SELVAGES Meaning and
Definition
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Selvages, also spelled selvedges, refer to the finished, self-edge of a woven fabric. They are the narrow, tightly woven strips that run parallel to the length of the fabric on both sides. Selvages are created during the weaving process and are considered the most stable and structurally sound part of the fabric.
The main purpose of selvages is to prevent the edges of the fabric from unraveling or fraying. They are usually tightly woven and often slightly different in texture and appearance from the rest of the fabric. The selvages tend to be more durable and less prone to stretching or shrinking compared to the body of the fabric.
Selvages are important for various reasons. They provide stability and strength to fabrics, ensuring that they maintain their desired shape and structure. They also make it easier to cut and sew the fabric without worrying about unraveling or fraying edges. Additionally, the selvages can provide valuable information about the fabric, such as the manufacturer's name, the fabric type, or the fiber content, which can be useful for designers, manufacturers, and consumers.
In sewing and crafting, selvages are often trimmed off before using the fabric, as they can be dense and rigid. However, they can be useful for reinforcement, decorative purposes, or even as a design element in certain projects.
Common Misspellings for SELVAGES
Etymology of SELVAGES
The word selvages is derived from the Old English word sylfe or selfe, which means self, same. In the context of fabric, it refers to the self-edge of woven fabric that prevents it from unraveling or fraying. The word evolved over time, and in Middle English, it became selvidge or selvedge, which ultimately transformed into the modern spelling selvage.
Similar spelling words for SELVAGES
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