Before we break down the lines of information that is supplied by the Vendor, there are a few basic fabric terms to know that will be referred to.

  • Selvage (Selvedge) - The tightly woven outer edges of the fabric that run vertical to the lengthwise grain. It prevents fraying and is used as a reference for determining the face of the fabric.

  • Grain - The direction of the threads in the fabric. There are three main types: lengthwise, crosswise, and bias.

  • Lengthwise Grain (Straight grain or Warp) - Threads that run parallel to the selvage. These are the strongest threads and usually run up and down a drapery.

  • Crosswise Grain (Weft or Filling) - Threads that run perpendicular to the selvage. These have a bit more give or stretch than the lengthwise grain as they interlace over and under the warp yarns.

  • Bias - A 45-degree angle to the grain (diagonal across the fabric). It is used when flexibility and stretch are needed for curves and is often used for welt, bias banding, or swags.

  • Width of Material (WOM) (or Width of Fabric WOF) The measurement across the fabric from selvage to selvage. 54" and 118" are common fabric widths for decorator fabrics, but it can be anything from 45" to 130" wide.

  • Repeat, Vertical and Horizontal - The measurement of a fabric’s pattern before it repeats again. Important for aligning prints.