In the Middle Ages patchwork was used for practical purposes. Stitching was already known by the time of the Crusades in Europe. It was used to strengthen clothing. So in the army of William the Conqueror the product made of two sewn flaps with a lining inside was used as the bulletproof vest.
In the 13th century, the tapestries appeared in Germany, which were similar to patchwork quilts. At the same time, the technique of patchwork sewing became widespread in Great Britain and Holland. Blankets from cloth rags were considered a family heirloom there. Quilted blankets began to gain increasing popularity. In the XIV they appeared in Western Europe. A sudden and serious change of climate made the quilts permanent. The cold snap was not observed in Southern Europe so patchwork quilts remained as decorations.
