Flagging Forum ← Forum

From Aleck:

Hi,

I’ve been trying to find some information about which type of weights are used in making flags. I’ve read that the usual curtain weighted cords with lead weights are used, but I’m not sure what those are and where I can buy them.

Thank you in advance.

Any fabric store that sells curtain fabric will sell the weights for the curtains. Make sure its the self contained ones ( usually small lead cylinders wrapped in a small tube of fabric ) buy enough to do the long side of your flags 3/4 of the way and on the short side half way down and at least two rows ( on the second row just shy of half for each side ). Be careful how you sew it as the lead will ruin needles lol

How do you contain the beaded curtain weight when you cut it from the length? I am assuming you would either tie it off or melt the fabric tube containing it? Thanks

Dorian in Seattle

Hi Dorian,

To contain the beaded weight after cutting, hold the end in a flame for just a moment.  When I sew the cord into my flags I make sure to stitch the cord ends in well, by zigzing through the cord end into the fabric.

Hola

Mike in Puerto Vallarta, and the only weights I can find in Mexico are much lighter than the one’s in our flag from Phillips stash.  I have located Wright cord or rope, that doesn’t specify weight in grams but is 3.2 mm or 1/8 in. 

Do any of you have a way of identifying the lead weight cord?  I hate to buy enought for 15 sets of flags (one pair per set) and it not be enough weight.