Pronunciation: [sˈɛlvɪd͡ʒ] (IPA) 
The word "selvage" is spelled with an "e" at the end instead of "age" because it comes from the word "selvedge," which is the British spelling. Selvage refers to the finished edge of a woven fabric that prevents fraying. In IPA phonetic transcription, selvage is pronounced /ˈsɛlvɪdʒ/. It is important to spell correctly since it is a common term used in the textile industry, and misspelling it may lead to misunderstandings or confusion.
Selvage (or selvage edge) refers to the narrow, usually woven, border or edge of a fabric that is created to prevent fraying or unraveling. It is commonly found along the lengthwise edges of a textile material, such as a woven fabric or a knitted cloth. The selvage runs parallel to the warp threads, which are the vertically aligned fibers of the fabric.
Typically, the selvage is formed by utilizing a different weaving technique compared to the rest of the fabric. These techniques involve either a tighter weave, a different thread material, or a reinforced structure to make it more durable. As a result, the selvage edge is often denser and less prone to fraying compared to the body of the fabric.
The selvage plays a vital role in the production process as it helps maintain the integrity and shape of the fabric during weaving, transportation, and subsequent garment construction. It allows for more efficient cutting and shaping of the material since it can resist unraveling. In some cases, textile designers incorporate decorative elements or labeling within the selvage for branding or identifying purposes.
In sewing and crafting, the selvage is often trimmed or removed before using the fabric in a project. However, some designers choose to include the selvage as part of the finished product, utilizing it as an interesting design element, or as a reminder of the fabric's origin and quality.
The border or edge of cloth which is formed in weaving it.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "selvage" (often spelled "selvedge" in British English) comes from the Middle English term "selvidge", which can be traced back to the Old English word "sīd" (meaning "side") and the suffix "-lig" (meaning "like"). The combination of these elements formed the term "sīdlig", which referred to a "self-sided" or "self-finished" edge. Over time, "sīdlig" evolved into "selvidge" and eventually became "selvage" in Modern English. In the context of textiles, "selvage" refers to the self-finished edge of a woven fabric, which prevents it from unraveling or fraying.
