
There’s something so charming about vintage Americana decor—especially around Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, or even just to add a touch of rustic patriotism to your home year-round. If you’ve ever swooned over those aged flags framed in old barns or antique shops but didn’t want to spend a fortune, this easy DIY is for you.
I’m showing you how to make your own Vintage Americana Wall Flag Art using a small Dollar Tree flag, a few things you probably already have at home, and a little creativity. The best part? It’s affordable, super simple, and looks like something you’d find at a cute country boutique.

Supplies You’ll Need:
- 1 small American flag (Dollar Tree sells them in a pack or as hand-held flags)
- 2–3 black tea bags (or coffee works too!)
- Hot water
- Bowl or small dish
- Paper towels or an old towel
- Scissors
- Picture frame (8×10 or 11×14 depending on your flag size)
- Optional: cardstock or burlap as a background
Step 1: Give Your Flag a Vintage Look with Tea
This is the magic step that gives your flag that soft, aged, perfectly worn-in look.
- Boil water and steep 2–3 black tea bags in a bowl for about 10 minutes to make a strong brew.
- Remove the tea bags and let the tea cool slightly.
- Place your Dollar Tree flag into the tea bath and let it soak for 15–30 minutes. The longer it sits, the deeper the vintage color.
- Gently remove the flag and lay it flat on paper towels or an old towel to dry completely. This might take a few hours, but you can speed things up with a blow dryer if you’re in a hurry!
Step 2: Fringe the Edges
Once the flag is dry, take your time to distress it just a little more by fringing the edges for that timeworn, antique texture.
- Use a pair of scissors to carefully snip small vertical cuts along the edge of the flag—about ¼ inch apart and about ½ inch deep.
- Gently pull a few of the threads loose with your fingers to create that frayed, imperfect edge.
- You can also rub the edges between your fingers or lightly scrape them with sandpaper to rough them up a bit more.
This simple detail adds so much character and makes your DIY look like a found treasure from a vintage market.

Step 3: Frame It
Now that your flag has that perfectly aged and fringed look, it’s time to frame it!
- Choose a frame that fits your decor style—wood tones for farmhouse charm, black for a classic finish, or even an antique frame if you have one.
- If your frame has a mat, you can lay the flag over it. Or use a piece of cardstock, burlap, or even old book paper as a background.
- Center your flag in the frame and secure it in place.
- Reassemble your frame—and admire your work!
Display & Style Tips
- Hang it in your entryway, on a gallery wall, or prop it up on a shelf or mantel.
- Style it with vintage books, mason jars, or old family photos to complete the nostalgic feel.
- Makes a thoughtful handmade gift for a veteran or a meaningful piece for patriotic holidays.
Why I Love This DIY
This project feels like a little love letter to America—nostalgic, simple, and full of heart. It’s proof that beautiful home decor doesn’t need to be complicated or expensive. Sometimes, all you need is a $1 flag, some tea, and a quiet afternoon to create something timeless.
If you give this project a try, tag me on Instagram @withlove_tere—I’d love to see your take on it!
Pin this for later if you’re planning ahead for summer decorating, and don’t forget to share it with a friend who loves vintage Americana style too. 🇺🇸✨