Selvedge

Selvedge (or selvage, meaning 'self-edge') refers to the tightly woven, self-finished edges of fabric produced on traditional shuttle looms. While modern projectile looms cut fabric edges (requiring serging to prevent fraying), shuttle looms create a clean, finished edge—typically with distinctive colored threads. Selvedge became synonymous with premium denim because the narrower shuttle looms produce denser, more characterful fabric that fades beautifully over time. Japanese mills like Kurabo, Kaihara, and Collect in Okayama prefecture became famous for preserving selvedge production as American mills industrialized. In streetwear and denim culture, selvedge indicates investment in traditional craftsmanship over efficiency: garments cost more because production is slower and fabric more expensive. The term has expanded beyond denim—selvedge shirt fabrics and selvedge details signal quality commitment generally. Checking for selvedge (visible when cuffs are rolled) became a way to verify premium denim claims.