Selvage for Dummies
noun
pronunciation: 'sɛlvɪdʒWhat does Selvage really mean?
Selvage is a term used in the world of textiles and fabrics. It refers to the self-finished, tightly woven edge or border of a fabric, which prevents it from unraveling or fraying. In simpler terms, selvage is the sturdy and neat edge of a piece of cloth that runs parallel to the lengthwise grain. Imagine the selvage as the border fence that keeps the fabric in line and prevents it from coming undone.
Let's dive deeper into the concept of selvage. When you look at a piece of fabric, you will notice that it has different grains. The lengthwise grain, also known as the warp, runs parallel to the selvage. It provides strength and stability to the fabric. On the other hand, the crosswise grain, known as the weft or fill, runs perpendicular to the selvage. These two grains, along with the selvage, determine the structure and behavior of the fabric.
Think of a fabric like a rectangular plot of land, with the selvage as the boundary lines. Just as people use fences to define their property and prevent trespassing, the selvage serves a similar purpose for the fabric. It keeps the fabric intact and ensures it remains as intended, without fraying or unravelling.
Now, let's explore the different uses and advantages of having a selvage. Firstly, the selvage helps in cutting and sewing fabrics. Since it doesn't fray, it provides a clean edge for cutting patterns and sewing seams. It ensures that the fabric retains its original dimensions without distortion or deformation.
Additionally, the selvage holds vital information about the fabric, such as its brand, designer, and even the fabric content. Manufacturers often print this information on the selvage to provide useful details to consumers. So, next time you're shopping for fabric, take a peek at the selvage to gather some information!
Furthermore, selvages can add a decorative touch to a finished project. Some designers and sewists display the selvage on the outer edges of a garment or use it as a design element within the item itself. It's like incorporating a unique border or trim into your creation.
It's essential to note that not all fabrics have selvages. Some fabrics, especially those that are knitted or have unfinished edges, may not possess a selvage. However, fabrics like denim, cotton, silk, and many others typically have noticeable and well-defined selvages.
In summary, selvage is the sturdy, finished edge of a fabric that runs parallel to its lengthwise grain. It prevents fraying, provides stability, and aids in cutting and sewing. It also holds useful information about the fabric and can even be used as a decorative element. So, the next time you're working with fabrics, keep an eye out for the trusty selvage!
Revised and Fact checked by Steven Jackson on 2023-10-30 02:27:27
Selvage In a sentece
Learn how to use Selvage inside a sentece
- When you buy a new pair of jeans, you may notice that the edges of the fabric are neatly finished. These finished edges are called selvage.
- If you look closely at the edge of a woven blanket, you will see a clean, smooth line that prevents the threads from unraveling. This line is the selvage.
- When you visit a fabric store, you might see rolls of cloth with different patterns. Next to each roll, there is often a label that mentions whether the fabric has a selvage.
- Imagine you are making a scarf using a knitting loom. Once you finish knitting the rows, you can notice a firm and stable edge on both sides of the scarf, which is the selvage.
- When you receive a homemade quilt as a gift, you can inspect the edges of the quilt and observe a finished and durable border. This border is known as the selvage.
Selvage Synonyms
Words that can be interchanged for the original word in the same context.
Selvage Hypernyms
Words that are more generic than the original word.