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What is "Selvedge" - Definition & Explanation

Selvedge
Selvedge (or selvage) is a term used in textiles to describe the self-finished edge of woven fabric. It is often considered a mark of high quality in textiles and is highly prized by those in the textile industry. The selvedge is created by the weft yarns looping back at the end of each row, creating a finished edge that does not fray or unravel.

The term "selvedge" comes from "self-edge," referring to the edge of the fabric that is created by the loom itself. Selvedge edges are often distinguished by a contrasting thread color or a decorative pattern, and may include the manufacturer's name or logo. These details can be important for identifying the origin of the fabric, as well as its quality and authenticity.

One of the advantages of using selvedge fabric is that it tends to be more durable and long-lasting than other types of fabrics. This is because the selvedge provides extra stability and support to the edges of the fabric, preventing fraying and unraveling. In addition, selvedge fabric is often made from high-quality materials and crafted using traditional techniques, which can contribute to its overall durability and strength.

Another advantage of selvedge fabric is that it often has a unique and distinctive look that sets it apart from other fabrics. The decorative edges created by the looping weft yarns can add an interesting detail to clothing or other textile items, and can be used to create decorative hems or other features.

There are two main types of selvedge edges: closed selvedge and open selvedge. Closed selvedge edges are created when the weft yarns loop back and create a tight, finished edge that is typically only found on narrower fabrics. Open selvedge edges are created when the weft yarns are left loose and exposed, creating a more decorative and open edge that is often used on wider fabrics.

While selvedge fabric is highly regarded for its quality and durability, it can be more expensive than other types of fabric due to the time and effort required to create the finished edges. However, many people in the textile industry consider the added cost to be worth it for the quality and unique characteristics of the fabric.

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in selvedge denim, a type of denim fabric that is made using traditional weaving techniques and features the distinctive selvedge edges. Selvedge denim is highly prized by denim enthusiasts and collectors, who appreciate its unique look, durability, and historical significance.

In conclusion, selvedge is a term used to describe the self-finished edge of woven fabric, which is created by the looping weft yarns at the end of each row. Selvedge fabric is highly regarded for its durability, unique look, and traditional craftsmanship, and is often used in high-quality clothing and other textile items. While it can be more expensive than other types of fabric, many people in the textile industry consider the added cost to be worth it for the quality and distinctive characteristics of the fabric.
Selvedge
The longitudinal edges of a fabric that are formed during weaving with the weft not only turning at the edges but also passing continuously across the width of the fabric from edge.


NOTE:


Selvedges are often up to 20mm wide and may differ from the body of the fabric in construction or weave or both, or they may be of exactly the same construction as the body of the fabric and be separated from it by yarns of a different colour. Although selvedges may contain fancy effects or may have brand names or fabric descriptions woven into or printed on them, their main purposes is to give strength to the edges of the fabric so that it will behave satisfactorily in weaving and subsequent processes.


a) Leno Edge


A set of threads that interlace with a leno weave either at the edge or in the body of a fabric. In the latter case, it prevents fraying when the fabric is severed in the direction of the warp.


NOTE:


When in the body of the fabric, a leno edge is often referred to as a "central selvedge". (See also splits)


b) Sealed Edge


The cut edge of a fabric that has been treated by heat or chemical means to prevent fraying of the edge.


c) Shuttleless-Loom Edge


1. In some cases, either one or both edges are different from the normal woven selvedge in that the weft is held in position at the turn by threads other than the warp threads, e.g. by the use of an independent thread to lock the weft in position at the edge, or by interlocking of the weft threads. In narrow-fabric weaving this type of edge is often called a "needleloom selvedge".


2. In other cases, the weft is severed just beyond the edge of the fabric and the cut end is tucked into the shed (q.v.) formed on the next pick.

Selvedge
The longitudinal edge of a fabric or a garment panel produced during knitting. The term can also be applied to fabric in which the yarn is cut rather than turned at the end of a course of loops.
Selvedge
A narrow flat woven border resulting at both lengthwise sides when the crosswise threads reverse direction.
Selvedge
The longitudinal edges of a fabric formed in such a way that the component thread ravel.
Selvedge
The side edges of a finished piece of cloth that are reinforced to prevent unravelling.

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