Types of Flag Finishes: How Your Flag Attaches to the Flagpole

When flag makers talk about the way a flag is finished, we're simply referring to the part of the flag that attaches to the pole or enables the flag to otherwise be displayed. The most common flag finishes are header & grommets or pole sleeve & tab, however, oversized flags may include more durable D-rings or rope & thimble finishes. Nautical flags also have their own finishes, which allow multiple flags to be strung together to spell messages via nautical code signal protocol. Learn more about the various flag finishes and uses below.

Header & Grommets

Most popular / common way to attach a flag. Used on house mounted poles and in-ground flag poles. Generally made of brass and connect via snap clip or plastic grommet rings.

Pole Sleeve & Tab

Used on house mounted poles and also indoor flag sets. Usually made of leather or thick fabric, these are located in the neck of the sleeve and have a small slotted hole that will slip over a set screw or pole clip to keep the flag in place and stop it from sliding down the pole.

D-Rings

Found on some 8x12’ & larger flags, these more durable metal rings attach to larger sized snap clips.

Rope & Thimble

Found on some 8x12’ & larger flags, these more durable metal thimbles attach to larger sized snap clips. A piece of rope is sewn into the header along the pole side of the flag to lend additional strength to the flag when flown.

Snap & Ring

Used on some nautical flags to allow for quick interchange of flags in a marine setting. The flags can be strung together using the brass attachments to spell messages via nautical code signal protocol.

Ash & Toggle

Used on some nautical flags to allow for quick interchange of flags in a marine setting. The flags can be strung together using the ash wood and rope attachments to spell messages via nautical code signal protocol.

Fringed Flag

Used on indoor flags for official displays, parade flags and any ornamental flag you may want to create. Fringe can be produced in a few different color options to suit your flag best. Gold is the most common fringe color, but if you would like Red, White, Blue, Silver, Black or Green then we have you covered!

Help Choosing a Flag Finish

Still not sure which type of finish you need for your flag display? Our flag experts are here to help! Give us a call at 1-888-697-3524 or contact us online, and we'll recommend the best type of attachment based on how and where your flag will be displayed.