Did you know that the history of flags go back over 3,000 years? They were originally only used to herald a knight in battle, but soon became more common around the world as signs and sails for ships. Today, they are popular both for identification purposes, and also for decoration.

Flags have come a long way since they first appeared as a part of war. Here are three ways you can use traditional or custom flags in your own life.

1. As an Advertisement for a Business

• Custom flag designs are a popular way to advertise either a company or a sale, for several reasons. For one, they are highly visible and are more likely to catch someone's eye than a simple poster, especially because flags move. Second, they rarely require extra permits in order to be hung.
• Tear shaped flags are used when businesses want the message to be clear, since these flags resist flapping. Flutter flags are popular with businesses like car dealerships.

2. Patriotism

• Polyester American flags are a popular sight at many schools, businesses and homes. It's important, if you do hang a flag, that you follow at least the basic rules regarding its placement and storage.
• There is a Federal Flag Code that provides guidelines and rules for display. The flag should never be displayed upside down, should not be used for advertising purposes, should never be stepped on, and should not touch the ground when it is lowered. The flag should also be cleaned when necessary, and properly discarded when it becomes tattered.

3. Custom Outdoor Flags

• If you want to celebrate the seasons, new achievements, birthdays et cetera, why not do it with a flag? Get kids excited for the first day of school with a schoolbus flag. Or celebrate spring with a beautifully embroidered flower flag. Flags can also be a great way to "announce" a birthday or good grade to the neighborhood.
• If you are trying to sell your house, a flag can be a unique way to capture someone's attention from the road, especially if it's fairly colorful. Just make sure that it's in good condition when you fly it. Do you use 
  custom flags at your home or business? Let us know in the comments.

One easy way to add color to your home or celebrations is by displaying a flag. Decorative flags can be a great addition to your garden, party, or business. Styles range from the highly traditional American flags, to uniquely shaped custom logo flags used by businesses to advertise their products and sales.

How You Can Use Custom Printed Flags to Advertise Your Business

• If you want to alert passersby to a good deal happening at your location, flags can be a great way to do it. They are eye-catching, can convey images and information, and can hang or be placed in multiple places. Their placement is usually not regulated, either, giving you an easy avenue for advertising.
• Custom flags are a good way to add a professional, unique touch to your offerings. It's a very visual type of investment that signals to clients that you're more than just a back trunk operation.
• Flutter flags, which have a teardrop shape, are popular with businesses because, unlike traditional flags, there is no fabric that can flap in the wind, obscuring the message and fraying the flag. They're easy to carry and can usually be printed on both sides.

When to Use Different Types of Flags

• When you're deciding where to place your flags, it's important to keep their material type in mind. Vinyl avenue banners, for example, are great for the outdoors. Nylon and polyester are great for the outdoors as well.
• Custom embroidered flags can be beautiful, but because they are usually made from cotton, are best used indoors in order to keep the flag well-preserved.
• The American flag can be used for most businesses and homes. If you are going to display it, though, make sure to take proper care of it, otherwise you might end up angering customers with your neglect of a national symbol.
• Make sure to properly anchor your flags in their correct setting, and in the right location. A traditional 3' by 5' flag, for example, doesn't belong hanging close to the ground.

What has your business used 
custom printed flags to advertise? Let us know in the comments.