Zaanstad Wapen 1974 VNG T-Shirt: Design Description
Design Overview
This t-shirt features the official VNG-standardized version of the Zaanstad coat of arms, as approved by the Hoge Raad van Adel in 1974. This design is the visual identity used by the municipality for official purposes.
Artwork: The Shield
The central design element is a heraldic shield, divided into four quadrants (quarterly). The pattern is a repeating sequence of a silver and red lions.
- Quarter I: A red background (Gules) with a silver lion (Argent), featuring a red tongue and claws.
- Quarter II: A silver background (Argent) with a red lion (Gules), featuring a gold tongue and claws.
- Quarter III: Repeats Quarter I: a red background (Gules) with a silver lion (Argent), featuring a red tongue and claws.
- Quarter IV: Repeats Quarter II: a silver background (Argent) with a red lion (Gules), featuring a gold tongue and claws.
Heraldic Elements and Meaning
The shield's composition directly references the origins of Zaanstad. The four lions represent the six municipalities that merged to form Zaanstad: Koog aan de Zaan, Krommenie, Westzaan, Wormerveer, Zaandam, and Zaandijk. These are symbolic of the history of the region.
The colors themselves carry traditional heraldic meanings: Red signifies courage and valor, silver symbolizes purity and peace, and gold represents prosperity and generosity.
Decorative Element: Arabesque
Topping the shield is a decorative green arabesque. This element is commonly found in Dutch municipal arms and serves to emphasize the heritage and official nature of the coat of arms.
Maritime Influence (Variant)
While the core design focuses on the quartered lions and arabesque, some variations may incorporate subtle references to the Zaan region's history of trade and shipbuilding. These may appear as stylized waves or symbolic fish elements subtly integrated into the design.
Unisex Heavy Cotton T-Shirt
A reliable classic cotton tee built for comfort, durability, and style. This unisex heavy cotton shirt is the perfect everyday staple — soft, structured, and designed to make printed designs look sharp and vibrant.
Product Highlights
- 100% heavy cotton fabric for structure and comfort
- Smooth surface ensures vivid, long-lasting prints
- No side seams for irritation-free wear
- Reinforced shoulders to maintain shape over time
- Classic unisex fit — works for all body types
Fit & Style Notes
Designed with versatility in mind, this tee works as your everyday go-to. Wear it true-to-size for a classic fit, or size up for a relaxed, modern drape. The mid-weight cotton balances softness and structure, making it equally great for layering or wearing on its own.
Style it with jeans, joggers, or skirts — its timeless silhouette makes it easy to dress up or down. Perfect for personal wear, printing, branding, or merch drops.
Size Guide
For best results, measure a t-shirt you already own laid flat and compare the chest width and length to the chart below.
| Size | Width (in) | Length (in) | Sleeve (in) |
|---|---|---|---|
| S | 18.00 | 28.00 | 15.10 |
| M | 20.00 | 29.00 | 16.50 |
| L | 22.00 | 30.00 | 18.00 |
| XL | 24.00 | 31.00 | 19.50 |
| 2XL | 26.00 | 32.00 | 21.00 |
| 3XL | 28.00 | 33.00 | 22.40 |
| 4XL | 30.00 | 34.00 | 23.70 |
| 5XL | 32.00 | 35.00 | 25.00 |
Tip: Compare these measurements with your favorite tee for the best fit.
Care Instructions
- Machine wash cold (max 30°C / 90°F)
- Use non-chlorine bleach only when necessary
- Do not iron directly on printed designs
- Do not dry clean
- Tumble dry on low heat
