What size should bunting triangles be?

When it comes to bunting, the size of the triangles is an important factor to consider. The triangles need to be the right proportions to create the waving flag effect that bunting is known for. In this article, we’ll provide recommendations on ideal bunting triangle sizes.

Standard Bunting Triangle Sizes

There isn’t an absolute standard for bunting triangle sizes, but there are some general guidelines to follow:

• Small bunting triangles: 8-10 inches per side
• Medium bunting triangles: 12-15 inches per side
• Large bunting triangles: 18+ inches per side

The most commonly used bunting size is medium, with triangle sides around 12-15 inches. This size provides enough movement and flutter when hung while also being large enough to make an impactful statement.

Factors to Consider

When deciding on bunting triangle sizes, here are some factors to take into account:

• Location: Is the bunting for indoors or outdoors? Larger triangles tend to work better outdoors where more movement is needed for visibility.
• Distance: Will the bunting be viewed from up close or far away? Larger triangles are better for bunting that needs to be seen from a distance.
• Amount of space: The more space you need to cover, the larger the triangles should be. Small triangles get lost when strung across large expanses.
• Level of formality: Smaller triangles have a more delicate, formal look. Larger triangles make more of a bold, festive statement.

Bunting Triangle Size Recommendations

Based on common bunting uses, here are some triangle size recommendations:

• Across a small room or table: 8-10 inches
• Decorating a house or entrance way: 10-12 inches
• Across a large indoor venue: 12-15 inches
• Outdoor party decor: 15-18 inches
• Front of a parade float: 18+ inches
• Draped across a building: 24+ inches

How to Measure and Cut Bunting Triangles

Once you’ve decided on the ideal triangle size, it’s time to measure and cut the fabric. Here is a step-by-step guide:

1. Cut fabric into long rectangular strips that are the finished width you want the bunting to be. A standard width is 4-6 inches wide.
2. Measure and mark the desired triangle side length along the edge of the fabric strip, spacing the marks evenly apart.
3. Cut out the triangle shapes. For perfectly symmetrical triangles, fold the fabric in half lengthwise first before cutting along the marks to create a folded edge.
4. Repeat steps for as many triangle flags as needed to cover the desired area.

Some tips when cutting out bunting:

• Add 1/4-1/2 inch seam allowances if you plan to sew a hem or attach the triangles to string.
• Use pinking shears for a decorative zigzag cut that helps prevent fraying.
• Cut triangles on the bias grain for more movement and flutter.

How Many Bunting Triangles Do You Need?

A general guideline is 8-12 triangles per foot of space you want to cover. So for a 10 foot area, you’d need 80-120 triangles. Here is a chart with estimates:

Calculate the exact space you need to cover and use the triangles per foot estimate to determine how many to cut out. It’s always better to make a few extra than to not have enough.

Hanging Options for Bunting Triangles

Once cut out, the bunting triangles need to be strung up. Here are some options:

• String or twine: The traditional bunting look. Use a needle to stitch fabric triangles to sturdy string or twine, spacing them evenly apart.
• Ribbon: For a decorative touch, string triangles on satin ribbon instead of plain string.
• Tying: Triangles can be tied directly onto a long string with fabric strips, rope, or even fishing line.
• Garland hooks: Individual plastic hooks can be used to hang triangles from a line or beam without any sewing or tying.

When hanging bunting:

• The string or line should have a little slack so triangles have room to flutter.
• Space triangles 2-6 inches apart depending on size and look desired.
• Hang bunting in swag or scallop shapes for visual interest.

Bunting Alternatives

Don’t want to sew triangles or cut fabric? Here are some easy shortcut options:

• Use ready-made paper flags or pennants.
• Cut triangles from scrapbook paper or old maps.
• Cut colorful plastic tablecloths into triangle shapes.
• Use colorful streamers in place of fabric bunting.
• Create a bunting look with strands of shaped pom poms, tassels or tissue paper balls.

No-Sew Fringe Bunting

An easy no-sew bunting idea is to cut rectangular fabric into fringe. Here’s how:

1. Cut fabric into strips the length you want your bunting.
2. Cut lateral fringe slits halfway across the width of the fabric, spacing evenly apart.
3. Tie or glue fringe bunting strips to a long string or drape across a beam or wall.

Fringe bunting has a festive, playful look perfect for parties and celebrations.

Get Creative with Bunting!

Bunting triangles don’t have to be boring or follow tradition. With creative shape and size variations, they can become an art form. Some ideas:

• Mix and match triangle sizes for an ombre effect.
• Cut triangles from maps, sheet music or book pages.
• Use bold graphic fabric prints to make a statement.
• Cut triangles into fun shapes like stars, circles, hearts or even words.
• Incorporate decorative details like ruffles, buttons, ribbons or appliques.

Go wild and use your imagination to create unique bunting designs and decor!

Conclusion

When it comes to bunting triangle sizes, the most common range is 12-15 inches per side for medium-sized triangles. Adjust bigger or smaller depending on your needs and the distance they will be viewed from. Calculating around 8-12 triangles per foot is a good estimate for the amount needed. Cut triangles from fabric, paper or anything colorful, then string them up for a festive decorative statement indoors or out. With creative shape and size variations, you can take basic bunting up a notch and turn it into a beautiful piece of art.