People have used flags for over 4,000 years. Authentic flag designs of ancient peoples include a metal flag from Iran (ca. 3000 BC) and reconstructions of vexilloids shown on ancient Greek coins and Egyptian tomb carvings. The first type of flag was called a vexilloid thus vexillology is the scientific study of flags. This word comes from a Latin word which means "guide". The first flags or vexilloids were metal or wooden poles with carvings on top. About 2,000 years ago, pieces of fabric or material were added to some vexilloids for decoration and these looked more like the flags we know today.

The life-cycle of a flag starts from the design. It is of uttermost importance to have a clear idea of what the flag should portray once it is ready since a flag relies very heavily on visual communication. Usually the first designs are drawn in a reduced scale, depending on the size of the flag. If this is the case then the design is then blown up to a full-sized pattern in order to aid the painting process on the textile. The size of the flag depends on the pole length however it must always have a 3:2 (w:h) ratio.

The next step is to transfer the pattern onto the flag. This step may also require the use of applique (sfrondar) if the base colour of the pattern is lighter than the base color of the flag. The painting medium that is normally used is acrylic, however this depends on the likings of the clients. Painting a flag is the most time-consuming phase since all 'chiaro / scuro' shadings and other details must be painted carefully. After all this is done, the only thing that remains is to let the flag dry out, which can take up to 6 hours, and your flag will be ready to be displayed for everyone to see!