How to Properly Store and Display a Flag in a Wood Case

The materials used for flag storage can either assist or deter from proper preservation and unfortunately you won't notice the damaging affects until it's too late. Our woodworking experts weigh in on how to properly store a flag in a wooden case.

Our woodworking experts weigh in on how to properly store a flag in a wooden case.

Woodworking Question - Several years ago, my aunts gave me my grandfather’s 1948 casket flag. I’ve wanted to build a display box for the flag since then; however, I understand that certain woods and finishes are acidic and may not be archive friendly. Do you know which wood and finish would be safest to use to make an archival display box for this flag? Also, I’d like to place glass in the front so that the exposed portion of the flag doesn’t fade. Do you have any suggestions about what would be best to use for this type of protect?

Answer from the Experts - There are certainly strategies to avoid acid in both wood and finish. Tannin plus moisture forms tannic acid, so choose a low tannin wood like maple, birch, aspen or holly, and avoid high tannin woods like oak, walnut, mahogany and cedar. To further isolate any tannin, seal the inside of the wood frame, the portion facing the flag, as well as the outside. Let the finish fully cure for four to six weeks before sealing the flag in the case.