Viking Winningas, Diamond Twill, 7 m Length, var. colours

Winningas / Leg Wraps Fabric, Diamond Twill, 7 m Length

This 7 m long piece of cotton fabric in diamond twill weave was woven on an extra narrow loom and thus has particularly neat selvedges. It is 10 cm wide and can be used to craft leg wraps, belts or ornamental braids on garments. The 7 m band length is just right for a pair of leg wraps.

Textile bands with woven-in patterns were quite popular throughout the Middle Ages and even before. They were a status symbol and at times very elaborately crafted. The ornamental braids that adorned the hems and neckline of outer garments were often woven on so-called tablets. Leg wraps, also known as winningas or puttees, were woven on narrow looms. A staple piece of Germanic clothing, winningas were wound over the trousers from the ankle to below the knee and served as a substitute for socks. However, they were much more than a means to keep warm, as they also protected the legs from injury. They were worn by both men and women.

Diamond twill is characterized by a small pattern of lozenges, arranged in offset rows, which becomes particularly apparent when contrasting colours are used in warp and weft. As this weave gives the fabric good crossways elasticity, diamond twill leg wraps are particularly easy to put on and comfortable to wear.

Surviving examples of this twill weave, which was quite common, are e.g. the Thorsberg trousers (3rd c.) or the apron dress from Birka, grave 973 (9th-10th c.).

Details:
- Material: 100% cotton
- Dimensions: approx. 700 cm long, 10 cm wide
- Available colours: brown/natural, green/light green
- Care instructions: We recommend hand wash.

As authentic as possible, as modern as necessary!
This piece of fabric is part of Battle-Merchant's line of period clothing and medieval garments for men, women and children. From the first sketch to the last stitch, this garment was planned, designed and handcrafted with particular attention to detail. Our clothes are modeled (sometimes accurately, sometimes less so) on historical examples, grave finds and original museum pieces where they exist. We always endeavour to keep the necessary adjustments to today's standards, e.g. in terms of size and manufacturing process, to a minimum. Just see for yourself!