Process for the Ceremonial Folding of the National Flag of Canada

The Flag should be held taut in an outstretched manner. Although the preferred and easier way of folding the flag is done with 8 persons the same process can be accomplished with 6 persons should a formal Flag-folding ceremony required. The individuals face each other as illustrated.

Step 1: Persons 2, 4, 6 and 8 stand fast holding the flag taut. Persons 1, 3, 5 and 7 initiate the first movement by passing the sewn edge under to their facing colleagues. On the words of command PREPARE TO FOLD – FOLD persons 2 and 8 will slide their right and left hands respectively toward the centre outer edge of the flag, simultaneously sliding their left and right hand and grasping the corners of the flag. Persons 1, 3, 5 and 7 grasp the flag along the folded edge (what is normally the centre of the flag) ensuring the flag remains taut.

Step 2: The fold in step 1 is repeated, resulting in a quarter of the flag in full length (the tip of the maple leaf shall be facing up).

Step 3: On the words of command PREPARE TO FOLD – FOLD persons 7 and 8 bring their end forward in an upward motion to persons 5 and 6. This fold is done over the hands of the others. Persons 3, 4, 5 and 6 guide the flag and ensure it remains taut. Persons 7 and 8 step back and remain at attention in their original positions.

Step 4: On the words of command PREPARE TO FOLD – FOLD the fold in step 3 is repeated and persons 5 and 6 step back.

Step 5: On the words of command PREPARE TO FOLD – FOLD persons 3 and 4 fold the flag under holding it taut persons 3 and 4 step back.

Step 6: On the words of command PREPARE TO FOLD – FOLD persons 1 and 2 fold the flag over holding it taut, resulting in the final form ready for presentation.



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Note: It is important to note that the above-mentioned method for folding the flag is to be used for ceremonial presentations and is not intended to be the official method used on a routine daily basis. When flags are lowered or removed as a part of a normal procedure, they are simply folded with quiet dignity.