2 Ways to Secure A Flag To a Color Guard Flag Pole

If you’ve ever unwrapped a brand-new color guard flag and wondered what those little tabs at the top and bottom of the sleeve are for, you’re not alone! We recently got a five-star review from a happy customer who loved her flag but wasn’t quite sure how to secure it using the attached tabs. So let’s break it down.

First, What Fasteners Are Available?

You’ll find two types of fasteners on Band Shop flags: loop-side Velcro tabs and nylon tab fasteners. Each has its own benefits.

• Nylon tab fasteners: Secure the flag to the pole using electrical or vinyl tape. Best for silks that will stay on your pole for the whole season.
  
• Velcro tabs: Also keep your flag snug, but attach using hook-side Velcro tabs on your pole. Great when you’re swapping silks throughout the season.

(By the way, we’re using white tape for this tutorial, but feel free to coordinate your tape with your pole color for a more seamless look.)

How to Attach Your Flag Using Nylon Tabs

You’ll need:

• A marker
• Your flag silk
• Electrical or vinyl pole tape
• One 1-inch diameter flag pole

Steps:

1. Mark the bottom of your pole tip with a marker, then remove it.
2. Slide the flag sleeve onto your pole with the arc curve pointing down.
3. Align the top of the flag with your mark
4. Secure the top tab with several wraps of tape, tucking the excess tab into the pole.
5. Pull the flag tight (make sure it’s not twisted)
6. Fold the bottom tab in half and secure the same way.
   *If using Cheater Tape, this typically aligns with your 36″ mark.
7. If you’re using pole weights, now’s the time to add those too, then replace your top cap and tape the cap securely (highly recommended—no flying crutch tips, please!)

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How to Attach Your Flag Using Velcro Tabs

You’ll need:

• A marker
• Your flag silk
• Electrical or vinyl pole tape (optional)
• Two hook-side Velcro tabs (3½ inches long)
• One 1-inch diameter flag pole

Steps:

1. Mark the bottom of your pole tip with your marker, then remove it.
2. Slide the flag sleeve onto your pole with the arc curve pointing down.
3. Stick the top Velcro tab just below your mark, going side-to-side around the pole
4. Pull the flag sleeve tight (make sure it’s not twisted).
5. Stick the bottom Velcro tab to the pole, aligned with the bottom of the flag.
   *If using Cheater Tape, this typically aligns with your 36″ mark.
6. If you’re using pole weights, now’s the time to add those too, then replace your top cap and tape the cap securely (highly recommended—again, no flying crutch tips!)

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Why This Matters

Every team tapes poles a little differently—so always follow the method your instructor teaches.  Properly fastening your flag gives you better control, cleaner spins, and fewer distractions during routines. It also extends the life of your silks by preventing slips and snags.

Need new silks? Browse Band Shoppe’s full selection of color guard flags to find the right look for your next performance.