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Odisha CHSE +2 Vocational PDFM (RMPDFM) study materials
Odisha CHSE +2 Vocational PDFM (RMPDFM) study resources

Odisha CHSE +2 Vocational PDFM (RMPDFM) practice questions

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Question 1Trade Theory and Fundamentals of the Vocational Trade (PDFM/RMPDFM)

In pattern drafting, which body measurement is taken horizontally around the fullest part of the bust and kept parallel to the floor?

  1. Bust circumference Correct answer.
  2. Back neck width
  3. Shoulder width
  4. Armhole depth

Explanation

Bust circumference is measured around the fullest part of the bust with the tape held level and parallel to the floor, because this value drives the bust dart intake and the front bodice width. Shoulder width is a horizontal measurement taken across the back from shoulder tip to shoulder tip.

Question 2Trade Theory and Fundamentals of the Vocational Trade (PDFM/RMPDFM)

A basic bodice block is drafted with a bust circumference of 92 cm using a close-fitting ease of 5 cm. What is the total pattern bust circumference before any dart manipulation?

  1. 87 cm
  2. 102 cm
  3. 97 cm Correct answer.
  4. 92 cm

Explanation

Pattern circumference equals body circumference plus wearing ease, so 92 cm plus 5 cm ease gives 97 cm. The ease is added so the garment can be worn and moved in without strain at the bust.

Question 3Trade Theory and Fundamentals of the Vocational Trade (PDFM/RMPDFM)

Which tool is used to draw smooth, curved lines such as necklines and armholes when drafting a bodice pattern?

  1. Pinking shears
  2. French curve Correct answer.
  3. Tracing wheel
  4. Set square

Explanation

A French curve is a shaped template that guides the pencil through a smooth, continuous curve for necklines, armholes and crotch seams. A set square gives only straight lines and right angles, so it cannot reproduce these curves.

Question 4Trade Theory and Fundamentals of the Vocational Trade (PDFM/RMPDFM)

In garment construction, what is the main purpose of a seam allowance?

  1. To indicate the position of buttons and buttonholes
  2. To record the fabric shrinkage after washing
  3. To provide extra fabric beyond the stitching line for joining and finishing Correct answer.
  4. To mark the grain line on the pattern piece

Explanation

A seam allowance is the margin of fabric between the stitching line and the raw edge, giving room to sew the seam and finish the edges. Without it the pieces could not be joined without reducing the garment size.

Question 5Trade Theory and Fundamentals of the Vocational Trade (PDFM/RMPDFM)

Which stitch class is formed by interlooping one or more loops of thread with themselves, as seen in a single jersey knitted fabric?

  1. Woven
  2. Bonded
  3. Knitted Correct answer.
  4. Braided

Explanation

Knitted structures are built from interlooped yarn loops, which is why single jersey stretches and runs. Woven structures instead interlace two sets of yarns at right angles.

Question 6Trade Theory and Fundamentals of the Vocational Trade (PDFM/RMPDFM)

A pattern piece is marked with a long arrow labelled 'selvedge'. What does this marking instruct the cutter to do?

  1. Place the arrow at 45 degrees to the selvedge
  2. Cut the piece on the bias
  3. Align the arrow parallel to the fabric selvedge Correct answer.
  4. Place the arrow along the crosswise grain

Explanation

The grain-line arrow must be laid parallel to the selvedge so the garment hangs correctly along the lengthwise grain. Placing it off-grain causes twisting and poor drape after stitching.

Question 7Trade Theory and Fundamentals of the Vocational Trade (PDFM/RMPDFM)

Which of the following is a natural cellulosic fibre commonly used in apparel?

  1. Cotton Correct answer.
  2. Polyester
  3. Wool
  4. Silk

Explanation

Cotton is a seed hair fibre made mainly of cellulose, obtained from the cotton plant. Wool and silk are protein fibres of animal origin, while polyester is a synthetic polymer.

Question 8Trade Theory and Fundamentals of the Vocational Trade (PDFM/RMPDFM)

When laying out pattern pieces on a printed or directional fabric such as corduroy, what is the standard requirement?

  1. Pieces placed in opposite directions to save fabric
  2. Pieces cut only on the bias
  3. All pieces placed in the same direction along the pile Correct answer.
  4. Pieces cut with the grain arrow at 90 degrees to the selvedge

Explanation

Directional fabrics show a different shade or pile direction when viewed from opposite ends, so every pattern piece must be laid in the same direction to keep the garment shade uniform. Reversing any piece would create a visible tone break at the seam.

