American Flag Calculator
Calculate the size of the flag of the United States given the desired width or length. The calculator also shows the size and position of the Union, stars, and stripes that meet the standard dimensions for the American flag.
Result:
Flag Dimensions
Element Dimensions & Positioning
| Element | Dimension |
|---|
How to Calculate the Size of the United States Flag
The size and proportions of the American flag and the elements on it such as the Union, stars, and stripes are governed by executive order 10834 dated August 21, 1959. Signed by Dwight David Eisenhower, the executive order sets the standard dimensions, standard proportions, and positions for the flag elements.
To find the size of the flag or a part of the flag, multiply the proportion for the element from the table by the desired width, or hoist, of the flag.
Standard Proportions for the Flag of the United States
| Hoist (Width) of Flag | Fly (Length) of Flag | Hoist (Width) of Union | Fly (Length) of Union | E | F | G | H | Diameter of Star | Width of Stripe |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0 | 1.9 | 0.5385 (7/13) | 0.76 | 0.054 | 0.054 | 0.063 | 0.063 | 0.0616 | 0.0769 (1/13) |
| A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | K | L |
Standard proportions of the flag of the United States, as defined by Executive Order 10834
The American flag, also known as the Stars and Stripes or Old Glory, represents the United States of America with its iconic design of thirteen horizontal stripes and white stars on a blue Union. This comprehensive guide will help you understand official flag dimensions, proper size calculation, and how to use the American Flag Calculator tool effectively.
Understanding the American Flag Design
The United States Flag has evolved since its creation, with contributions from historical figures like Betsy Ross and Francis Hopkinson. The current official iteration features fifty white stars representing the fifty states, arranged on a blue Union in the left corner, along with thirteen horizontal stripes alternating red and white to represent the original thirteen colonies.
The flag’s design is governed by U.S. Executive Order 10834, signed on August 21, 1959, which established the standard proportions and positioning of all flag elements. This executive order replaced earlier specifications, including those from the forty-eight stars era, ensuring consistency across all official United States Flag displays.
Official Flag Colors and Specifications
Standard Color Values
The American flag uses specific color values defined by the Federal Specification and maintained by organizations including the Color Association of the United States. The official colors are:
Old Glory Red: Used for the stripes and represents hardiness and valor
Old Glory Blue: Used for the Union and represents vigilance, perseverance, and justice
White: Represents purity and innocence
These Colors by reference are documented in the Standard Color Cards of America and the Color Association guidelines. The specifications were last updated on November 27, 1981, and are referenced in the United States Code Title 4 and maintained by the General Services Administration and Defense Technology Information Center.
American Flag Dimensions and Proportions
The American flag dimensions are carefully defined to maintain its iconic and balanced look. The official proportion of the U.S. flag Dimensions is 1:1.9, meaning the flag’s length is 1.9 times its height. For example, a common size used for outdoor display is 3 feet by 5 feet. Each element from the 13 stripes representing the original colonies to the 50 stars symbolizing the states is sized proportionally to ensure the flag’s design remains consistent and respectful across all versions.
Standard Aspect Ratio
The official aspect ratio of the American flag is 10:19 (or 1.0 : 1.9 when calculating flag sizes). This means the flag’s length (fly) is 1.9 times its width (hoist). This proportion applies to all flag applications, from residential flags to commercial flags and ceremonial flags.
Flag Size Chart – Standard American Flag Sizes
| Flag Type | Width (Hoist) | Length (Fly) | Square Feet | Common Use |
| Miniature American Flags | 4 inches | 6 inches | 0.17 sq ft | Desk display, parades |
| Small Residential | 2 feet | 3 feet | 6 sq ft | Home display, grave markers |
| Standard Residential | 3 feet | 5 feet | 15 sq ft | House mounting, Flag Day |
| Large Residential | 4 feet | 6 feet | 24 sq ft | Tall flagpoles, Memorial Day |
| Commercial Flags | 5 feet | 8 feet | 40 sq ft | Businesses, public buildings |
| Large Commercial | 6 feet | 10 feet | 60 sq ft | Government buildings, stadiums |
| Casket Flag | 5 feet | 9.5 feet | 47.5 sq ft | Military funerals, veteran honors |
The Union’s Dimensions and Element Positioning
The Union (the blue field with stars in the left corner) has specific proportions defined in the size calculation standards:
- Union Width (C): 0.5385 times the flag’s hoist (7/13 of the flag height)
- Union Length (D): 0.76 times the flag’s hoist
- Star Diameter (K): 0.0616 times the flag’s hoist
- Stripe Width (L): 0.0769 times the flag’s hoist (1/13 of the flag height)
Additional positioning elements (E, F, G, H) determine the precise spacing between stars to ensure consistency across all standard American flag sizes.
