Complete Guide to Feather Banners

What is a Feather Banner Flag?

Feather Banners are a type of vertical advertising flag that can range in size from 18” to as tall as 20 feet and can be used for both indoor or outdoor use for advertising. Spirit flags are also popular for energizing crowds during various sporting events, including indoor sports like basketball and cheerleading competitions. Feather Banners can be customized, or purchased as pre-printed stock feather signs. These flutter flags consist of a polyester or nylon flag material. Custom feather flags can be single or double sided, while stock feather banners are most often single sided.

“What is a Feather Banner” and “What is a Feather Sign” answered

Feather Banners go by several different names. These can include Feather Flags, Feather Signs, Flying Banners, or even Beach Flags. Field runner flags are another popular option, known for their durable outdoor flag polyester material and vibrant graphics achieved through dye sublimation printing. The names naturally come from their tall, slender feather flag shape. While they all have the same shape at the top of the flag, feather flags can feature numerous shapes, Teardrop flag banners are a good example of this. Feather Flags can feature different shapes at the bottom. The most common of these shapes include concave, convex, angled, and straight. The most commonly used of these options is the angled Feather Flag.

A detailed guide for purchasing and using Feather Banners

“What is a feather banner?” is just one of the many questions that come up about one of the most popular custom flags used today. This guide will set out to not only answer this question but give you information on cost, hardware options, as well as tips for ordering and designing a flag banner.

Growing Popularity as a Cost-Effective Advertising Option

Custom Feather Banners as a whole have become almost as popular as vinyl banners when it comes to inexpensive outdoor advertising. Cheer teams utilize spirit flags during various sporting events, such as football games and cheerleading competitions, to energize the crowd and motivate athletes. There are several different flag styles and sizes that come under the definition of an Advertising flag, they go by names like Swooper Flag, Teardrop Flag, and Sail Flag are just a few of the names used.

But of all the styles available, vertical custom flags have quickly grown as the most popular type of advertising flag. This article discusses the reasons for the popularity of feather banners and explore the options available when buying and using flutter flags.

History of Feather Banners

In the last 15 years or so, advertising flags have quickly become one of the most popular ways for a business or organization to draw attention. This increase in popularity is due to an evolution from the traditional flag sizes and shapes, to the tall, slender shaped advertising flags we see today. The inspiration for today’s feather flags can be traced back to Umbul-Umbul flags. These colorful, uniquely shaped flags have long been part of festivals and religious events in Bali, Java, and Indonesia. In the early ’80s, these flags inspired American kite & flag artist George Peters to create a variety of flag designs that he used at various exhibits. It was at these exhibits that the term “Feather Banners” originated after a reviewer at Phoenix Contemporary Arts Center in 1982 described the shape as “feather-like”.

Evolution of Feather Banner Shape

These early Feather Banners lacked the curved top that we are familiar with today as they were mounted on a straight pole with the edge of the flag being curved. Double sided spirit flags are ideal for situations where visibility from both sides is crucial, allowing for vibrant, clear color reproduction without transparency due to a sewn liner between the two flag pieces. Feather Flags would evolve again when a kite designer from the UK named Martin Lester would introduce the curved top design using a fiberglass fishing pole.

These early feather flag banners were mainly used for display at festivals in the beginning. The inevitable crossover to advertising is believed to have taken place at a kite festival in Bristol UK in 1993, and a new breed of flag banner was born. Numerous variations would follow and give way to the basic banner flag shapes we have today.

Variety of Wind Flag Types

There are many different types of flag banners, including swooper flags and teardrop flags to name a couple of the types available. Swooper Flags closely resemble feather flags where a Teardrop Feather Flag will have a unique round shape compared to the tall slender shape of the swooper flag.

Digitally Printed Feather Flag Banners

While the evolution of shape and size was crucial to the birth of today’s Feather Flag Banner, the widespread use of blade flags would need some help before attaining the worldwide popularity it has today. The first catalyst for this popularity would be the introduction of new cost-effective printing technologies introduced with the new millennium. Large scale dye-sublimation printing made it possible to print these flags on a large scale with pricing that was affordable by small businesses and organizations.

E commerce and Wind Flags

The second would be the expansion and growth of the internet. E-commerce would provide the perfect channel to fuel the explosion that feather banners experienced worldwide in the early 2000s. E-commerce spread awareness of feather flags and made it convenient to purchase and design feather banners online. Today a flag banner can provide affordable advertising for businesses and organizations worldwide. There is now a wide range of styles and hardware options available from online dealers for every budget.

