top of page

This 7 m long piece of cotton fabric with herringbone pattern was woven on an extra narrow loom and thus has particularly neat edges. 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 Viking 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.

Herringbone (also called broken twill weave) is characterized by a small V-shaped pattern resembling ears of wheat or fish bones. This weave becomes particularly apparent when contrasting colours are used in warp and weft. As it gives the fabric good crossways elasticity, herringbone-patterned leg wraps are particularly easy to put on and comfortable to wear.

This weave was often used, for example in Hedeby and Birka.

Viking Winningas, Herringbone Pattern, 7 m Length Red Yellow

£22.50Price
  • - Dimensions: approx. 700 cm long, 10 cm wide
    - Care instructions: We recommend hand wash.

  • - Material: 100% cotton

RELATED PRODUCTS

bottom of page