Family Crest / Heraldry

Heraldry is a huge subject, and some people spend their lives studying it. This guide will help you get to grips with the basics and give you the facts you need to design your very own piece of heraldry or coat of arms.

A brief explanation of the artistry in heraldry.



HOW HERALDRY STARTED

Heraldry is about showing people who you are. In England, it started in the later 1100s, when knights began to wear helmets that covered their faces, and they couldn't be recognized. So they began to paint unique combinations of colors, shapes, and animals, called their 'arms', on their shields and banners. Only one person was allowed to use these arms, so when people saw a knight wearing them in a battle or tournament, they could tell who he was.


Use this site to learn more about colors, ordinaries, charges, and beasts/ animals

https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/guide-to-heraldry

Armorial Gold - Official Site - You source for Professional Heraldry Art                  Heraldry

This PDF goes into great detail about the parts of a crest. 

Guide to Heraldry



Continue on to the next step to start designing your own crest.







Last modified: Tuesday, 26 September 2023, 1:00 PM