Custom feather Flags versus Pre-Printed Feather Signs

Feather Flags offer two design options to choose from, you can have a banner flag customized with your message, or you can purchase Pre-printed stock flags with designs that represent a wide variety of business categories. These categories include Auto, Food Service, Real Estate, and then general feather flags that advertise Sales, Specials, or just solid colors to draw attention.

Stock Flag Pricing vs Custom

When it comes to pricing, the pre-printed feather signs are usually less expensive than the custom feather banner because of bulk printing. While the customized option may cost a little more, they allow you to use your branding and message. A popular method is to combine the use of customized flags, and the pre-printed banner signs to draw attention. Using both styles can maximize your exposure and stretch your advertising dollar.

Are Custom Feather Flags Double Sided?

While almost all pre-printed flags come single sided, custom feather flags have the option of having a double-sided display. The double sided option allows your message to be displayed on both sides, whereas a single sided feather banner shows one side as a mirror image. Even with the mirror image, single sided displays are useful for drawing attention from a distance with a simple message.

Double Sided Flags Prints

When using for close up exposure, double sided feather flags work well with the design visible on both sides. Double sided flags usually consist of 2 plies that are sewn together with a blocker layer in the middle. The two prints allow you to have a message on each side, with the blocker layer between to prevent light from passing through and visually distorting the message. We can even print a unique design on each side of our double sided flag banners.

Another popular feature of Custom Feather Flags is the variety of sizes available. These vertical can be a towering 15ft high, or as small as tabletop feather flags that stand 15” tall. This range of sizing allows the use of Feather Flags outdoors and indoors, where space may be limited. While the pre-printed feather flags usually only come in 14’ -15’ range, Custom Feather Banners are available in three basic size ranges. Display Height is for assembled pole set.

single sided vs. double sided feather flag — single versus a double sided feather flag.

These vertical flags come in multiple sizes

Large Flag Kit – Approximately have a 14 – 15 ft. display height.
Medium Flag Kit – Approximately have a 12 – 13 ft display height.
Small Flag Kit – Approximately have a 9 – 10 ft display height.
Less common options are the X-Large Feather Banner at 20’, and the mini tabletop and backpack feather flags under 24”.

Aluminum Pole Kits for Feather Flags

Usually, a Feather Banner pole kit will include a pole, ground spike, and a pole pocket, but another option is the cross base for indoor display. The flag pole sets usually come in 3-4 pieces that fit conveniently together and consist of lightweight fiberglass or aluminum flag pole, or a combination thereof.

Ground Spike for Indoor and Outdoor Use

The ground stake is the standard mount included in most standard packages. The ground spike is driven into the ground and provides a stable base that holds the flag pole. When it comes to indoor use, or where a stake can’t be driven into the ground, several options exist for mounting flag poles.

Feather Banner Cross Stand

The most common alternative to the ground stake is the cross stand, the cross stand allows your banner flag to set up anywhere there is a flat, stable surface. A water bag or sandbag counter-weight stabilizes the x-mount to keep the flag from tipping over. Other mounts available include wall mounts, tire mounts, and hardware that allows mounting your feather flag to the legs on a custom tent.

Easy to set up and transport

Another popular feature of the feather flags is how easily they can be assembled and break down in just a few minutes. While it is suggested that two people assemble the taller vertical pole kits, a single individual could assemble a flag kit in 5-10 minutes if needed. Some dealers will offer a handy carrying bag for transporting your pole kit.

Custom Banners and Convenience

Custom Feather Flags are very user-friendly when you have limited space. Sporting events, such as high school and college athletics, are perfect occasions to display these fabric flags and boost school spirit. Being compact and easy to assemble in just a few minutes means custom banners are a fantastic way to advertise at trade shows, conventions, or anywhere you need to draw attention to your message or brand.

Low-cost advertising option

Another common question is the all-important “How much does a Feather Banner Cost?”. The answer to this question can depend on several factors. First is whether you are considering custom banners or the pre-printed cheap feather banners. Pre-printed flag banner signs can range anywhere from $50.00 to $85.00 a kit.

FREE Shipping

Some dealers will include shipping in the price, others will offer a low price upfront, but charge inflated shipping charges on the back end. When it comes to custom banner flags, pricing is based on whether you want single sided printing or double, and the flag size. Below are some of the price ranges for a custom feather flags.

