A. Flags are used for many different purposes by many different people. Some flags are used for outdoor display, others for memorial purposes, and still others for indoor display. Depending on its use, a flag can be made out of nylon, cotton, a polycotton blend, polyester, or a special kind of "spun" polyester. Common uses for these flags might be:
Nylon - the most durable and serviceable option. Nylon is durable, retains color well, flies in a breeze well, and is easily cleaned.
Cotton - a traditional and, to many, the most beautiful material. It has a natural feel and a pleasant "heft." However, like anything made of cotton, it is less durable and should therefore be used for decorative or ceremonial purposes.
Polycotton blend or polyester - these materials print very well and are attractive. Their best feature is economy, making them excellent for temporary use or where cost is an issue.
"Spun" polyester - a special, premium material that holds up well in windy or harsh conditions. Because it is spun, it has the feel of cotton, but its synthetic nature gives it the durability of nylon.
Remember to always treat a flag with common sense and respect, never fold it wet, regardless of material, and replace whenever it reaches a condition not befitting the symbol of the country.
Q. How do I determine what size flag I need?
A. The length of the flag should be at least ¼ the height of the pole. For example, a 40' pole requires a 6'x10' flag or larger. This guideline applies to flagpoles 20' and larger. Most residential flags are 3'x5' or 4'x6'. Most small industrial and commercial buildings use either a 5'x8' or 6'x10' flag. Major industrial, municipal and government buildings require 8'x12' and larger. However, the size of the pole is the determining factor.
Flagpole
Flag Size
20'
3'x5' or 4'x6'
25'
4'x6' or 5'x8'
30'
5'x8' or 6'x10'
40'-45'
6'x10' or 8'x12'
50'
8'x12' or 10'x15'
60'-65'
10'x15' or 10'x19'
70'-80'
10'x19' or 12'x18'
90'-100'
20'x30' or 30'x60'
Q. How do I clean my flag?
A. Synthetic material flags such as nylon or polyester can be machine washed with cold water and a mild detergent. These flags should be placed flat to dry. Natural fiber flags such as cotton and wool should be handled with greater care. Shining Star Flags & Bandanas recommends dry-cleaning.
Q. What is the proper way to display my flag?
A. Visit the Flag Etiquette section of our website, the information there covers most situations. If you do not see the information you need you can contact the National Flag Foundation, their number is 412-261-1776 or you can visit their website at www.americanflags.org.
Q. Is it proper to display an American flag with fewer than 50 stars?
A. Yes, as long as the flag was once an official U.S. flag it will always remain so. Even the historical U.S. Flag known as the 13-star Betsy Ross is still considered an official American flag. Click here to see the official flags of the United States.
Q. How long will a flag last?
A. There is no exact answer. The U.S. Government generally expects a nylon or cotton bunting flag to last approximately 90 days, based on daily usage from sunrise to sunset - but not during periods of inclement weather. Tests have shown that in some cases a flag flown 24 hours a day will last only one-fourth as long as one flown during the daylight hours only. Regardless of how well it is constructed, the flag is a piece of cloth and will sooner or later succumb to the elements. However, it has been well documented that reasonably good care can contribute greatly to longer life.
Q. What is the ColorFast Guarantee?
A. The ColorFast Guarantee is offered on select products and is limited to replacement of the flag only. No other damages, incidental or otherwise, are covered. No purchase price refunds or shipping costs are covered. Colorfast refers to colors retaining their base colors. Some color lightening, due to the exposure of the sun, is natural, and will not affect the usability of the flag and therefore is not covered under this guarantee. Fabric tears and fraying, as a result of high winds and other climatic conditions, as well as torn flags and normal wear, are not covered by this guarantee.
GENERAL
Q. What is your shipping policy?
A. Please click on our Shipping link for shipping information.
Q. What is your return policy?
A. Please click on our Returns link for information relating to our return policy.
Q. What payment types do you accept?
A. We accept VISA, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, and PayPal. You are not required to have a PayPal account to pay by credit card.
Q. Is your site secure and is my information protected?
A. Yes, all communications of data to and from this site are protected by SSL 128-bit encryption technology. In addition, we do not use any of your personally identifiable information except as set forth in our Privacy Policy.
Q. Are all of your products Made in the U.S.A.?
A. All of our flags and banners are 100% Made in the U.S.A. A majority of our bandanas are also made in the U.S.A.; however, due to the high cost of manufacturing, our bandana manufacturer imports some of its bandanas from abroad. In order to provide our customers a wider range of choices, we have made a business decision to offer some imported bandanas. Notwithstanding the foregoing, we will NEVER sell any U.S., State or Military flags or banners that are made outside of the U.S.A.
Q. Do you sell skullcaps?
A. We do not currently offer skullcaps on our site but plan to add them in the near future. In the meantime, we can special order skullcaps for any customer who desires them. Minimum order requirements may apply. If interested, please email us at sales@shiningstarflags.com.
Q. Do you sell custom flags, bandanas and skullcaps?
A. Yes, we do. However, given the price differences depending on the quantity ordered and the number of colors requested, we do not offer the ability to order custom items online. If you are interested in obtaining more information and a quote on ordering custom flags, bandanas or skull caps, please email us at sales@shiningstarflags.com and we will contact you promptly.
Q. Is it bandana or bandanna?
A. Well, actually, it's both. Bandana may be spelled correctly both ways. So, you may see websites use bandanas or bandannas. We just choose to use the form "bandana."
