What is Patriotic Bunting?

If you have lived in the United States for more than even a few months, you have likely encountered images of patriotic bunting draped over homes and businesses during the summer. Used to celebrate and commemorate everything from the country’s independence on July 4^th to the unofficial beginning and end of the summer season on Memorial and Labor Day, these festive strands of flags or fabric are as American as the people who hang them. But how did they get their start - and how did they evolve into the decorations we so commonly see today?

Here is your brief crash course in the history and origin of patriotic bunting - as well as how to make use of these decorations today!

The Fabric of Our Nation’s Founding

The origin of the patriotic bunting lies in the name itself. Bunting originally referred to the fabric used to create flags for the royal navy - back before the United States even existed in its current form. The fabric was known for its texture, a type of wool that was worsted, meaning that its fibers were designed to lie parallel to one another. The origin of the word itself is unknown, but in its time, the fabric was common.

Bunting Today

The meaning of the word bunting has evolved along with the people of the nation that has made it so popular. These decorations are now made from any number of materials - not just fine wool fabric. Bunting may refer to strings or stretches of fabric, plastic, paper, or even cardboard. It may also refer to strings holding festive flags, which are often referred to as pennants. The most common are classic triangular flags, such as you might see at a party or parade.

Another popular way to create bunting is to drape strips of fine fabric in lovely, gathered shapes. This may include anything from fussy pleats to oversized flag shapes. This is especially popular in applications like weddings and other formal celebrations. Another way to display bunting is to simply gather numerous flags and hang them together, much the way you might see on a ship or strung between high poles for a business celebrating a grand opening. These days, bunting can really be anything!

Bringing Bunting Home

Americans love the look of bunting - especially when used for parties and patriotic displays. Patriotic bunting - red, white, and blue fabrics with stars and stripes splashed across them - are common in the summer months and may accent homes or businesses celebrating the season.

Whether it’s a strand of tiny replica American flags or a more abstract, impressionist tribute to the nation with strips of tri-colored fabric, there are so many ways to make bunting beautiful for the summer.

If you’re looking to bring this all-American style home this year, look to party retailers and outdoor décor outlets. These retailers offer numerous styles - including both patriotic prints and those made for everything from mourning to Mardi Gras parties - so you can create the look you love.

About This Author

Lara Gill Joined: October 27th, 2018