Selvage- real newbie question...
 

OK - so I used the selvage in a few of my blocks on accident. Do I need to redo them? Will this shrink differently and ruin the quilt? Urgh - I am such a dork...

I have done the same. Too many times to admit to. Yes, it will shrink different than the rest of the fabric. Maybe not as bad as you expect. Chances are that you will not notice it once the quilt is washed and loved. Unless you are putting the quilt in a quilt show, I would not worry too much about it. Just watch to see how it turns out and whether you can live with it the next time it happens. Welcome to the wonderful world of quilting. Hope you find this bug is a very hard one to get rid of.

I use it sometimes, have never had any problems. Once its quilted, it seems to be secure. Don't worry!

You all made me smile. Real big. Thanks!

Selvedge usually shrink differently because it is more tightly woven than the rest of the fabric. You don't say how many blocks have the selvedge on them. If a lot and depending on the use of the quilt you might clip the edge threads on the selvedge to release edge a bit. Uusally it is the first thread on the edge that shrinks the most. It also depends on the length of the edge. Clipping the first one or two threads in a few places probably will take care of it.

I've even used it on purpose. It didn't shrink different either.

Yes, it shrinks differently and you absolutly can clip into the selvage at about one inch intervals to help release the fibers and loosen it up a bit when washed. If you have a 1/4" seam cut through a little over half way through the selvage and you should be fine.

I have done this too so your in the club with a ot of others!
peace

I didn't know for years that you weren't supposed to use it..I even used it in the quilt top...So far never noticed any problems.. (Knock Wood)

It happens! I would leave them in your blocks. If you are afraid that the selvage will shrink differently than the rest of the block, clip the selvages a few threads. If you have pinking shears, just pink the very edges of the selvages.

Not to worry it will be fine!!!!