Selvage
In textile manufacturing, selvage (also spelled selvedge) refers to the self-finished edges of a fabric. It is the narrow strip along each side of the fabric that runs parallel to the warp (longitudinal) direction. The selvage is formed during the weaving process when the weft (transverse) yarns turn at the fabric's edge and loop back into the body of the fabric. The selvage is typically denser and more tightly woven than the rest of the fabric, resulting in a clean, non-fraying edge.
The purpose of the selvage is to prevent the fabric from unraveling or fraying along the edges. It provides stability and strength to the fabric, allowing it to be easily handled during production, cutting, and sewing processes. The selvage also serves as a reference point for aligning and straightening the fabric during pattern cutting and garment construction.
Selvages can vary in appearance depending on the weaving technique and the type of loom used. In some cases, the selvage may have a distinctive colored stripe or pattern, which is often used as a branding or identification mark by manufacturers. This colored selvage is particularly common in denim fabrics, where the selvage edge is highly valued for its authenticity and vintage appeal.
The top users and manufacturers of selvage fabrics are often associated with high-quality, artisanal, and niche markets. These companies prioritize traditional craftsmanship, attention to detail, and the use of premium materials. One notable user of selvage fabrics is the denim industry, which has a strong focus on producing high-end jeans. Brands like Levi's, Japan Blue, and Rogue Territory are known for their selvedge denim offerings. These companies often source selvage denim from specialized mills that employ traditional shuttle looms, which are slower but produce fabrics with distinctive selvage edges.
Apart from the denim industry, there are also manufacturers that specialize in producing selvage fabrics for various applications. Some of these companies include Cone Mills, a historic denim mill in the United States known for its high-quality selvage denim; Albini Group, an Italian textile company renowned for its luxury shirting fabrics with selvage edges; and Liberty of London, a British fabric house famous for its intricately designed selvage fabrics, particularly in the realm of floral prints.
Selvage fabrics are highly sought after by artisans, tailors, and crafters who value the uniqueness, durability, and heritage associated with these materials. They are commonly used for tailored garments, such as suits, jackets, and trousers, where the selvage edges are often showcased as a mark of craftsmanship and quality. Additionally, selvage fabrics find applications in home furnishings, accessories, and specialty items like bags, wallets, and shoes.
In recent years, selvage fabrics have gained popularity among conscious consumers who appreciate the sustainability and durability of these materials. The long-lasting nature of selvage fabrics reduces waste and contributes to a more sustainable fashion industry. As a result, some emerging designers and small-scale manufacturers have started to embrace selvage fabrics as a way to differentiate their products and cater to environmentally conscious consumers.
In conclusion, selvage is the self-finished edge of a fabric formed during the weaving process. It provides strength, stability, and a clean edge to the fabric, preventing fraying or unraveling. The top users and manufacturers of selvage fabrics are often associated with the denim industry and companies that prioritize traditional craftsmanship and high-quality materials. Selvage fabrics are valued for their uniqueness, durability, and sustainability, making them sought after by artisans, tailors, and conscious consumers alike.
Salvage
A selvedge that varies in width.
NOTE:
Variations in weft tension or lack of control of the warp ends within the selvedge may result in such unevenness. Pulled-in selvedges are caused by pulling in of the edges by isolated tight picks. Dog-legged selvedges are the result of the characteristic gradual change in weft tension that occurs as some types of weft pirn are unwound, regular changes in selvedge width being present at each pirn change.
Selvage or Selvedge
The outer edge of both sides of a woven fabric where the weft turns to go back across and through the warp. This is a stiffer and denser woven area of about 1/3-1/2 inch and is usually trimmed off and not sewn into a quilt.
Selvage or Selvedge
The thin compressed edge of a woven fabric which runs parallel to the warp yarns and prevents raveling. It is usually woven, utilizing tougher yarns and a tighter construction than the rest of the fabric. Other names for it are listing, self-edge, raw edge.
Selvage or Selvedge
The thin compressed edge of a woven fabric which runs parallel to the warp yarns and prevents raveling. It is usually woven, utilizing tougher yarns and a tighter construction than the rest of the fabric.
Selvage or Selvedge
The edge of woven fabric that is so formed as to prevent raveling. The finish may be different or the same as that of the fabric.
Selvage
The edge on either side of a woven or flat-knitted fabric, often of different threads and/or weave, so finished to prevent raveling.
Salvage
Narrow edge of woven fabric (warp direction) usually of stronger yarns or denser construction than body of coth.
Selvage
The woven edge portion of a fabric parallel to the warp is called selvage.
Selvage
Edge of woven fabric, often of different threads and/or weave, to prevent raveling.
Selvage
Also called Selvedge