Folding an American flag is pretty simple once you know the right steps. While the U.S. Flag Code doesn't require a specific way to fold the flag, the triangle fold is a long-standing tradition that keeps the blue field and stars on the outside.
In this guide, we'll walk you through the traditional 2-person method, show you how to fold a flag by yourself, and explain the traditional meanings behind the 13 folds.
How to Fold an American Flag Step by Step
Two people make folding an American flag much easier. Have each person hold one short end of the flag at about waist height, keeping the fabric straight and level.
Hold the flag horizontally with the blue field in the upper left corner as you face it.
Try to keep the flag from touching the ground while you fold it. The U.S. Flag Code says the flag should be handled in a way that keeps it from being soiled or damaged.
This folding method works well for standard flag sizes, including our 3’x5’ American flag, 4’x6’ American flag, and 5’x8’ American flag.
1. Fold the Flag in Half Lengthwise
Bring the bottom edge of the flag up to the top edge, keeping the blue field on the outside. Make sure the edges line up.
2. Fold the Flag in Half Lengthwise Again
Fold the flag in half lengthwise again. The blue field should remain on the outside.
3. Start the First Triangle at the Striped End
Now the triangular folds begin. Start at the end opposite the blue field and bring the corner of the folded edge up to the open edge to make a triangle.
4. Continue Folding Toward the Blue Field
Fold the triangle over again, then continue making the same triangle fold toward the blue field. Be sure to keep each fold tight and the edges lined up. This is where small mistakes can add up. If one triangle is loose or uneven, the final fold may not sit flat.
5. Tuck the Final Fold
When you reach the blue field, you'll have a small section of fabric left.
Tuck that section into the pocket created by the previous folds. The finished flag should form a neat triangle with only the blue field and stars visible.
If you can see red or white stripes after the final fold, go back a few steps and tighten the last few triangles.
How to Fold an American Flag by Yourself
Folding a flag with two people may be easier, but you can still fold one by yourself.
A clean, large table gives you more control than trying to hold a full-size flag in the air. Make sure the surface is clean and dry, then lay the flag flat with the blue union in the upper left.
Follow the same basic sequence:
- Fold the lower striped section over the blue field.
- Fold the flag in half lengthwise again, keeping the blue field on the outside.
- Start the triangular folds at the striped end.
- Continue making tight triangles toward the blue field.
- Tuck the remaining fabric into the final fold.
For a large flag that's longer than your table, fold the first few triangles, then slide the folded section along the table as you continue. Keep the fabric clean and dry throughout the process.
Once the flag is folded, our flag care guide explains how to clean, store, and care for your American flag.
What Do the 13 Folds of the American Flag Mean?
You may have heard that each fold of the American flag has a specific meaning. These are part of a ceremonial tradition and not the official U.S. Flag Code.
The National Flag Foundation notes that different honor guards may use slightly different versions of the traditional recitation, but the most widely shared version assigns these meanings to the 13 folds.
| Fold | Traditional meaning |
|---|---|
| 1 | A symbol of life |
| 2 | Belief in eternal life |
| 3 | Honor and remembrance of the veteran being laid to rest and those who gave their lives in service |
| 4 | Faith in a higher power during times of difficulty |
| 5 | A tribute to the country |
| 6 | Where our hearts lie, as expressed in the Pledge of Allegiance |
| 7 | A tribute to the armed forces |
| 8 | Those who have died and the mothers who remember them |
| 9 | Womanhood and the faith, love, loyalty, and devotion associated with it |
| 10 | Fathers who have given their sons and daughters in defense of the country |
| 11 | In Jewish tradition, the lower portion of the seal of King David and King Solomon |
| 12 | In Christian tradition, eternity and the Holy Trinity |
| 13 | The stars facing upward, recalling the national motto, "In God We Trust" |
These meanings are commonly recited during military funeral ceremonies, but they aren't required for every flag folding ceremony.
Common American Flag Folding Mistakes to Avoid
A few small mistakes can make the final triangle uneven.
Here’s a quick list of things to avoid:
- Starting at the wrong end. The triangular folds begin at the striped end, opposite the blue field. Work toward the union.
- Making loose folds. Keep each triangle tight. A small gap at the beginning can make the final folds difficult to tuck.
- Letting the flag get dirty or wet. Make sure the flag is clean and completely dry before folding it for storage. Moisture can lead to mildew.
- Trying to force a worn flag into a perfect triangle. Old fabric that's badly faded, frayed, or damaged may no longer hold a crisp fold.
If the flag won't hold a clean fold even when you're following the steps, check the condition of the fabric. A worn fly end or weakened fabric may be the reason.
When Is a Flag Too Worn to Display?
A flag that's badly faded, torn, frayed, or otherwise damaged may eventually reach the point where it's no longer suitable for display.
The U.S. Flag Code says that when a flag is no longer a fitting emblem for display, it should be destroyed in a dignified way.
You don't have to handle the retirement yourself. Many American Legion posts, VFW posts, and Scouting organizations conduct flag retirement ceremonies and accept worn American flags.
If you're unsure whether your flag is ready to retire, our post on How Often Should You Replace Your Outdoor American Flag has more information about flag care and retirement.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you fold an American flag for a funeral or shadow box?
Use the same traditional triangular folding method described above. Note that a military burial flag is commonly 5 by 9.5 feet, so it may require an additional lengthwise fold before you begin making the triangles.
For a shadow box, check the case dimensions before folding the flag. The finished triangle needs to fit securely inside the display.
Can I fold an American flag for storage using the traditional 13-fold method?
Yes. The traditional triangle fold works for everyday storage as well as ceremonial use. Before folding, make sure the flag is clean and completely dry. Once folded, store it somewhere clean, dry, and protected from direct sunlight.
Does the U.S. Flag Code require the triangular fold?
No. The Flag Code provides rules for how the flag should be handled and displayed, but it doesn't prescribe a specific folding method. The triangular fold is a long-standing American tradition published by organizations including the American Legion and the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Why is the American flag folded into a triangle?
The triangular shape is part of the traditional method of folding the flag. The American Legion says the finished shape resembles a cocked, three-cornered hat associated with soldiers who served under George Washington and others during the Revolutionary era.
