Boston1954

No, not a flaw in the middle. I have a number of older fabrics that were manufactured by running on some sort of machine. I guess the machine clamps down to hold it steady to be printed. I have managed a number of times to cut my fabric close to the edge. (trying not to waste it). I did not realize it until I have sewn several pieces together that they are there. Once I had a top half done before I noticed it.

Do they still do this? I buy mostly batiks now, so I don't know.

cathyvv

Haven't thought about it. I've seen it, bought fabric like that, but honestly don't know how long ago I bought it.

SusieQOH

I've seen what you're talking about but it's been a long time.

Tartan

I have seen it in the selvage sometimes but I always cut my selvages off.

NJ Quilter

If the holes are tiny enough would they not close up after washing/drying?? If it were for a wall hanging that was not going to be laundered I might think differently. But for a quilt that will be washed/dried either before gifting or in general use, would they disappear?? As in, if we rip (oh no!) a seam or 6, those holes close up upon laundering?? Just a thought.

Irishrose2

I have only seen it on knits and fleece lately. Very aggravating when you need the full width.

JustAbitCrazy

It sounds to me that you might be using feedsacks from the 1940's.

Boston1954

I have never even seen a feedsack. These are fabrics from quilt stores. I started quilting in 1992, so it's a while back but not exceedingly so.

bungalow59

A selvedge end with tiny holes is from the hooks used on fabric looms by textile companies during the manufacturing process. They should be cut off just like the opposite selvedge with the fabric info printed on it.
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Lee in Richmond

I agree. I have these holes in some fabrics, even without such an obvious selvedge. They do not close up, so they are part of what you would either cut off or include within the seam allowance.