What to Know Before Buying an American Flag

Feb 24, 2026

Buying an American flag may seem simple, but not all flags are made the same, and many aren’t even made in the United States. Because the flag represents freedom, sacrifice, and unity, the quality behind it matters. Before you purchase, here’s what you should know to ensure you’re choosing a flag built to last and worthy of what it stands for.

Is It Truly Made in the USA?

One of the most important things to check before buying an American flag is where it was made. It may surprise you, but many American flags sold today are imported. While they may look similar at first glance, overseas production often prioritizes lower cost over long-term durability and craftsmanship.

Why “Made in the USA” Matters:

• Higher quality standards – American manufacturers are held to stricter production standards.
• Better materials – Domestic flag makers typically use stronger fabrics and more durable stitching.
• Supporting American jobs – Purchasing a U.S.-made flag supports American workers and businesses.
• Integrity of the symbol – For many buyers, it simply feels right that the American flag be made in America.

At Real American Flag, this commitment and process go even further. All of our American flags are made in the USA from 100% American-sourced materials and labor.

The cotton used in our flags is woven in mills located in Texas, Georgia, and South Carolina. The woven cloth is then dyed in finishing plants in South Carolina and Georgia, producing the vibrant Old Glory Red, Old Glory Blue, and White that define our nation’s flag.

Our flags are manufactured at our facility by American workers who take pride in every stitch. We are especially proud to employ Veterans, as well as individuals with moderate to severe disabilities, providing meaningful work while producing a symbol that represents opportunity and freedom for all.

Be cautious of wording such as:

• “Designed in the USA”
• “Assembled in America”
• “Made with domestic and imported materials”

A genuine American-made flag should be clearly labeled “Made in the USA.” Reputable companies are transparent about their manufacturing process and proud to share where their flags are produced.

Printed vs. Embroidered Stars: What’s the Difference?

At first glance, the stars on a flag may look the same. But how they’re made significantly affects both appearance and durability.

Printed stars

Printed stars are applied directly to the fabric using ink or dye. This method is faster and less expensive, which makes it common in lower-cost flags, especially the imported ones.

Pros:

• More affordable
• Lightweight
• Suitable for short-term or decorative use

Cons:

• Can fade more quickly in sun exposure
• No texture or dimensional detail
• Often paired with thinner materials

Embroidered stars

Embroidered stars are individually stitched into the blue canton of the flag. This process takes more time and skill, but it produces a more refined and durable result.

Pros:

• Raised, textured appearance
• Stronger stitching that holds up in wind
• More traditional, premium look
• Greater long-term durability

At Real American Flag, embroidered stars are crafted with precision and reinforced stitching to ensure both visual distinction and long-lasting performance. If you’re looking for a flag that will fly proudly and withstand the seasons, embroidered stars are typically the better choice.

Construction Details That Separate Quality from Cheap Production

Beyond where it’s made and how the stars are constructed, the overall build of a flag reveals a lot about its quality. A well-made American flag isn’t just sewn together; it’s reinforced in the areas that endure the most stress. Here are just a few good quality features to look for:

Reinforced Fly End

The fly end (the edge farthest from the pole) takes the most wind pressure, so look for double or quadruple stitching along this edge to prevent fraying.

Sewn Stripes

Higher-quality flags have individual red and white stripes stitched together, rather than printed onto a single sheet of fabric. Sewn stripes improve durability and give the flag a more substantial look.

Heavy-Duty Canvas Heading

The heading (the vertical edge attached to the pole) should be made of strong canvas material, not thin fabric.

Tight, Even Stitching

Examine the stitching lines and make certain that they are straight, tight, and free of loose threads or uneven seams.

At RealAmericanFlag.com, every flag is built with durability and respect in mind, because craftsmanship matters when you’re flying the symbol of our nation.

A Symbol Worth Doing Right

The American flag deserves to be made with the same integrity it represents.

At RealAmericanFlag.com, every flag is made in the USA from 100% American-sourced materials and labor, built for lasting quality and respect. We are also a proud supplier to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, providing burial flags that honor our nation’s Veterans.

Choose craftsmanship and integrity; purchase your American-made flag today at https://realamericanflag.com