I have a recommendation for a book that I’m confident you’ve never read: Good Flag, Bad Flag by Ted Kayne. This book isn’t in any libraries or bookstores, because it’s only available online.
This book shows the rules of how to design a good flag, as well as showing examples of what flags are considered ‘good’ and ‘bad’ based on sets of guidelines that are stated on the first few pages. The rules are: “Keep It Simple. The flag should be so simple that a child can draw it from memory. Use Meaningful Symbolism. The flag’s images, colors, or patterns should relate to what it symbolizes. Use 2–3 Basic Colors. Limit the number of colors on the flag to three, which contrast well and come from the standard color set. No Lettering or Seals. Never use writing of any kind or an organization’s seal. Be Distinctive or Be Related. Avoid duplicating other flags, but use similarities to show connections.” I used these guidelines when I was designing a redesign of the flag of Fort Collins, as well as when my brother and I decided to make personal flags for ourselves. YouTuber CGP Grey used this book when he rated all the US state flags in his video Does Your Flag Fail? This is one of my favorite books because I am a huge fan of flags, and try and experiment with different designs and templates when I am designing a new flag. Even though this book is short, I highly recommend you check it out!
Link to book: https://www.amazon.com/Good-Flag-Bad-Ted-Kaye/dp/097477281X
