Our fully sewn Union flag, also known as the Union Jack, is made from high-quality materials sourced in the UK. Flat-felled interlocking stitch is employed for all seams, combining the 31 individual pieces of the Union. Our flags are manufactured here in the UK, specifically for outdoor use
Key Features
- We use nylon-bonded thread throughout the sewing process
- Our flags are made from 155 gsm MoD-approved woven polyester, which is the strongest fabric for outdoor use
- The fly end is strengthened with four rows of stitching
- Extra-wide fly end hem for durability
- 100% white header tape to enhance their strength. Each sewn flag includes a rope and toggle unless otherwise requested.
- Colour-fast fabric, unlike printed versions that are liable to fade
The correct proportions are 1:2 for maritime use and 2:3 for land use. However, many land establishments use the 1:2 measurement.
We still employ traditional methods for manufacturing all our in-house sewn Unions. We use vat-dyed woven polyester, which produces deep and long-lasting colours, unlike the printed version of our national flag. This method is almost certainly one of the best for ensuring colourfastness.
| Flag Size | Metric | Price | Flagpole Height (Ground) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1yd | 91cm x 45cm | £46.00 | 3mt (10') |
| 1.5yd | 137cm x 68cm | £59.00 | 4-5mt (15') |
| 5' x 3' | 152cm x 91cm | £69.00 | 6-8mt (20-25') |
| 2yd - 6' x 3' | 183cm x 91cm | £75.00 | 6-8mt (20-25') |
| 2yd - 6' x 4' | 183cm x 120cm | £89.00 | 6-8mt (20-25') |
| 2.5yd | 229cm x 114cm | £95.00 | 9-10mt (25'-30') |
| 3yd | 274cm x 137cm | £125.00 | 11-12mt (30'-40') |
| 4yd | 365cm x 183cm | £189.00 | 13-16mt ( 42-52') |
Flag size for pole height is a recommendation only.
No VAT to add to prices listed
To place an order: Telephone 01752 696 696 ~ or email: sales@alphaflags.co.uk~ or use contact form
Manufactured from 155 gsm MoD-approved woven polyester, the strongest flag fabric for outdoor flags. Nylon-bonded thread is used throughout the sewing process, and 100% White header tape provides extra strength.
See here for other fixtures and fittings.
Added extra: Anti-fray netting may help prevent fraying if your flags are exposed or in a windy location. This can be added at an extra cost on request.
Proportions
Orientation
The ‘British Flag,’ as it was known at the time, was introduced by King James VI and I of Scotland and England. The initial design combined the St. Andrew’s Cross and the St. George’s Cross. For nearly 200 years, this design remained unchanged until it was transformed into its current form by King George III in 1801. This amendment added the St. Patrick’s Cross of Ireland to the existing national flag of the United Kingdom, resulting in the iconic red, white, and blue Union flag now recognised worldwide as the flag of the United Kingdom.
Printed Unions are popular due to the lower price, but have a shorter lifespan. This is why there is still a high demand for fully stitched Union flags.
Although the design seems straightforward, completely sewn Union flags are actually quite complex and labour-intensive.
We take great pride in following the traditional methods used to create the national flag of the United Kingdom.
All fabric exposed to the elements will eventually fray. To prolong the lifespan of your flag, please follow the advice below.
Union Flag care and maintenance
Woven / Spun Polyester: Typically 155 gsm. Often referred to as MoD grade, this is the most durable material for making flags. No other fabric surpasses its strength-to-weight ratio.
It is essential to ensure that the flag can fly freely without striking or coming into constant contact with any obstructions, such as walls, trees, foliage, or a rough pole surface.
It is also important to consider whether the flag will constantly be exposed to harsh or extreme weather conditions, such as high winds, heavy rain or heavily polluted urban environments.
Flying an excessively large flag in bad weather will dramatically reduce life expectancy.
How long a flag will last is an impossible question to answer, as it depends upon many factors.
It is not recommended to fly your flag continuously, as this can reduce its lifespan. Typically, a flag flown continuously 24/7 may only last approximately 3 months.
Left out indefinitely, a flag will eventually succumb to the elements
Hand-wash or gently machine-wash at 30 degrees using a mild detergent. If unsure, consult your flagmaker.
Once a flag has become too dirty, it won’t be easy to clean
- Never fly in inclement weather or strong winds
- Flags should always be thoroughly dry before folding and storage
- Flags should be taken down at night and in inclement weather
Your flag will last much longer if it is properly cared for.
You can always re-hem the outer fly edge to extend the life of your flag when it eventually becomes worn. Cut away the frayed edge and hem with a suitable sewing machine.
Additional information
| Although most manufacturers use specific shades of red, white and blue, according to the College of Arms, any shade is acceptable. However, this applies only if the colours are clearly identifiable. |
Other British Flags associated with the Union Flag
Find out more about the flag of the United Kingdom
Flags that incorporate the Union Flag
Many overseas flags feature the Union Flag (Union Jack) because they are, or once were, British colonies, territories, or dominions. The flag reflects historical ties to Britain, membership in the Commonwealth, or use of the traditional blue or red ensign.
Establishments that fly the Union
| Houses of Parliament: Flown continuously from January 2010 Local Councils: Many choose to fly the Union, adhering to government regulations Civic Buildings: Includes libraries, council buildings, town halls and more Police Stations and Law Courts Hotels and Conference Halls Stately Homes and Castles |
| Rules when flying the Union Flag The Union Flag should be displayed in a dignified manner and should take precedence over any other flag. While it is not illegal to use the flag as a cover, it is strongly discouraged. However, it is used as a coffin cover for personnel linked to the military or government. The Union Flag must be displayed correctly. The widest white diagonal stripe in the top left-hand canton must be at the top. This white stripe is part of the St Andrew’s cross, which takes precedence over the St Patrick’s cross. The Union must be flown as a single flag per flagpole. Do not fly the Union upside down, as this is viewed as a signal of distress. It is disrespectful to fly the Union if worn, damaged, or soiled. |
Unions in the news
Click here for interesting news articles about the Union Flag