The national flag of the United States of America, commonly known as the American flag, is a source of pride for Americans. When not on display, the flag must be folded into the shape of a triangle. After you have removed the flag, fold it lengthwise. Then fold it into a triangle for display or storage.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Fold the flag lengthwise
Step 1. Lower the flag slowly along the pole, without letting it touch the ground
Loosen the line and pull the strings to bring the flag back to the ground. Do it slowly and in a reverent manner, showing respect for the flag. Grab the flag as it gets closer to the ground. Slide the flag off the line and then secure the line in place on the flagpole.
It is best to fold the flag close to the flagpole to reduce the risk of dropping all or part of it
Step 2. Make sure that no part of the flag touches the ground at any time
Letting the flag touch the ground is a sign of disrespect against the flag. When folding the flag, keep it completely off the ground, either working with a partner or folding it on a clean, dry surface.
For example, you could put the flag upside down on the dining room table
Step 3. Place the flag on a table if you are working alone
The flag must be face up with the blue field at the top. Make sure the flag is smooth and wrinkle free.
If you are working with a partner, keep the flag parallel to the ground at waist height. Each of you will hold one corner of the flag
Step 4. Fold the flag so that the bottom stripes are on the star field
You will need to bring up the bottom edge, then you will need to align it with the top edge. The two edges will meet, while the bottom will form a crease. Check that the flag is completely smooth, without unevenness or wrinkles.
If you are working with a partner, adjust your hands so that each partner is holding the layered corners with one hand and the center crease with the other
Step 5. Bring the folded edge to the top edge to create a second fold
At this point, the star field should be visible on both sides of the folded flag. Check that both sides of the flag have the blue field on the left and the stripes on the right.
If you are working with a partner, each person will need to hold 2 corners and a folded edge with one hand. With your other hand, you will need to hold the bottom folded edge
Part 2 of 3: Fold the Flag into a Triangle Shape
Step 1. Create a triangle crease by folding the striped corner to the top edge
The outer edge of the folded flag should line up with the top edge. The fold itself will look like a triangle. Check the flag for wrinkles.
Each side of the triangle must be the same length
Step 2. Fold the pointed corner to form a second triangle
The edge of the first triangle should remain aligned with the edge of the folded flag. The flag should look like a rectangle again.
Make sure the crease is wrinkle free
Step 3. Continue making triangle-shaped folds along the length of the flag
In total, you will need to make 13 folds, including the first 2. In the last fold, only the blue field will be visible.
- The 13 folds symbolize the original 13 colonies. Additionally, each fold has a special meaning, as explained here:
- Each triangle should be of a uniform size.
Step 4. Tuck the end of the flag into the open crease
The edge of the blue field can go into the open crease on the side of the triangle. Only the blue field should be visible on both sides of the flag.
The triangle shape is used to honor the 3-corner hat that is traditionally worn by revolutionaries who fought for American independence
Part 3 of 3: Save the flag
Step 1. Display the flag in a triangle-shaped case
Many people love to display the flag, especially if it is a flag in honor of a loved one. You can place the folded flag in a container designed to display the flag. This is a respectful way to display the flag with honor.
- For example, families of veterans often receive a flag after the veteran's funeral. This flag will be placed over the coffin, then folded to present to the family. You can store this flag in a display case to remember your family member.
- You can buy a pencil case online or at a store that sells flags.
Step 2. Store the flag in a clean, dry place
You can place it in a drawer or closet. Keep it separate from other items so it doesn't get mixed up with your daily linens.
It is a good idea to put the flag in a plastic case or container before storing it. This will protect it from dirt and dust
Step 3. Make sure the flag is securely in place
Place the flag in a place where it will not fall or get mixed up with any other type of table linen. You can put it in a safe drawer or keep it in its case at all times. If you are displaying the flag, make sure it is hung correctly or the display case is on a sturdy shelf.
- Prevent the flag from falling out of its storage place or getting damaged. You will disrespect the flag if it gets dirty or damaged during storage.
- Similarly, it prevents the flag from falling out of place and hitting the ground.
Advice
- Always display the flag correctly.
- Always treat the flag with respect.
- If the flag is damaged, be sure to dispose of it properly.
- Keep the flag clean and safe. Never let it get ripped, dirty or damaged.