What I did is took my old faded store-bought one down and used that as a guide for measuring the size. I purchased ripstop fabric in different colors for the entire flag. My old bluebird flag was used as a pattern for making the applique birds and flowers. I sewed the pole opening seam on the background fabric. I lightly sprayed the appliques with temporary adhesive and placed them on the background. (My flag hangs down horizontally.) I then used a sharp 70/11 needle and using a wide satin stitch sewed slowly around the appliques. Mine isn't designed on both sides because I didn't need it. I have pine trees a few feet behind the wall that has the flag on. Can only see one side anyway.