Creating a coat of arms, or family crest, is a unique way to honour your heritage. Rooted in centuries-old tradition, coats of arms served to identify and distinguish families and individuals, but today, they offer a creative way to represent personal or family identity. Here, we cover the steps for designing your own coat of arms, blending traditional with modern elements.
The Components of a Coat of Arms – Breakdown
Before you start designing, it helps to understand the main components of a traditional coat of arms. These include the shield, crest, supporters, and motto, each with its placement and purpose. Here’s a quick overview:
- Shield: The shield is the centrepiece of any coat of arms and displays the main symbols, colours, and patterns representing the family or individual.
- Crest : Placed above the shield, the crest often features an animal, mythical creature, or symbol of significance.
- Supporters: These are figures, often animals, on either side of the shield, symbolising protection or guardianship.
- Motto: A motto may be added beneath the shield, usually a short phrase that reflects values or aspirations.
While these elements are traditional, modern designs sometimes simplify or adapt these components for personal preference.
Choosing Colours and Their Meanings
In heraldry, colours – referred to as tinctures – hold specific meanings. When designing your coat of arms, it’s important to choose colours that align with the values you wish to represent.
- Red : Represents courage, strength, and a willingness to take on challenges.
- Blue: Signifies loyalty, trust, and integrity, often associated with public or family service.
- Green: Symbolises hope, joy, and a connection to nature.
- Gold (Yellow): Stands for generosity and wisdom, making it one of the most prestigious tinctures in heraldry.
- Black: Associated with resilience and constancy.
These traditional meanings can serve as a guide, helping you select colours that reflect your personal or family values.
Selecting Symbols (Charges) with Purpose
Symbols, or “charges,” are key to personalising a coat of arms. Each charge has its own historical significance, and selecting one that resonates with your background or values adds depth to your design.
Animals are among the most popular symbols in heraldry. A lion symbolises bravery, an eagle represents foresight and power, and a stag reflects peace and harmony. Mythical creatures like dragons and unicorns are commonly chosen for their unique meanings – dragons often signify strength and protection, while unicorns represent purity.
Objects and tools, such as swords, keys, and anchors, are also common, each conveying a specific meaning. For example, a sword may symbolise honour or defence, while a key can indicate knowledge or guardianship. Consider choosing a symbol that has meaning to your family history, profession, or personal values.
Adding Shapes and Patterns (Ordinaries)
Ordinaries are the basic shapes or patterns that appear on the shield. In traditional heraldry, these shapes also carry meaning, which can enhance the symbolism of your design.
One of the most popular is the chevron, which suggests protection or accomplishment. You can use a cross to represent faith, or a bend – a diagonal stripe indicating defence or protection.
The placement and combination of these shapes create a visual foundation for your design. If designing for modern use, you may choose to simplify these elements, keeping one or two shapes that resonate most.
Crafting a Personal Motto
A motto can add a personal touch, summarising values, goals, or ideals. Traditionally written in Latin, mottos are brief phrases reflecting family beliefs or aspirations, but in a modern design, you could choose your own language or even craft a creative motto that is uniquely yours.
Examples of traditional mottos include phrases like “Strength Through Unity” or “By Courage and Faith.” Aim for a concise slogan that aligns with your values or honours a family sentiment.
Sketching Your Coat of Arms
Once you have selected the colours, symbols, shapes, and motto, it’s time to bring your design together. Start with a rough sketch, positioning each element thoughtfully.
First, place the main symbol (or symbols) on the shield. Add any secondary shapes or patterns, such as a chevron or cross, to provide structure. Then, include a crest above the shield if desired, and position supporters on either side if your design includes them. Finish by adding the motto below.
After sketching, you can finalise the design using software or by working with an artist. Digital design tools can help refine details and colour placement for a polished result.
Using and Displaying Your Coat of Arms
With your coat of arms complete, there are many creative ways to display it. A framed coat of arms makes an elegant addition to any home, reminding family members of shared values and history. Consider using your design on personalised items, such as stationery, family photo albums, or keepsake boxes, making your family crest a unique part of daily life.
Additionally, sharing your coat of arms digitally – whether on family websites or social media – creates a lasting link to family history and keeps this heritage accessible for future generations.
Creating a coat of arms is a meaningful way to celebrate personal or family identity. By combining traditional heraldic elements with symbols that reflect your own values, you can design a piece that honours the art of heraldry while being uniquely yours.