1. Medieval Heraldry

2. Around 1000 A.D. heraldry became important to represent specific knights and/or families.
A herald wore the actual “coat” of arms, emblazoned with the knight’s shield art.
Heraldry = identification of a knight and his army.
College of Heralds still exists today to keep track of registered arms.
Shields, armor, banners, flags, badges, seals, and clothing all featured a knight’s arms and were also used by the knight’s family.

3. Even though we call heraldry a “coat of arms” it is technically just “arms” or “armorial achievement”.
There are still artists (like the one in this video) creating arms for people, which can still be registered today.
Your “coat of arms” should be for you as an individual - it is not a “family crest”.

4. Create your own Coat of Arms: Choose a way to divide the shield
Choose heraldic symbols to identify yourself
Choose colors for your arms
Choose a motto for the banner
EXTRA CREDIT:
Draw an animal “Support” on either side of the shield.
Draw a “Helmet” and “Crest” on top of the shield.

5. Royal Arms of the United Kingdom