Crest Flag Printing

The Flag Shape That Reads From Anywhere

A crest flag is vertically symmetrical — it curves up from the pole and back down again, so the graphic keeps its shape whether the wind is with it or against it.

That's the practical difference from a feather or teardrop. Those shapes have a directional sweep; a crest doesn't. In a gusty spot it looks composed rather than flapping.

Four sizes up to 5140mm, with collapsible poles and a carry bag included. Free UK delivery.

Sizes

Ground clearance matters more than people expect. On the Extra Large the graphic starts 1250mm up, which clears parked cars and standing crowds — useful at an event, less so if you want the message readable at eye level.

Left-Facing or Right-Facing?

The one thing to get right before ordering, because it isn't interchangeable.

Right-facing puts the pole and base on the left of the graphic. Left-facing puts them on the right.

Choose based on where people approach from. If foot traffic comes from the left, a right-facing flag presents the graphic first and the pole second.

Each orientation has its own artwork template and they can't be swapped. If you're producing a reversed version of an existing design, flip the template shape, not the design content — flipping the artwork itself gives you a mirrored, unreadable graphic.

Single or Double Sided

Single sided is printed on one face, and dye-sublimation gives 80–90% show-through on the reverse. In practice the back is legible but softer — fine for most positions, and considerably cheaper.

Double sided is two printed flags with a blockout membrane between them, stitched as one unit. Full colour density both sides with no show-through.

One important caveat on double-sided flags: they're substantially heavier, and flag bases aren't designed to carry that weight. Bases are not covered by warranty when used with a double-sided flag. If you're going double sided, a ground spike into soft earth is the safer anchor.

Flag Polyester or AirMesh?

Flag Polyester is the standard. Denser colour, crisper print, and the better-looking flag in normal conditions.

AirMesh Polyester is perforated, letting wind pass through rather than catching it. Colour is slightly less dense as a result, but on an exposed site — a coastal forecourt, an open field, a windy retail park — it takes considerably less punishment and lasts longer.

Sheltered site: flag polyester. Exposed site: AirMesh.

What's Included

• Printed flag with black elasticated sleeve
• High-performance aluminium and GRP poles, collapsible into sections
• Carry bag for pole and graphic

A base is not included. Choose one to suit your flag size and the ground you're standing it on — see our flag bases and accessories. On grass or soil a ground spike is best; on hard standing you'll need a weighted cross-brace or parasol base.

Wind, Weather and Lifespan

Worth being straight about this, because flags are consumables rather than permanent fixtures.

Take the flag down above Beaufort 4 — that's 13–18mph, a moderate breeze with small branches moving. Heavy rain combined with wind is worse than wind alone, because a soaked flag is significantly heavier and puts real strain on the pole.

Realistic lifespan is around six months of regular flying. That depends entirely on exposure and hours in the air — a flag out every weekend in a sheltered forecourt will outlast one flying continuously on an exposed roadside.

Air pollution greys white areas over time, and UV gradually fades the fabric. Position matters: a flag beside a busy road discolours faster than one on a quiet site.

Flags are machine washable at 30°C without detergent. Dry completely before storing, or you'll get mildew.

Check the flag isn't catching on its own pole or anything nearby, and don't site poles too close together — a flag that snags will tear.

Replacement Graphics

The poles and base outlast the graphic several times over. Replacement flags can be ordered on their own, so a worn or out-of-date graphic means a new flag rather than a new kit.

Artwork Requirements

Use the template matching your exact size and orientation — each size differs in shape and proportion, so a medium template won't scale to a large.

• Supply at the exact size of the template
• Fonts outlined, images embedded
• Important content inside the safe area line — background should run all the way to the bleed line
• No template guide lines included or flattened into the file
• No crop marks, bleed marks, colour bars or registration marks
• PDF preferred, AI or EPS also accepted
• Double sided: supply both front and back designs

The template marks where the elasticated sleeve sits — keep logos and text clear of it, since that strip wraps round the pole and isn't visible.

Every file is checked by a real person before printing, so obvious problems get flagged. We don't make changes or fixes to artwork — files should be supplied print-ready.

Turnaround & Delivery

Production takes 3–4 working days. Turnaround covers production only — delivery is on top of that.

Standard UK delivery is free on all crest flag orders, whatever the size or quantity. Collection from our Burnley production facility is also available.

Other shapes: feather flags for the largest usable print area, teardrop flags for a compact rounded shape, and fin flags for the beach and aquatic look.

FAQs

What sizes are available?
Four: Small 2560mm, Medium 3150mm, Large 4080mm and Extra Large 5140mm standing height.

What's the minimum order?
One. Order a single flag or a set.

Is a base included?
No. Poles and a carry bag are included, but the base is chosen separately to suit your flag size and the ground surface.

Should I choose left-facing or right-facing?
Right-facing puts the pole on the left of the graphic; left-facing puts it on the right. Pick based on which direction people approach from. Each uses a different artwork template.

Can I see the design on the back of a single-sided flag?
Yes, at around 80–90% show-through. It's legible but softer than the printed face. Double sided gives full density on both sides.

Why aren't bases warranted with double-sided flags?
Double-sided flags are considerably heavier, and the bases aren't designed for that load. If you're going double sided, a ground spike is the more reliable anchor.

How much wind can it take?
It's rated to Beaufort 4, or 13–18mph. Above that, take it down — particularly in heavy rain, since a wet flag adds significant weight.

How long will it last?
Around six months of regular flying, depending on exposure. UV and air pollution both take their toll over time.

Can I wash it?
Yes, at 30°C with no detergent. Let it dry completely before storing.

Can I order a replacement graphic on its own?
Yes. The poles and base outlast the flag, so you can replace just the graphic.

Is delivery really free?
Yes. Standard UK delivery is included on all crest flag orders.