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Carrot-Top is now Freedom and Glory — different name, same people, same commitment to you.
One of the most common questions our Flag Pros hear is: “What’s the difference between a single-sided and double-sided flag?” It’s a good one, and the answer is simpler than you might think.
Most flags are printed. Using either laser or screen printing, a design pressed onto fabric, the same way ink goes onto paper. A single-sided flag means the design was printed on the front side of the fabric and shows through to the back as a mirror image (reverse). A double-sided flag uses two layers sewn together, with a design printed on both sides of the flag.
At Freedom and Glory, we offer double-sided military and custom flags so you can mark the moments that matter. Here's how to figure out which one is right for you.
How Do I Choose Between a Single-Sided And Double-Sided Flag for Outdoor Use?
The right type of flag for your flag display comes down to where you're flying it and what it needs to say. Most situations call for a single-sided flag, but there are times when double-sided is the only way to do it right.
When a single-sided flag is the right call
For most people, in most situations, a single-sided flag is exactly what you need.
They’re easier to find in more designs. At Freedom and Glory, we offer single-sided versions of all our state, military, and world flags.
They cost less. Single-sided flags use less fabric, which means we can sell them at a lower price.
They’re lighter weight, which means they fly more freely in gentle breezes and work well on wall-mount and porch flagpoles.
And they’re built to last. Our outdoor flags feature durable headers and reinforced hemming at the top, bottom, and fly end. With typical outdoor use, you can count on at least a year of strong display.
If you’re flying from a porch, a storefront, or a neighborhood flagpole in a calm-to-moderate wind area, a single-sided flag will serve you well.
When the words matter, go double-sided
Here’s where the choice gets important: if your flag has words on it, a single-sided flag will show those words in reverse on the back. For some flags, that’s fine. For others, it changes everything.
Take the POW/MIA flag. That simple black silhouette — the watchtower, the bowed head, the words “you are not forgotten.” For veterans who lost comrades, flying that flag is an act of remembrance. The words matter. The message matters. A double-sided POW/MIA flag makes sure they read clearly on both sides, exactly as they should.
The same goes for custom and promotional flags. Double-sided flags allow you to put different images on the front and back. For businesses that want to send multiple messages to their customers, double-sided flags make that possible.
Which One Holds Up Longer?
Double-sided flags are generally more durable. They’re built from two layers of fabric with a blockout layer in the middle, which means less movement in high winds and better wear over time. If you’re on the coast or any place with stronger winds, a double-sided flag is worth the investment.
That said, don’t underestimate a well-made single-sided flag. The extra weight of a double-sided flag can actually work against you on smaller or wall-mount poles. Heavier flags need a stronger breeze to fly properly, and too much weight can strain the hardware over time. The right flag for your setup is the one that fits where it’s flying.
Single- vs Double-Sided Flags FAQs
Why are most flags single-sided?
Single-sided flags, also known as single-reverse flags, are more common because they are more cost-effective to produce. Think of a piece of paper running through a printer. To create a single-sided flag, all we need to do is screen- or laser-print the design on a single layer of fabric. For almost all flags, that design naturally shows through to the back as a mirror image, which works just fine for most purposes.
What is the only U.S. State with a two-sided flag?
The Oregon flag is the only state flag that is truly two-sided, meaning it has two different designs on the front and back of the flag. The front features its state seal and lettering, while the back depicts the state animal, a beaver.
Washington’s flag is also cited as two-sided because of its legal requirements. Its flag features a portrait of President George Washington. State law requires the portrait to face the same direction on both sides and for the text to be fully readable from either side. A double-sided flag is the only way to meet that standard.
Are your U.S. Flags single or double-sided?
Most of our American flags aren’t printed at all — they’re made the traditional way, with all thirteen stripes sewn together and stars created through embroidery. The result is a dimensional, striking flag that holds up beautifully over time. We do offer a few printed versions as well, depending on your needs.
Where can I get a double-sided flag?
We offer several double-sided options, including our POW/MIA flag in both single- and double-sided versions. We also create custom double-sided flags for organizations, businesses, and individuals who want something built for their specific story. And if you’d like a double-sided version of any flag on our site, reach out to our Flag Pros. They can make sure you get exactly what you need.
Still Not Sure Which Flag Is Right for You?
At Freedom and Glory, we carry patriotic flags built for durability. Whether you’re honoring a fallen comrade, marking your business’s front door, or flying your state’s colors with pride, we’re here to help you find the right flag for your moment. Reach out to our Flag Pros, and we’ll help you figure out what works for your setup.
