Why abolitionist uses quilts and patterns to communicate with fugitives slave instead of posters?

Abolitionists used quilts and patterns to communicate with fugitive slaves as a discreet and creative means of conveying important information without attracting attention. Unlike posters, which could easily be seen and reported, quilts could be hung in homes or used in everyday life, allowing messages to blend into normal activities. Patterns and symbols carried specific meanings, offering guidance on safe routes or hidden resources. This method of communication effectively protected both the messengers and the escapees from detection.