Abstract: A dovetail wedge for retaining conductor bars in stator slots of a large dynamoelectric machine includes an embedding surface layer on surfaces thereof which contact the lamination surfaces in dovetail slots of the stator. The embedding surface layer permits the embossing thereof by irregularities of the surface of the laminations. A range of thicknesses for the embedding layer provides sufficient protection against abrasion and a sufficient lubricity during wedge installation without being so thick that long-term dimensional instability may permit loosening of the conductor bars. The embedding layer is preferably a natural fiber and most preferably a woven or non-woven cotton fiber.