How to Fold a Flag
The folding of the American flag is typically done with two people as part of military tradition during ceremonial occasions or when it’s being prepared for display or storage. The precise folding is a show of honor and respect for the flag and it's done this way, with two people, to keep it taut and to ensure that it never touches the ground.
If there will be only one person folding the American flag, fold it on a flat surface, like a table top, and ensure that it doesn't touch the ground.
Step 1: Prepare the Flag
Before you begin, check the flag to ensure there aren’t any tears, holes or fraying, especially around the grommets. It’s important to keep the flag in good condition so that you can display it with the respect it deserves.
Hold the American flag waist high, right side up and parallel to the ground. Keep the fabric taut at all times.
Step 2: Fold 1 - Fold It in Half (the Symbol of Life)
For this first fold, fold the striped bottom half up lengthwise to cover up the union (also referred to as the canton or the blue field of stars).
Step 3: Fold 2 – Fold It Again (Eternal Life)
Fold again lengthwise with the union on the outside.
Step 4: Fold 3 - Begin the Triangular Folding (Honors Our Veterans)
Starting with the striped edge on the right side, bring the bottom corner up to meet the top edge of the flag, forming a triangle. Ensure that the top of the triangle lines up with the top of the flag.
Step 5: Fold 4 - Continue the Triangular Folding
Bring the corner of the folded edge of the flag inward so that the top of the triangle fold lines up with the top of the flag. Continue with that process until you’ve completed the length of the flag. You should have eight more folds.
Step 6: Folds 5 through 12 - The Final Fold
As you approach the end of the union, you’ll make one final fold. Tuck the remaining flag piece into the folds to secure it in place. A properly folded flag should only display the union and none of the red and white stripes.
There’s historical significance in folding the American flag in a triangle. It resembles the tricorn, a three-cornered hat worn by George Washington and his troops during the Revolutionary War.
How to Store a Flag
Once you've learned how to fold an American flag, you should also know how to store a flag. This could be temporary storage or storing for display purposes.
For short-term storage
- Store the American flag in a cool, dark and dry place to prevent fading, discoloration and mildew.
- The flag should be kept away from moisture and direct sunlight.
- Avoid using moth balls as this could damage the material.
- Store the flag in a display case designed to accommodate a properly folded flag.
For long-term storage
- Lay the American flag flat on a clean surface, covered with acid-free paper, a cotton cloth, muslin or tissue to prevent the fabric from yellowing and deteriorating. This also keeps the fabric from creasing.
- Roll and place the flag in an acid-free storage tube. Place silica gel packets inside the tube to absorb moisture and put the tube on an elevated shelf.