selvages

Woven edge strips

Selvages are the finished edges of a woven fabric, running parallel to the warp threads and designed to prevent unraveling.

They're typically tighter and slightly different in texture than the main fabric.

Sewers usually trim them off or hide them in seams: Cut along the selvage before laying out your pattern.

Also spelled selvedges.

weaving

warp

Bend from true form

weftCrosswise loom threads
loomFabric-making frame
shuttleShort-distance transport

bobbin · threads · yarn · tapestry · handloom · jacquard · twill · herringbone · backstrap · weaver

structure

border

Outer edge or limit

marginEdge of a page
rimCircular outer boundary
boundaryLine marking a limit

perimeter · fringe

finishing

hemming

Sewing a fabric edge

sergingEdge-binding stitch technique
overlockingFabric edge-sealing stitch
bindingLegally or morally required

edging · fraying · seaming · stitching · trimming · pinked · rolled · folded · secured · reinforced

Opposites

edge finish type

selvagesraw edges

Unhemmed fabric boundaries

fabric region

selvagesweft

Crosswise loom threads

interior · center · yardage

Family

selvage, selvaged

Familiarity: Top 1,000,000
Profile: Used worldwide · Timeless · Concrete · Rated G