How to Fold a US Flag: Step-by-Step

What You’ll Need

A US flag (any size, but cotton or polyester works best)
A clean, flat surface (table or floor) large enough to lay the flag flat
Two people (one at each end) for proper folding; one person can do it with practice

Step-by-Step

Lay the flag flat. Spread the flag completely on a clean, flat surface with the blue star field (canton) facing up. The canton should be at the top left when you’re looking at it from the front.
Fold the bottom stripe over. Take the bottom edge of the flag (the striped end) and fold it up over the blue field, bringing the bottom edge to meet the top edge. The flag should now be half its original length, with the stripes on top and the blue field underneath.
Fold it again. Fold the new bottom edge up to meet the top edge again. Now the flag is a quarter of its original length, and the blue field is on top, facing up.
Position the triangle fold. With the folded flag in front of you, the blue field should be on top, and the striped end should be on your left. The open corner (where the stripes meet the blue) should be at the bottom left.
Make the first triangle fold. Take the bottom left corner (the striped corner) and fold it up to meet the top edge, forming a triangle. The folded edge should be at the top, and the point should face left.
Fold the triangle over. Fold the triangle you just made over to the right, along the top edge. Now the point of the triangle faces right, and the folded edge is along the left side.
Continue folding triangles. Repeat the process: take the new left edge (which is now a folded edge) and fold it up to meet the top edge, forming another triangle. Then fold that triangle over to the right. Keep doing this—fold up, then over—working from left to right.
Keep the folds tight. As you fold, press each triangle flat with your hand to keep the folds crisp and even. This ensures the final triangle is neat and holds its shape.
Fold until only the blue field remains. Continue folding triangles until you reach the end of the flag. The last fold should tuck the remaining striped edge into the pocket formed by the previous folds.
Tuck the final edge. When you have just a small piece left, fold it over and tuck it into the open edge of the triangle. This secures the fold without any loose ends.
Shape the triangle. Gently press the entire triangle to flatten it and make sure all edges are aligned. The result should be a tight, symmetrical triangle with only the blue star field visible on both sides.
Store or display. Place the folded flag in a display case, shadow box, or storage container. If storing, keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.
Handle with respect. Always carry the folded flag with both hands, and never let it touch the ground. The triangle shape is meant to resemble a cocked hat, a symbol of the soldiers who served during the American Revolution.

Common Mistakes

Folding the flag in half lengthwise instead of widthwise. The first two folds must be lengthwise (bottom to top), not side to side. Folding widthwise will make the triangle folds impossible.
Letting the flag wrinkle. Wrinkles make the folds uneven and the final triangle messy. Always start with a smooth, flat flag.
Folding too quickly. Rushing leads to uneven triangles and a sloppy result. Take your time, especially on the first few folds.
Not tucking the final edge. If you don’t tuck the last piece in, the flag will unravel. Make sure the tuck is secure.
Folding with the blue field down. The blue field must be facing up at the start, or the final triangle will show the stripes instead of the stars.

Tips

Use a clean, ironed flag for the best results. If the flag is wrinkled, iron it on a low setting (if the fabric allows) before folding.
Practice with a small flag or a piece of cloth first if you’re new to the process. It helps to get the rhythm of the folds down.
Work on a table or counter that’s at a comfortable height. This reduces strain and helps you keep the flag flat.
If you’re folding alone, use a heavy book or weight to hold down the folded part while you work on the next section.
For a display case, measure the folded triangle to ensure it fits. Standard flags (3×5 ft) fold to about 13 inches along the base.

Troubleshooting

The triangle won’t stay folded

If the flag keeps unfolding, the folds are probably too loose. Refold, pressing each triangle firmly flat as you go. You can also use a small piece of tape on the inside of the final tuck (not on the flag itself) to hold it, but this is rarely needed if the folds are tight.

The final triangle is lopsided

This happens when the initial lengthwise folds aren’t even. Unfold and start over, making sure the bottom edge aligns exactly with the top edge on the first two folds. Also, keep the triangle folds consistent—each fold should be the same size.

The blue field is not visible on both sides

If you see stripes on one side, the flag was folded with the blue field facing down. Unfold and flip the flag so the canton is up before starting the lengthwise folds.

The flag is too thick to fold

Large flags (like 5×8 ft or bigger) can get bulky. If you’re struggling, have a second person help hold the folded sections. You can also use a flag with lighter fabric (like polyester) for easier folding.

The flag is dirty or stained

Do not fold a dirty flag—clean it first according to the care instructions on the label. Most cotton flags can be hand-washed with mild soap and air-dried. Never fold a wet flag, as it can mildew.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are there 13 folds in the flag folding ceremony?

The 13 folds are often said to represent the 13 original colonies, but they also symbolize various virtues like liberty, unity, and justice. The exact meaning varies by tradition, but the number 13 is a nod to the original states.

Can I fold the flag by myself?

Yes, but it’s easier with two people. If you’re alone, lay the flag on a table and use one hand to hold the folded part while the other makes the next fold. It takes practice but is doable.

What is the proper way to store a folded flag?

Store the folded flag in a cool, dry place, ideally in a display case or a breathable fabric bag. Avoid plastic bags, as they can trap moisture and cause mildew. Keep it out of direct sunlight to prevent fading.

Can I fold a flag that has been used outdoors?

Yes, but make sure it’s clean and dry first. If the flag is worn or torn, it should be retired properly (e.g., through a local VFW or scout troop) rather than folded and stored.

Is it disrespectful to fold the flag incorrectly?

No, but it’s best to follow the traditional method to show respect. If you make a mistake, simply unfold and start over. The key is to handle the flag with care and never let it touch the ground.

What should I do if the flag is too large to fold?

For very large flags (like those used on buildings), you can fold them in sections, but it’s easier to have multiple people help. Alternatively, you can fold it into a rectangle for storage, though the triangle is traditional for display.

Sources: US Department of Veterans Affairs. Menus and buttons can differ slightly by version. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.