Introduction
Hello, everyone! This quick guide will teach you how to create your own coat of arms (CoA). You can place it in your ency, graphics or anywhere else. Inspired by the interest shown in the family crests shared via Discord.

Tools
There are many free sites and software that are available. You can even draw your own CoA! For these examples, I used CoaMaker. Please do not copy them, as they were customised for each person. I also advise against copying real house emblems.

Noxley (belongs to Leo Noxley) “familia supra omnia” ॥ “family above all”

Wrenford (belongs to Rosaline Everhart) “incorrupta fides, nudaque veritas” ॥ “uncorrupted faith and the naked truth”

Merrick (belongs to Cecilia Merrick) “mors glorietur ad nos capiendos” ॥ “make death proud to take us”

Heraldry Symbolism
There are no official rules. Meanings of colours and charges are heavily influenced by culture. For example, CoA maker shared may not work for creating a Mon (family emblem) associated with Japanese clans. I highly recommend looking at crests from families that share the same culture or heritage as your character for inspiration.

Creation Process
1. Choose a colour palette and do not feel limited to 1-2 colours. These are the seven colours commonly used in British heraldry:

• Red (Gules) = Military fortitude and magnanimity
• Blue (Azure) =Loyalty and truth
• Black (Sable) = Constancy, and often grief
• Green (Vert) = Hope, joy and loyalty in love
• Purple (Purpure) = Royal majesty, sovereignty and justice
• Gold (Or) = Worthy ambition
• Silver (Argent) Peace and sincerity

2. Choose animals and/or plants to associate with your family. Various sites provide an extensive list, such as Armorial Gold. Here are some examples:

• Lions were thought to be kingly beasts that represent majesty, strength, justice, might and courage. You can find them on England's coat of arms as well as on many other English CoAs.
• Apples typically signified peace, felicity and liberality.
• Swords often represented authority, power, protection, strength, and courage. They were commonly associated with knighthood and chivalry.
• Scales of justice typically symbolised righteousness. May be associated with various deities such as Justitia (roman goddess) and Nemesis (greek goddess).

3. [OPTIONAL] Choose a family motto.
Think of this as a slogan for your character's family. It was often used to rally people, but it can be any phrase that captures the essence of the family. A motto for a family with famous, powerful duellists is likely very different from the motto of a family known for their knowledge and research. Mottos can be in any language (just remember to provide a translation somewhere). British family mottos were often written in English, Latin, French or Gaelic. Examples:

• Fortitudine et prudentiâ (With fortitude and prudence): Be courageous even during adversity and exercise caution where necessary. This family is resilient and brave, may produce combat wizards and strategists.
• Hostis honori invidia (Envy is an enemy to honor): Jealousy undermines one's glory and true worth. Members of this family may hold their heads high. They focus on self-improvement rather than competition.

Lastly, remember that this is a guide and not a rulebook. Have fun with this! Your coat of arms doesn't need to have many (or any) meanings if you prefer. Feel free to ask questions here.