There are two kinds of sashes often seen in the Boy Scouts: The Merit Badge Sash and The Order of the Arrow Sash.

Both sashes are worn over the right shoulder and are only worn while wearing the Boy Scout uniform (with a few exceptions in the Order of the Arrow).

The Merit Badge Sash simply lays over the left shoulder. There is nothing complex about wearing this sash. It is only worn on formal occasions, such as Courts of Honor.

The Order of the Arrow Sash (OA), of which there are three kinds (Ordeal, Brotherhood, and Vigil), is a bit more complex to wear. This sash is worn over the right shoulder, but under the epaulet and is always worn with the arrow pointing up. It is only worn by OA members when performing or attending formal OA functions. This sash is pictured to the right.