Pockets as we know them today, did not exist in the Middle Ages. In Medieval times, a pocket was a separate small bag or pouch attached to clothing, so that people could carry their precious items around with them. These bags were used primarily for the carrying of tools, and were knotted around the waist or suspended from a belt. 

Small items were also sewn inside the folds of people’s clothing, while others were hung directly from belts or girdles. Little purses, satchels or pouches were therefore significantly useful and important for carrying a host of items, including money. Small ornamental bags were designed specifically to be attached to one’s clothing. They are frequently depicted in Medieval paintings and manuscript illuminations, and were used to carry quill pens, ink wells, books, cutlery and other personal possessions.  

Pouches or bags were also used to carry documents, especially when travelling. Travellers, merchants and pilgrims traversed long distances on foot, so pouches and purses were often made from durable materials such as canvas or leather, and featured straps for comfortable carrying. Hard leather cases were used to protect fragile or precious items like combs, mirrors and ink wells. They were also used to protect precious scrolls and maps from damage and moisture while transporting them. Most typical scroll cases were shaped like cylindrical tubes, with the inside made of birch bark and covered with leather on the outside. A scroll case was watertight, protecting its contents from the elements during travel. It could be used not only to safely transport documents, but writing instruments as well. A sealed leather case provided excellent protection from adventuring hazards such as falls, frost, wind, rain and fire.

Leather craftsmen and tanners used cutting techniques to create decorative patterns on pouches or satchels, producing a variety of coloured or dyed leather, as well as embossed and embroidered leather goods. 

The two-sheet DIY printable is a cutting pattern or template showing two styles of Mini Medieval Scroll Pouches. One is a belt pouch that was hung from a belt on the right side of the body. The other is a long-strapped pouch that could be carried over the shoulder or worn diagonally across the body. 

They are both fully functional and so much fun! Perfect for 1:12 scale miniature castles, apothecaries, Medieval dioramas and every dollhouse library! Available in Lady Miniac’s shop. 

For a free DIY video tutorial showing the step-by-step assembly of this printable, please see my YouTube channel link https://youtu.be/szkdxIKFUg4