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Short answer
The selvedge is the finished edge along each long side of a fabric roll, woven more tightly so the fabric does not fray. It often carries printed text such as the brand, design and colour, plus colour dots or registration marks. Because it is tighter than the body of the fabric, curtain makers usually trim it, clip it or hide it in a seam so it does not pucker.
Why is the selvedge different?
On the loom, the weft thread turns back at each edge. Extra or stronger warp threads there make a firm, self-finished edge that stops the cloth unravelling. That tighter edge can shrink or behave differently from the rest of the fabric, which is why it is rarely left in a visible hem.
What does the printing on the selvedge mean?
- Brand and design name: identifies the collection.
- Colour name or number: the colourway.
- Colour dots or squares: on printed fabrics, one for each ink used, showing the colours in the design.
- Registration marks: small marks used to align the print.
Tip
Keep a small piece of selvedge from each fabric you use. It records the collection and colour for future repairs or matching cushions. See How to Store Curtains and Spare Fabric.
How do curtain makers treat the selvedge?
- Up the roll: selvedges run down the sides; they are trimmed or clipped and turned into side hems, or hidden in seams where widths are joined.
- Railroaded: the selvedges become the top and bottom, so they disappear into the heading and hem. See Railroaded Fabric Explained.
- Clipping: small cuts along a tight selvedge release it so the fabric hangs flat.
- Width: the fabric's quoted width usually runs selvedge to selvedge; the usable width can be slightly less. See Fabric Width Explained.
Watch out
A selvedge left tight in a side hem can make a curtain edge pull, pucker or hang short after washing.
Frequently asked questions
What is a selvedge?
The finished, tightly woven edge along each long side of a fabric roll, which stops it fraying.
Should you cut off the selvedge?
Usually, or clip it and hide it in a seam or hem, because its tighter weave can pucker.
What does the writing on the selvedge mean?
It usually gives the brand, design and colour, and on prints, dots showing each ink colour.
Is fabric width measured including the selvedge?
Usually yes. The usable width can be slightly less once the selvedges are trimmed.
Curtain maker, upholsterer or designer?
Specifications are public on every collection page. JOTEX dealers can log in for live stock and pricing, and our team can send samples or open a dealer account.