Using the American Flag Calculator
Step-by-Step Size Calculation Guide
The American Flag Calculator tool helps you determine exact dimensions for any flag size based on official U.S. standards. Here’s how to use it effectively:
- Choose Your Input Method: Enter either the desired width (hoist) OR length (fly) of your flag
- Select Your Unit: Choose from inches, feet, yards, centimeters, or millimeters
- Automatic Calculation: Results appear instantly showing all proportional dimensions
- Review Elements: See dimensions for the Union, stars, stripes, and all positioning elements (A through L)
- Apply to Your Project: Use these measurements for custom flags, flag design, or flag mounting projects
Pro Tip: Determining Flag Size by Flagpole Height
For ground level installations, use this rule of thumb: the flag length should be approximately 1/4 to 1/3 of the flagpole height. For a 20-foot flagpole, use a 5 to 6.5-foot flag length. Enter this length into the calculator to get all other dimensions.
Flag Material Selection and Durability
Nylon American Flags
Nylon flags are the most popular choice for residential flags due to their lightweight nature and excellent flag durability in moderate wind exposure. Nylon American Flags fly well in light breezes and are ideal for areas with moderate weather conditions.
Polyester American Flags
Polyester flags offer superior durability for commercial flags and high-wind areas. These flags are heavier than nylon and provide better flag response in challenging weather. Polyester American Flags are commonly used for businesses and government installations where wind exposure is significant.
Cotton Flags
Cotton flags are traditional choices for ceremonial flags and indoor display. While they lack the weather resistance of synthetic materials tested in wind tunnels, cotton flags offer a classic appearance perfect for flag flying holidays like Flag Day and Memorial Day.
Flag Applications and Usage
Residential Flags and Flag Mounting
For home display, residential flags typically range from 2×3 feet to 4×6 feet depending on flagpole height and flag mounting location. The American Flag Calculator helps determine the appropriate size for your specific installation, whether mounted on a house, porch, or ground-level flagpole.
Commercial Flags and Advertising Purposes
Commercial flags serve both patriotic and advertising purposes for businesses. The U.S. Flag Code permits commercial display while maintaining respect for the National flag. Businesses should use the calculator to ensure their flags meet standard proportions even at larger custom sizes.
Ceremonial Flags and Military Applications
Ceremonial flags include the casket flag (5×9.5 feet) used in military funerals and the military salute. These flags must adhere strictly to Federal Specification standards. Flag kits for ceremonies often include properly proportioned flags, stands, and accessories.
Custom Flags and Special Applications
Custom flags for special events, displays, or unique installations can be designed using the calculator to maintain official proportions. Whether creating oversized flags for stadiums or specialized flags for museums, proper size calculation ensures authenticity.
Flag Etiquette and Proper Handling
Flag Flying Holidays and Display
The American flag should be displayed on designated flag flying holidays including:
- Flag Day (June 14)
- Memorial Day (last Monday in May)
- Independence Day (July 4)
- Veterans Day (November 11)
- Flag Week (week of June 14)
Flag Folding and Storage
Proper flag folding creates the traditional triangular shape with only the blue Union and white stars visible. The U.S. Flag Code provides specific instructions for flag folding, particularly important for casket flags and ceremonial applications. When not displayed, flags should be stored in a clean, dry location.
The Pledge of Allegiance and Flag Response
The Pledge of Allegiance is the traditional flag response used in schools, government meetings, and patriotic ceremonies. Citizens should stand at attention, face the flag, and place their right hand over their heart when reciting the pledge.
Historical Context and Flag Evolution
From British Rule to Independence
Before the American flag, colonists recognized the Union Jack as the symbol of British rule. The creation of an independent flag marked a crucial step in establishing national identity for the United States of America.
Design Evolution and Official Iterations
The flag has evolved through multiple official iterations, from the original thirteen stars to the current fifty. The transition from forty-eight stars (1912-1959) to fifty stars (1960-present) required updated specifications for star arrangement and Union dimensions.
Official Resources and Compliance
Federal Government Websites and Documentation
Federal government websites provide authoritative information on flag specifications:
- General Services Administration – maintains current Federal Specification standards
- Defense Technology Information Center – technical specifications for military applications
- United States Code Title 4 – legal framework for flag display and usage
Additional Links and Resources
For comprehensive information, consult these Additional links and links to systems:
- The U.S. Flag Code – complete guidelines for flag display and respect
- Executive Order 10834 – official proportions and dimensions
- Color Association of the United States – official color standards
- Standard Color Cards of America – reference materials for color matching
Conclusion: Ensuring Accurate Flag Dimensions
The American Flag Calculator provides an essential tool for anyone needing accurate flag dimensions for residential, commercial, or ceremonial applications. By following the official proportions established in U.S. Executive Order 10834 and maintained through the U.S. Flag Code, you can ensure your flag properly represents the United States of America with the correct aspect ratio, Union dimensions, and element positioning.
Whether you’re ordering nylon American flags for your home, designing custom flags for an event, selecting flag kits for Memorial Day, or planning commercial flag installations, accurate size calculation ensures your flag meets official standards. The us flag calculator eliminates guesswork, providing precise measurements for the Union’s width and length, star diameter, stripe width, and all positioning elements from A through L.
Remember that the National flag deserves proper respect in all applications – from miniature American flags at parades to large ceremonial flags at government buildings. By using accurate dimensions and following proper flag etiquette for display, folding, and flag response during the Pledge of Allegiance, we honor the rich history and meaning of Old Glory.
Use the American Flag Calculator today to ensure your flag meets official United States standards, whether for Flag Day celebrations, Memorial Day displays, or year-round patriotic representation.