Things Medieval — Bags and Pouches

Various styles of bags and pouches I have made and will make on request.

Belt pouches

These lobed pouches were very common and popular through the 14th and 15th century, and prove to be a handy sort of size. They can be plain or decorated, and generally are brown or black. Very frequently men in civilian clothes have a dagger thrust down behind the bag. A late 14th century style was to wear the pouch at the front, rather than the side, with a ballock dagger to emphasise the phallic appearance.

You will notice that one of these lobed pouches has the side folded in, the others folded out. Both are seen in period illustrations. For thicker, stiffer leather it is best to fold the sides in. This makes a more rigid container. Thinner or softer leather it is best to fold the sides out, which allows the container to bulge more if stuffed full. The drawback to the latter design, though, is that there is a gap at the side into which rain can fall.