How to Fold an American Flag

Folding the American flag properly exhibits decorum and respect.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• American Flags

1. Have two people stand on either end of the flag, holding a corner in each hand.

2. Fold the flag in half twice, width-wise.

3. Beginning at the striped end, fold one corner into the opposite side of the flag, forming a triangle.

4. Repeat this triangular folding until only a small strip of the star field shows.

5. Tuck this strip into the triangle.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep the flag from touching the ground while folding.

[sweetpea63]

on 8/30/2009 I was wondering how they did this

on 9/7/2006 If you have a large flag, make sure you have at least 3 people on all sides so that you may have an even holding. Have the middle person on two (width) sides hold it up and bring the two edges in to center (should now be folded in quarters), then turn the flag to the right and fold it once more in half. Then start at the stripped end, and make crisp triangular folds (use your arm if you must). Tuck the end in to the last fold and you should have a crisp, even triangle. Hold it close to your chest as you retreat.

on 2/1/2006 One should make every effort to see to it that the US flag does not touch the ground. If it does touch the ground, however, remedy the situation and ensure that it is not dirty. Although you are certainly welcome to retire a flag anytime that you feel prudent, it is not a necessity of flag etiquette to have the flag retired.

on 11/22/2005 If the flag touches the ground it needs to be retired properly. Please give it to a local Civil Air Patrol (official auxiliary of the United States Air Force) or give it to a Boy Scout's troop to be retired.

on 11/22/2005 When making the two width-wise folds, be sure to keep the stars on the outside. If you do this, you will have a triangular field of stars when you are finished folding the flag.