Feather & Beach Flags

Get seen from the road

Feather flags, also called beach flags or teardrop flags, are tall printed flags on a flexible pole. They are visible from far away and they move in the breeze, catching the eye. Car dealers, garden centres, cafes, gyms, new shops and event organisers use them when they need to be spotted from a distance.

Shapes

• Feather has a straight edge and a curved tip, giving a large area for lettering.
• Teardrop has a rounded shape that holds its form in low wind. Its print area is generally smaller.
• Rectangular gives you the biggest usable area and a neater look.

Common heights run from about 2 to 5 metres. Larger flags are visible for much greater distances but need sturdier bases and more space. Measure your site and check any overhead obstructions.

Choosing the right base

Base	Use on
Spike	Grass and soft ground
Cross base with water bag	Hard surfaces
Heavy plate	Pavements, forecourts
Car wheel plate	Car parks and dealerships

Flags can act like a sail, so the base must match the conditions. If winds are strong, take your flag down, as a blown-over flag could hurt someone.

Print and design

Flags are usually printed on knitted polyester, which is light and dries quickly. Single-sided flags show a mirror image on the reverse, with the colour showing through. That is usually fine for logos, but text reads backwards from one side. Double-sided flags are more expensive, but they can be read properly from both sides.

Keep your message short: one or two words, set vertically, in big, bold letters. "Open", "Sale" or your brand name work well. Because the flag moves, small text simply cannot be read. Allow space for the pole sleeve, which uses up a strip at one side.

Permissions and care

If you are putting a flag on a public footway, you will need permission, just as you do for pavement signs. Check with your council or landlord. To extend its life, bring your flag inside overnight and during strong winds, as constant movement wears the edges. Wash in cool water, and let it dry naturally.

Ordering

Tell us the size, shape and base, and send your artwork. We set up the design free of charge when we print. Flags are made to order, so please allow extra time before an event. If you already have a pole and base, we can often replace just the printed flag, so tell us the make and the size.