American Flag Parts: A Complete Breakdown of Every Component
In order to help you choose your outdoor American flag, or keep you "in the know" while designing your custom flag, knowing the parts of a flag is essential.
This guide covers every component of a properly constructed U.S. flag — from the reinforced fly end to the bright white header — and explains how each part contributes to its function and durability.
Key Components of the American Flag
A. Header
The header is the reinforced binding along the hoist side of the flag. Typically made from heavy-duty cotton duck or synthetic canvas, it provides a secure foundation for the grommets or other flag attachments. The header protects the flag from tearing under the strain of wind by using brass grommets to take the brunt of the tension.
- What we use: White polyester canvas (for most flags)
- Used with: Grommets, rope & thimble, snap clips, or pole sleeves
Learn more about flag attachments here
B. Grommets
Grommets are circular, rust-resistant metal rings (usually brass or stainless steel) inserted into the header. They allow the flag to be attached securely to a pole using snap hooks, flag rings, or rope. Grommets are standard on flags up to 8x12’, while larger flags may use D-rings or rope and thimble.
Want to learn more about flag sizes for different poles? Visit our flag to flagpole ratio page.
C. Canton (Union or Field)
On the U.S. flag, the canton is the blue field in the upper left corner, containing 50 white stars. It's also called the "union" because it symbolizes the unity of the 50 states. On some historical or state flags, the canton may feature other symbols or colors.
- Construction: Embroidered stars (standard on most U.S. flags), or printed stars (on economy models)
- Symbolism: Stars represent the states of the union; blue = stands for vigilance, perseverance, and justice
D. Fly End
The fly end is the edge of the flag farthest from the pole. It’s the part that flutters and endures the most wear and tear. Quality flags feature reinforced stitching here — such as 4 rows of lock stitching — to prevent premature fraying.
We like to go one step further with our industry leading X-Box corner stitching.
Interested in getting your own durable flag? Check out our American flags here.
E. Fly
The fly is the entire length of fabric extending from the hoist to the fly end. It determines the width of the flag. This part of the flag needs to be lightweight enough to catch wind but strong enough to resist tearing. Nylon and polyester are the most common materials used here at Gettysburg Flag Works.
F. Hoist
The hoist is the vertical edge of the flag that attaches to the flagpole. It’s reinforced with the header and may include grommets, tabs, rope, or a pole sleeve depending on how the flag is designed to be flown. On large flags (8x12’ and above), the hoist may include internal rope sewn into the header and galvanized thimbles for added strength.
Additional Flag Elements You Might See
Stitching Patterns
High-quality flags like our Battle-Tough® nylon and Steadfast polyester flags use lock stitching to prevent unraveling — especially on the fly end and between stripes. Cheaper flags often use chain stitching, which unravels quickly.
Check out our American made flag vs an imported flag here. We did a wind test that went for 1000 hours!
Flag Fringe
Often used for ceremonial, indoor, or military display flags, gold fringe adds a decorative edge. Fringed flags typically have a pole sleeve finish and are used with indoor floor stands. Learn more about indoor flags here.
See Our Flag Specifications in Action
Explore our complete guide to American flags to see how these parts come together in our 100% American-made flags.
Still Unsure What You Need?
Our experts are happy to help! Whether you're building a custom flag or selecting an above standard U.S. flag, call us at 1-888-697-3524 or contact us online to get personalized support.