We live in a culture where more is better. When it comes to flag design, that mantra does not work. Lets dig into some basic custom flag design principles, from Good Flag, Bad Flag by Ted Kaye, published by NAVA.
Keep It Simple
The flag should be so simple that a child can draw it from memory.
Since the flag is made to move, flutter, and shake, the image should be so simple it can be recognized from a distance while moving. A single symbol or large shape is best when designing a flag. The best design is reversible, so that the flag reads correctly from each side of the flag. Avoid complicated flags, different designs on each side, and too many symbols.
Use Meaningful Symbolism
The images, colors, or patterns should relate to what it symbolizes.
Typically, a single, primary symbol is best when designing a flag. Choose a symbol that resonates with the people or institutions they represent. Colors carry meaning: red for blood or sacrifice, white for purity, blue for water or sky. Avoid symbols that are complex or too unique.
Use 2 -3 Basic Colors
Limit the number of colors on the flag to three, which contrast well and come from the standard color set.
Keeping a flag to two or three colors provides the best designed flags. Basic colors include red, blue, green, black, yellow, and white. A well designed flag will reproduce well in black and white. Avoid more than four colors since they are hard to distinguish and make the flag complicated. Also, unique colors as well as purple and orange usually do not make the best flags.
No lettering or seals
Never use writing of any kind or an organizational seal.
Flags are graphic symbols that constantly move making lettering on flags hard to read and difficult to reproduce. Seals were designed for placement on paper to be read at close range. Seals lose their meaning when flying above ground in the wind.
Be distinctive or be related
Avoid duplicating other flags, but use similarities to show connection.
Dig deep to find symbols and colors that are unique but somehow connected to the country, religion, or organization they belong to. It is important to avoid using an existing flag design. This step takes time to research current flags.
These are our custom flag design principles we use when tasked with designing a flag for a customer.