BACKGROUND: About me and my workshop

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"Shift Colors!" is a command that has been used in the US Navy since the beginning.  "Colors" refers to the communication flags and particularly refers to the American flag or ensign seen on all Navy ships.  The Captain would call out, "shift colors!" immediately when the first line was secured to the pier indicating the ship was moored or anchored.  "Shift colors!" would also be ordered when the last line was removed from the pier indicating the ship was underway.  Upon hearing this command, the crew would precisely and expeditiously move the ensign to the properly designated location on the ship.  Therefore, the location of the American flag, the "colors", would indicate whether the ship was underway or moored.  

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The term "shifting colors" represents to me - tradition, patriotism, pride, precision and of course reflects on my prior US Navy career.  Additionally, just as a shift in colors represents a major transition in a ship's journey, it also represents some of the major transitions in my life's journey - marriage, retirement, children, loss of my spouse, etc.  I put all of these qualities into every American flag that I make.

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Welcome to my workshop, Shifting Colors Workshop.

I retired from active duty service from the US Navy after serving for 21 years.  I now live in the foothills of northern Colorado.  When I'm not working at my real job, I like to relax by tinkering around in my workshop.  

I began making simple wooden American flags a couple of years ago.  I believe the American flag demands honor and respect.  It represents tradition, patriotism, sacrifice and freedom.  After many trials and testing, I pushed myself to make more complex flags.  I now believe that my flags have reached the appearance and quality that I'm happy to share with you. 

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I hope you enjoy them as much as I enjoy making them.  

Michael