Large Single Sided Feather Banner – $120.00 – $250.00 Price Range
Large Double Sided Feather Banner – $120.00 – $250.00 Price Range
Medium Single Sided Feather Banner – $120.00 – $250.00 Price Range
Medium Double Sided Feather Banner – $120.00 – $250.00 Price Range
Small Single Sided Feather Banner – $120.00 – $250.00 Price Range
Small Double Sided Feather Banner – $120.00 – $250.00 Price Range

In most cases, these prices will increase if you choose the Cross base option. If you need multiple sets, some dealers offer wholesale quantity discounts on custom feather flags. As with the pre-printed advertising feather flags, watch out for low upfront pricing that has inflated shipping charges on the back end.

Turnaround time for a Custom Flag

When it comes to finding out how long it takes to get a custom banner, there are two things you need to consider. First is production time, second is shipping method. In most cases the production time starts once the design proof has been approved, and can run anywhere from next day to two weeks for some dealers. Big Tex Banners ships your custom feather flags within 48 hours.

Expedited Production

Some dealers will offer to expedite production for a custom flag for a fee. Still, if you shop around, you will be able to find expedited production without having to pay any extra charges. Shipping methods can be pretty standard with transit times in the 3-5-day range.

Do I need a permit to use a Feather Banner?

If you are in an incorporated area like a small town or larger city, you should check to see if regulations require you to get a permit to display custom feather flags. Some communities require permitting, or may even forbid the use of advertising flags.

Common Courtesy

If you are not obliged or limited by local regulation, you should still display your blade flags with safety and common courtesy in mind. Do not overuse or become a nuisance to your neighbors by blocking the view of their signage. Be sure to replace or remove old tattered and faded feather flags that no longer benefit your business.

This responsibility applies to all types of advertising flags. Using custom Feather flags responsibly can help prevent future regulation or banning of vertical flags in your community.

Social Responsibility to not overuse feather flags.

What are Feather Flags made of?

The two most common flag materials used for fabric flags is Polyester and Nylon, but which is for indoor or outdoor use? Of the two, Polyester is the most common flag material used for advertising flags as it offers several advantages compared to Nylon.

Polyester vs. Nylon

Polyester flag material is more suited for outdoor use and direct sunlight due to better durability than Nylon.
A Polyester flag is better at wicking water in wet weather, and this means it dries faster than Nylon and reducing the stress on outdoor flags when wet.
Polyester fabric retains color better than Nylon when used outdoors.
Polyester material is abrasion resistant, and more U.V. resistant in direct sunlight than Nylon.

Polyester Material

The polyester material used for advertising has varying weights and densities depending on the flag manufacturer. Most dealers will offer a 110-gram Knit Polyester feather flags. When it comes to printing, Polyester feather flags are more receptive to the sublimation printing process used for most full-color digitally printed custom flags.

Printing on Polyester Fabric

Sublimation Printing makes polyester vertical advertising flags more cost-effective with no setup fees and no minimum order quantities. Another advantage of sublimation printing is that the ink is fused with the polyester fabric, which increases the durability of the print.

Overall, a polyester flag offers the durability and affordability to make custom feather flags a useful marketing tool for large and small businesses.

How long do Feather flags last?

Wind and Feather Banners

Wind is the number one contributor to shortening the life of your feather banner kit. Average wind speeds are usually not a problem, but windy and wet days can be hard on custom feather flags. Some dealers will say their flags are rated to withstand wind speeds of over 50 mph, but wind speeds of this nature can be destructive to your feather banner kit, not to mention dangerous. In reality, if winds are to exceed 35 mph, you should take down your custom feather banner.

Direct Sunlight and Flag Banners

Sun can also affect the life of your Feather Flag Banner. While polyester and sublimation printing will help custom feather flags resist direct sunlight. But, as with any material, direct sunlight will eventually fade and weaken your custom flags over time. There is nothing you can do about this, but understand if your flag is in full sunlight daily, your flag will probably degrade a little faster.

Effects of Pollution

Pollution can adversely affect a flag banner. So, if you are displaying your promotional flags near a busy roadway pollution may play a part in how long your custom flags last.

Installation

Can also be a factor. Poor installation can affect both the advertising flag and the hardware. While one person can install a pole kit, it is recommended that two people assemble the larger pole kits. When installing your ground spike, be sure that it is driven into the ground far enough to keep the feather banner upright securely. Be sure the assembled flag kit has full clearance around the flag so it does not rub against objects. If unable to use a ground spike, a cross base may be an option. A cross base will allow installation when a ground spike will not work. Be sure to include a water bag when purchasing a cross base stand.

Establish Design Purpose when Designing a Custom Feather Banner

Once you decide to purchase a custom feather flag banner, you need to establish the primary purpose of the flag and a design that supports that purpose. Below you will find three of the more common uses/purposes with design tips for each.

