The terms you should know to be a true DENIMHEAD. ">
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// Denim 101 // GLOSSARY

The terms you should know to be a true DENIMHEAD.

BROKEN TWILL
First used by Wrangler in 1964, it is made by reversing a diagonal weave of twill every few warp ends to form a random design. The reduced torque keeps the fabric straight.

BULL DENIM
Stronger than canvas, this durable twill is made from coarse yarns. It is naturally dyed sand-color, and is usually used for workwear.

INDIGO
Three plants are used to naturally produce this blue vat dyestuff?Leguminosae (pea family), Cruciferae (cabbage family), and Polygonaceae (buckwheat family).

LEFTHAND TWILL
Used by Japanese high-end brands, it's softer than the more common righthand woven denim.

OVERDYE
A fabric dye process used on denim fabrics, most frequently indigo jeans which are then overdyed black.

RISE
The length of fabric from the crotch seam to the top of the waistband.

RIVETS
The metal tabs that are placed at the stress points to prevent tearing, most commonly on pockets.

ROPE DYING
Considered to be the best method to dye indigo yarns. Threads of denim yarn are twisted into a rope, which are dipped in indigo dye multiple times to get various shades of blue.

SELVAGE
Originally called “self-edge,” it is woven on antique shuttle looms, and is recognizable by the inside seam having a white edge that prevents it from unraveling.

WHISKERING
A fading of the ridges and creases in the hip, crotch, and knees that gives the appearance of aged denim.

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