What Is Selvedge Denim? | Everything You Need To Know

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Introduction About Denim

Denim is a sturdy cotton twill fabric that is typically blue in colour. It is most commonly used to make jeans but is also used to make a wide range of clothing items, such as jackets, skirts, and overalls. Denim is known for its durability and resistance to tearing, making it a popular choice for clothing that is meant to withstand hard wear. The fabric was originally made in the city of Nimes, France, and was named after the French phrase “serge de Nimes,” which means “serge from Nimes.” Today, denim is produced all over the world and is an important part of many fashion industries.

How Is Denim Made?

Denim is made from cotton fibres that are spun into yarn and then woven into a fabric. The cotton yarn is dyed blue using indigo dye, which gives denim its characteristic colour. The yarn is then woven into a twill pattern on a loom, which creates the diagonal ribbing that is characteristic of denim fabric. The fabric is then treated to give it different finishes and textures, such as a faded or distressed look. The finished denim fabric is then cut and sewn into the various clothing items that are made from it.

History Of Selvedge Denim

In the 19th and early 20th centuries, selvedge denim was the standard for denim production. However, as the demand for denim grew, manufacturers began to switch to cheaper, faster production methods that involved using projectile looms, which could not produce selvedge denim. This led to the decline of selvedge denim, and it became a rarity in the denim market.

Selvedge Vs Non-Selvedge Denim

The main difference between selvedge and non-selvedge denim is the way in which they are produced. Selvedge denim is made on traditional shuttle looms, which produce a clean, tight weave and a distinct, visible edge on the fabric. Non-selvedge denim, on the other hand, is typically made on projectile looms, which do not produce the same tight weave or visible edge. As a result, selvedge denim is often considered to be of higher quality than non-selvedge denim. Selvedge denim is also typically made from 100% cotton and is left untreated or given minimal treatment to preserve its natural colour and texture. Non-selvedge denim, on the other hand, can be made from a blend of different fabrics and is often heavily treated to give it different finishes and textures.

Price Compare About Selvedge Denim And Regular Denim?

Selvedge denim is generally more expensive than regular denim, due to the higher quality of the fabric and the fact that it is made on traditional shuttle looms. The exact price difference between selvedge and regular denim can vary depending on the brand and the type of jeans that you are looking at. In general, you can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $300 or more for a pair of selvedge denim jeans, whereas regular denim jeans can be found for as little as $20 to $50. However, it is important to keep in mind that the price of selvedge denim does not necessarily reflect its quality. Some non-selvedge denim jeans may be just as well-made and durable as selvedge denim jeans and can offer good value for the price.

Is Selvedge Denim Worth Buying?

Whether or not selvedge denim is worth buying depends on your personal preferences and priorities. Selvedge denim is generally considered to be of higher quality than non-selvedge denim and is prized for its durability, unique characteristics, and classic, vintage appearance. If you are looking for a high-quality pair of jeans that will last a long time and develop a unique patina over time, selvedge denim may be worth the investment. However, selvedge denim can also be more expensive than non-selvedge denim, so if cost is a major consideration for you, you may want to weigh the potential benefits of selvedge denim against the added cost.

How To Care Selvedge Denim?

Selvedge denim, like any other type of denim, should be cared for properly to ensure that it lasts a long time and maintains its quality. Here are a few care tips for selvedge denim:

  • Wash your selvedge denim infrequently. Denim experts recommend washing selvedge denim only once every few months or even less frequently, to allow the fabric to develop a unique patina and to prevent it from fading or shrinking.
  • When you do wash your selvedge denim, turn it inside out and wash it in cold water on a gentle cycle. This will help to preserve the colour and prevent the denim from shrinking.
  • Avoid using bleach or other harsh chemicals on your selvedge denim, as these can damage the fabric and cause it to lose its colour.
  • Avoid putting your selvedge denim in the dryer, as high heat can cause the fabric to shrink and lose its shape. Instead, hang your selvedge denim to air dry, or lay it flat on a drying rack.
  • If your selvedge denim gets wrinkled, smooth out the wrinkles by hand rather than using an iron, as the heat from an iron can damage the fabric.

By following these care tips, you can help your selvedge denim to last a long time and maintain its quality.