Pin flags look like the simplest thing a course buys. Four decisions separate a set that works from one that irritates everybody for a season.

Measure a flagstick before you do anything else

The sewn tube has to match the outside diameter of the sticks you own. Too wide and the flag rides up and spins; too tight and it will not go on in the cold.

One measurement, taken once, fixes every order you place from then on.

Order by hole, and order spares

One flag per number, plus the practice green, plus spares. Flags disappear one hole at a time.

Ask whether the supplier will re-run a single hole without a new setup charge. If they hold your artwork, they can.

Ask what double-sided means

It should mean two plies with a blockout liner between them, so both faces read correctly and the pole does not shadow through.

If it is one ply, the reverse is mirrored. You cannot tell from a photo of the front, so ask.

Decide printing or embroidery by the flag’s job

Embroidery for flags that get framed. Printing for flags that get flown.

Embroidery holds water and stays damp after dew, which is a nuisance on a course and irrelevant on a wall.