Both born in Vancouver and friends from age twelve, partners Stuart Sproule and Barnaby Killam founded Red Flag Design in 2004. Prior to their joint venture, Stuart received his BFA at Emily Carr University of Art & Design and his Masters of Industrial Design at the Design Academy Eindhoven. Barnaby received his BFA at the Nova Scotia College of Art & Design.

The partnership was formed in an effort to make products that are outside the mass-produced, mass-consumed culture. Red Flag Design creates objects that offer more than just function and style. Their aim is to make useful products that showcase the materials' history, have a long life expectancy and are loyal to their owners. Red Flag Design's Alternate Use Material (AUM) line breathes new life into abandoned sailing materials as innovations in sailing technology make them obsolete. The beautifully crafted, versatile and durable bags are hand-made in Red Flag Design's Vancouver studio.