How to Fold a 5-by-9.5 American Flag

The American flag is a symbol of the United States. It embodies the country, with each aspect of its design representing a part of the the national character and history. Its 50 stars stand for the 50 states, while the 13 red and white stripes symbolize the 13 original colonies. The flag should be treated with respect, and it is flown and displayed in accordance to strict regulations. When taken down, it must be folded and stored in a certain manner.

Instructions

1. Find two people. To fold an American flag properly, two people are required. Let each person take hold of the two corners on the short sides. Spread the flag out between you as you are facing each other. The flag should be face up, with the field of stars in the upper left-hand corner.

2. Take the side of the flag with the stripes and fold it toward the upper part of the flag. The upper part of the American flag is the part with the stars. Fold the flag in half again, the same way so that the field of stars is again on the top.

3. Clasp the striped end of the American flag and fold it upwards into a triangle. The long side of the triangle should face the field of stars. Take the pointed end and fold it down. Take the corner at the bottom of the striped end and fold it up. Repeat this process, alternating corners as you go. Keep folding until you end with only the field of stars showing. There should be a folded triangle of stars on the right and a square of stars on the left. The base of the triangle should be on the lower portion of the flag.

4. Grab the upper corner of the square are of stars and fold it down into a triangle. The whole flag should resemble a single triangle divided down the middle from top to bottom. From this same end, fold the new triangle inside the other triangle. Tuck this end neatly inside the other. The 5 x 9.5-foot American flag should be in the form of a triangular pouch. You may now store the flag properly.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not let the flag touch the ground while you are folding it. It is is considered improper for the flag to ever touch the ground.