If you have ever wondered why some flags last for months while others fall apart in a few weeks, the answer is usually fabric. The textile and how it is finished matter just as much as the design.
This guide explains the main flag fabrics you will come across, what they are best for and how to choose the right one for your use.
Knitted polyester
Knitted polyester is the workhorse fabric for modern printed flags.
- Lightweight, usually around 110gsm.
- Good show through, so the design is visible in reverse on the back.
- Flies well in light winds because it is not too heavy.
- Ideal for general purpose outdoor flags.
A high quality knitted polyester flag, finished properly and used sensibly, is a solid choice for most homes, businesses and public buildings.
Woven polyester
Woven polyester is heavier and denser than knitted polyester. When you see MOD standard or heavy duty flags, they are usually woven polyester.
- Heavier fabric, often 155 gsm or more.
- Much more robust in strong winds.
- Has a more traditional, premium feel.
- Often used for sewn flags and high specification printed flags.
- Because it is heavier, woven polyester needs a reasonable wind to fly, but it will stand up to harsher conditions and more continuous use.
Standard Lightweight polyester and budget fabrics
Cheaper flags are often sold simply as polyester with no real detail about the textile. They usually feel very thin and shiny.
- Very low weight and poor tear strength.
- Colours can fade quickly in sunlight.
- Often have low quality stitching and finishing as well.
They may be fine for very occasional use at a one-off event, but they are not suitable for regular outdoor display.
Ceremonial textiles
Ceremonial and indoor flags are usually made from different fabrics to outdoor flags. Common choices include:
- Matt polyester - reduces glare, ideal for churches, halls and indoor displays.
- Satin effect polyester - gives a lustrous finish that looks rich under artificial light.
- Poly Cotton -matt finish, ideal for parades, churches, halls and indoor displays.
These textiles are chosen more for appearance than rugged outdoor performance. They can be used outdoors for short, formal events but should not be left exposed to the weather long term.
Sewn vs printed on different fabrics
Both knitted and woven polyester are used for either printed or sewn.
- Printed on knitted polyester - excellent for detailed artwork and general use.
- Printed on woven polyester - heavier option for more demanding sites.
- Sewn on woven polyester - traditional, premium option for simple flags with blocks of colour.
When choosing between them, think about design complexity, budget, how often the flag will fly and how harsh your weather is.
Why fabric weight is not everything
A heavier fabric is not always automatically better. What matters is matching the textile to the job.
- Light textile on a sheltered site with occasional use can be perfectly adequate.
- Medium to heavy textile is sensible for exposed or 24/7 flying.
- Very heavy fabric on a small, low pole in a sheltered garden may simply hang and rarely fly properly.
- Also remember that stitching, heading tape, eyelets and finishing quality make a huge difference to real life durability.
Summary
When choosing a flag, ask yourself:
- Is this flag for general outdoor use, a very exposed site, or indoor and ceremonial use?
- Do I need a lightweight fabric that flies easily, or a heavier one that will take more punishment?
- Am I paying for decent textile and finishing, or just the cheapest possible product
Understanding the differences between knitted polyester, woven polyester and ceremonial textiles helps you choose a flag that looks right, lasts longer and does the job you actually need it to do.
0 comments