Three Terms About Fabric to Know

These three terms are useful when looking for high quality and yet discounted fabrics, sometimes called remnants. Keeping them out of landfills has become more important as fabric production increases as well as its unsold excesses.    

Remnants of Fabric


End of bolt” refers to the last portion of fabric that is remaining on a roll or bolt. As yardage is cut and bought, the end of the bolt or roll nears.  A small amount remaining may be a few inches to a yard or more.

End of bolt is essentially the remnants or leftovers of a fabric roll. Due to the smaller quantity and the desire to sell these remnants, fabric stores may offer end of bolt materials at a discounted price compared to the regular price per yard.

“Offcut” fabrics refers to the odd pieces (or one piece) left when the large pieces are cut. Frequently this means the fabric on the bolt by the selvedge, after fabric has been cut warp-wise.

“Deadstock” fabric refers to unused, surplus textile materials that have been left over from production runs or discontinued stock from fabric manufacturers or fashion brands. These fabrics are often left in warehouses and become discarded waste.

All these terms can be translated into Spanish as “tela de excedente” or “tela de remanente.”  The translation becomes more accurate when you use it in context. 

For examples:  

 Tela de excedente: This translation emphasizes the surplus or excess nature of the fabric.  For example, in Spanish it would mean “The deadstock fabric was sufficient to make another collection by the designer.”

Tela de remanente: This translation highlights the remnant or leftover aspect of the fabric.  In Spanish it would mean “The end of bolt fabric was not enough to make another man’s suit after the designer finished cutting pieces.”

As an upcycler of denim, these are additional valuable sources to save money while helping the environment. Even common sewists should know these terms and find these wonderful sources of fabric!