The 13-fold triangular method is the most widely recognized tradition for folding the American flag. Whether you are preparing a flag for storage, display, or a formal ceremony, this guide covers everything you need to know: the origins of the tradition, what the folds represent, how to fold correctly, and what the Flag Code actually says.
The Origins of the 13 Folds
According to the American Legion, the exact origin of this practice is unknown. Some believe the tradition began with the Gold Star Mothers of America. Others associate the 13 folds with the 13 original colonies. Neither explanation has been officially confirmed.
The U.S. Flag Code does not require a specific folding method. Folding the flag into a triangle is a long-standing ceremonial tradition used by the military, veterans organizations, and families across the country. This is a matter of custom, not law.
What Do the 13 Folds Mean?
No official U.S. government or military source assigns a specific meaning to each fold of the American flag.
Some honor guards and organizations use optional ceremonial scripts that attach symbolic meaning to each fold, often reflecting values such as liberty, honor, remembrance, and service. These meanings are traditional, not official.
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs refers to this as the "so-called 13-fold" ceremony and states a recitation is optional, typically performed only if requested by the family.
For an at-home photo walkthrough of each fold, see our Flag Folding step-by-step guide.
Reasons to Fold the Flag
Three common reasons: ceremony, storage, and display.
Ceremonial Use
At military funerals and formal events, two people fold the flag together, each holding one end and keeping the flag taut throughout the sequence. Families choose a silent ceremony or request the optional 13-fold recitation.
Respectful Storage
Folding the flag into a triangle before storing is the traditional and widely recommended method. The U.S. Flag Code states the flag should never touch the ground, floor, water, or merchandise.
Display
A flag with sentimental or historical significance is often folded and placed in a display case, available in both wall-mounted and tabletop styles.
Folding an American Flag
For formal ceremonies, two people are required: one at each end to keep the flag taut and level throughout. At home, one person can fold solo on a clean, flat surface.
With the union (blue field of stars) facing outward and two people each holding one end, start at the striped end and follow these steps:
- Two people hold the flag waist-high and parallel to the ground, keeping it taut between them.
- Fold the flag lengthwise once, bringing the lower half up to meet the top edge.
- Fold lengthwise a second time so the union of stars remains on the outside.
- Bring the striped corner upward to meet the top edge, forming a triangle.
- Fold the triangle inward along the top edge. Repeat this triangular fold.
- Continue until only the blue field of stars is visible.
- Tuck the remaining edge into the fold to secure the triangle.
The flag should never touch the ground, floor, water, or merchandise during folding.
Flag Sizes for Folding and Display
A 5′ × 9.5′ cotton flag is the standard size used for military funeral ceremonies. Designed to drape a casket, this flag is not typically used for outdoor display.
For home folding and everyday display, a 3′ × 5′ cotton flag or 3′ × 5′ nylon flag is the most practical size.
| Flag Size | Material | Use |
|---|---|---|
| 5′ × 9.5′ | Cotton | Military funeral ceremonies. Designed to drape a casket. Not for outdoor display. |
| 3′ × 5′ | Cotton | Home folding and everyday display. Holds shape well indoors. |
| 3′ × 5′ | Nylon | Lightweight alternative for everyday outdoor display. Becomes easy to fold with practice. |