Announcements

Short and sweet messages like open, sale, free estimates, and short product announcements also fall into this category. Keep the message brief, use large easy to read fonts. Be sure to use your logo and colors, if possible, to help with branding. Pre-printed Feather Signs are an excellent example of this category, and you can browse these flag designs and customize them with your colors and logo.

Building your Brand

Use your logo and colors, but be sure to include a service or product you want to be associated with your brand. You can also display your company motto or slogan.

Product Info

This category is for indoor flags that give the customer detailed information about your product or service. People will able to view these up close, so detailed information about your product or service will be in the design.

As you can see, it is essential to tailor the design of your custom feather banner to the purpose of your feather banner.

Feather Flag Design Options

Now it is time to get your design idea ready for print. As you look for an online flag maker, you will find that there are multiple options to have your feather flag design created.

Online Design Tool

Big Tex Banners offers an online design tool if you want to design your own feather banner. Bring your vision to life customizing fonts, colors, and artwork.

Feather Banner Design Service

Most online flag makers offer a feather flag design service, some offer this service for free, but be sure to verify before ordering as some will charge for this service. To use this type of service, you contact the dealer and describe the type of design you want, and submit any artwork or logos you wish to use. The dealer will put together a proof and send it to you for approval.

Download a Feather Flag Template

Big Tex Banners offers the option to download feather banner templates and put together a layout for your banner flag on your computer.

Digital Proofing

After submitting your layout through one of these methods, you will need to proof the design. Most dealers require you to proof your design during checkout, while some will offer to send you a production proof for approval. It varies by the dealer on the price for a PDF proof; in some cases, there is no charge. Either way, carefully check your design before you submit it.

Tips for Designing and Ordering your Feather Flag

When using or submitting artwork for your design, use quality images with a minimum of 150 dpi, avoid using images found on the web as they are usually 72 dpi and will not print well.
Use easy to read fonts for your message. Keep your audience in mind when designing your flag. For example, if your planning on using your banner flag on a roadside for passing traffic, you will want a short easy to read message.
Fully understand the difference between single and double sided feather banners and which option will work best for you. Knowing the difference could save you money as a double sided feather flag is not always necessary.
Be sure to check if any local ordinances regulate the use of custom feather flags, before purchasing.
Use your branding whenever possible. Inserting your logo, tagline, or product and service offered can increase brand awareness for your business.

Be sure to install your flag correctly, drive the ground stake firmly into the ground. A stake that is not securely in the ground could cause injury or damage if the banner flag were to fall over.
Be sure to install your flag with enough clearance all around the advertising flag, allowing for rotation. The life of the flag will be diminished if it rubs against objects.
Be aware of overhead power or utility lines when carrying or installing a feather flag kit.
Try not to block traffic signage or warning signs.
Try not to “overuse” custom flags; more is not always better. Use banner flags in moderation, so you do not draw the wrong type of attention. There is a fine line between drawing attention to your business and becoming an eyesore that may create ill-will in your local community.
Banner Flags should be brought in during adverse weather conditions. High winds and rain can shorten the life of your feather banner.

Feather Banner Summary

Feather Banners have evolved from a ceremonial flag used at festivals, to an incredibly useful advertising tool for both large and small businesses around the world. The two main options available are

Pre-printed feather signs offering a wide range of categories.
Custom Feather Banners come in multiple sizes, and the option to choose between single or double sided feather banners. Double sided feather banners allow for a unique image to be printed on each side of the custom flag. Double sided flags feature 2 digitally printed sides that are sewn together with a blocker.
Big Tex Banners offer a flag kit with a bungee cord loop option to secure the flag to the pole.
Big Tex Banners allows you to purchase a replacement pole set or flag if you are not needing a full pole kit. You can even purchase individual pieces like a ground stake if needed.
Pre-printed options range from $50.00 to $85.00 a kit.
Custom feather flags range from $90 – $300 depending on size, number of sides, and hardware.
Turnaround times vary, in some cases, while some dealers may take a couple of weeks. Big Tex Banners offers a next day shipping option.
When it comes to “how long does a Feather Flag last?” the answer depends on the weather, installation, and location of your display. Advertising flags are usually made of either Polyester or Nylon and have excellent outdoor durability.
Designing and purchasing a Feather banner online can be an easy process, but you should check local regulations on the use and display before buying. When used and appropriately designed, Custom Feather flags can be a cost-friendly marketing tool for any business or organization.