Another 4th of July has come and gone and from the start of the day to the finale of the fireworks display, American flag merchandise was everywhere to be seen. But have you ever wondered how much of that merchandise technically is in conflict with the federal law? We wondered the same thing too, so we found this article in promo marketing magazine that further explains the rules of displaying the American Flag on merchandise.

It turns out that there is a code of etiquette when it comes to displaying the U.S. flag…so here are a few of the rules for donning the stars and stripes:

             1. The flag should never be used as wearing apparel, bedding or drapery.

             2. The flag should never be used as a receptacle for receiving, holding, carrying or delivering anything.

             3. The flag should never be used for advertising purposes in any manner whatsoever. It should not be embroidered on such articles as cushions or handkerchiefs and the like, printed or otherwise impressed on paper napkins or boxes or anything that is designed for temporary use and discard. Advertising signs should not be fastened to staff or halyard from which the flag is flown.

             4. No part of the flag should ever be used as a costume or athletic uniform However, a flag patch may be affixed to the uniform of military personnel, firemen, policemen and members of patriotic organizations.

While the code clearly states that the U.S. flag should not be used for items, like apparel and napkins, there’s no penalty for violating it. That’s still protected under the First Amendment. So, not to worry, you can still wear American Flag merchandise, as long as it’s not the actual flag….But even now that the Fourth of July is over, we should be on the lookout for more patriotic-themed items to come out as the Olympic Games draw nearer.