Our fully sewn Blue Ensign flags are of superior quality and are expertly crafted using high-grade materials sourced here in the UK. Flat-felled interlocking stitch is used for all seams to combine the 33 separate pieces. This is completed with four rows of stitching at the fly end for a robust finish. All our flags are manufactured specifically for outdoor use.
Who is allowed to fly the Red Ensign?
| Size | Price (sewn) | Price (Printed) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0.75yd | 68.58 x 40.64 | £32.00 | |
| 1yd | 91cm x 45cm | £36.00 | £15.00 |
| 1.5yd | 137cm x 68cm | £45.00 | |
| 2yd | 183cm x 91cm | £68.00 | |
| 2.5yd | 229cm x 114cm | £79.00 | |
| 3yd | 274cm x 137cm | £128.00 | |
| 4yd | 365cm x 183cm | £185.00 |
To place an order: Telephone 01752 696 696 ~ or email: sales@alphaflags.co.uk~ or use contact form
No VAT to add to prices shown
Our Blue and Red Blue Ensigns are manufactured here in the United Kingdom using traditional methods. As maritime flags are usually in exposed areas, our construction methods need to be robust to withstand the elements. The design of the ensign consists of 23 thin bands of white and red fabric stitched together. These combined strips are added to 8 pieces of blue fabric, resulting in the finished Union that is then inserted into a further two separate pieces of blue fabric. Great care is taken to ensure all the seams are interlocked to secure our Blue/Red Ensigns to produce one of the best quality sewn ensigns on the market.
The flag design may look simple in visual terms. However, fully sewn ensigns are complex and can be labour-intensive to construct. Although printed versions are popular in the digital world of today, the demand for fully sewn nautical flags remains high.
We take great pride in adhering to the traditional methods used to create our Blue and Red sewn ensigns. The process may not be instantaneous but it is perfect for our attention to detail.
Stock Sizes and Technical Information
Our Blue and Red Ensign sizes range from 0.75 yds to 4 yds with a ratio of 2:1 or 3:2. Larger sizes are available – prices on application. Manufactured from 155gms MoD-approved woven polyester, the strongest flag fabric for outdoor flags. Nylon Bonded thread is used throughout the sewing process with 100% White header tape providing extra strength. All sewn flags come complete with rope and toggle unless otherwise requested. Other fixtures and fittings are available on application. Anti-fray (netting) prevents fraying if your flags are exposed or in a windy location. This can be added at an extra cost, also on request
All fabric, exposed to the elements will eventually fray so please follow the advice below to prolong the life span of your flag.
Flag care and maintenance
Woven / Spun Polyester: Typically 155gsm. Often referred to as MoD grade, this is the most durable material for making flags. Any other fabric does not surpass its strength-to-weight ratio.
It is very important to ensure that the flag can fly free without striking or coming into constant contact with any obstructions such as a wall, a tree or foliage or the surface of a pole that is rough.
It is also important to consider whether the flag will constantly be exposed to harsh or extreme weather conditions such as high winds, heavy rain or heavily polluted urban environments.
Flying an excessively large flag in bad weather will dramatically reduce life expectancy.
How long a flag will last is an impossible question to answer as it depends upon many factors.
It is not recommended to fly your flag continuously as this will reduce the life expectancy. Typically a flag flown continuously 24/7 may only last approximately 3 months.
Left out indefinitely, a flag will eventually succumb to the elements
Hand-wash or gently machine-wash at 30 degrees using a mild detergent. If unsure, consult your flagmaker.
Once a flag has become too dirty, it won’t be easy to clean
- Never fly in inclement weather and strong winds
- Flags should always be thoroughly dry before folding and storage
- Flags should be taken down at night and in inclement weather
Your flag will endure much longer if it is cared for properly.
To get more life out of your flag you can always re-hem the outer fly edge when it eventually becomes worn. Simply cut away the frayed edge and hem with a suitable sewing machine.
You can find more information about the Blue Ensign here