Flags are commonly seen all around us. Building frontages, government offices, schools, and even anywhere else that seemingly pronounce to the public the pride of being associated with the representation flags bear is a candidate. Flags come a long way in history as being the bearers of messages and representation. Through time, the manner and materials used in the creation of flags depended on the available material during that time.
In the earlier days, when flags were used mainly to indicate a warring nation, silk was the most usual component for the fabric. It was lightweight, glossy, and quite durable for its intended purpose. However, the use of silk over the years would take a negative toll in its popularity and utility for flags as more material types emerged. Also, silk posed a very serious problem in terms of stains and unraveling.
Nylon soon replaced most of the instances that flags were created. Not only does it have almost the same characteristics of nylon, but is also more accommodating to dirt and stains in the sense that it is easier to clean it up. It is also more durable especially when exposed outdoors.
As polyester came into the fabric scene, it quickly got a good chunk of the share of materials flags are made out of. This is because of its high durability even in harsher weather conditions. Knitted or woven, polyester makes up for durability for its heavier weight. Nonetheless, many choose this type of fabric for their flags because the difference in weight is negligible, especially when hoisted on a pole or mast.
Even if cotton is abundant, lightweight, and easy to clean, it lacks the durability in comparison. This is the reason why usual uses of these flags are for indoor and small sized requirements.