Question 9Trade Theory and Fundamentals of the Vocational Trade (PDFM/RMPDFM)

Which industrial sewing machine stitch type is a two-thread lockstitch commonly numbered 301?

  1. Chain stitch
  2. Cover stitch
  3. Lockstitch Correct answer.
  4. Overlock stitch

Explanation

Stitch type 301 is the two-thread lockstitch, where the needle thread and bobbin thread interlock inside the fabric to form a balanced seam. It is the most common seam in garment assembly.

Question 10Trade Theory and Fundamentals of the Vocational Trade (PDFM/RMPDFM)

What is the primary function of a sewing machine needle's scarf?

  1. To pierce the fabric before the point
  2. To reduce heat during high-speed sewing
  3. To allow the bobbin hook to pick up the needle thread loop Correct answer.
  4. To hold the needle in the needle bar

Explanation

The scarf is the short indentation above the eye that lets the rotating hook pass close enough to catch the needle thread and form the lockstitch. Without a scarf the loop could not be picked up reliably.

Question 11Trade Theory and Fundamentals of the Vocational Trade (PDFM/RMPDFM)

A candidate is measuring a client for a ladies' trouser block. Which measurement is taken from the waistline down the side of the body to the desired trouser length?

  1. Outseam (side seam length) Correct answer.
  2. Crotch depth
  3. Hip circumference
  4. Inseam

Explanation

The outseam, or side seam length, is measured from the waist down the side of the leg to the required hem level and sets the finished trouser length. The inseam is measured from the crotch to the hem on the inside of the leg.

Question 12Trade Theory and Fundamentals of the Vocational Trade (PDFM/RMPDFM)

Which of these fabrics would most likely require a ball-point needle when stitching?

  1. Cotton poplin
  2. Organza
  3. Denim
  4. Single jersey knit Correct answer.

Explanation

A ball-point needle has a rounded tip that pushes between knit loops instead of cutting them, preventing ladders and dropped stitches in jersey. Sharp-point needles are used for woven fabrics such as poplin, denim and organza.

Question 13Trade Theory and Fundamentals of the Vocational Trade (PDFM/RMPDFM)

In a shirt, what is the purpose of the yoke?

  1. To finish the sleeve hem
  2. To hold the pocket in place
  3. To stiffen the collar stand
  4. To provide a double layer across the shoulders and give shape and strength Correct answer.

Explanation

The yoke is a shaped panel across the upper back or shoulders that adds a second layer for durability and helps shape the garment over the shoulder line. It is often cut on the bias or with a centre pleat for ease of movement.

Question 14Trade Theory and Fundamentals of the Vocational Trade (PDFM/RMPDFM)

Which dart is used to shape a bodice over the bust and usually runs from the side seam toward the bust point?

  1. Waist dart
  2. Shoulder dart
  3. Elbow dart
  4. Side bust dart Correct answer.

Explanation

The side bust dart starts at the side seam and points toward the bust apex, removing excess fabric so the bodice curves over the bust. It is one of several possible dart positions that all aim at the bust point.

Question 15Trade Theory and Fundamentals of the Vocational Trade (PDFM/RMPDFM)

A pattern is graded from a size 10 base to size 12. Which statement best describes grading?

  1. Changing the fabric type for a larger size
  2. Reducing the seam allowance at the neckline
  3. Increasing or decreasing a pattern proportionally to create a range of sizes Correct answer.
  4. Cutting the fabric on the bias for drape

Explanation

Grading systematically increases or decreases pattern dimensions by fixed increments to produce a full size range from one base pattern. It preserves the fit relationships between sizes rather than redesigning the garment.

Question 16Trade Theory and Fundamentals of the Vocational Trade (PDFM/RMPDFM)

Which finishing method is most suitable for the raw edge of a lightweight, fray-prone woven fabric in a school workshop without an overlock machine?

  1. Pinking and then straight stitching
  2. Zigzag stitching along the edge
  3. Folding the edge under and edge-stitching (turned hem) Correct answer.
  4. Leaving the edge raw

Explanation

Turning the edge under and edge-stitching encloses the raw edge completely, giving a neat, secure finish on lightweight fray-prone fabric without specialist equipment. Zigzag or pinking alone may still allow fraying on very loose weaves.

Question 17Trade Theory and Fundamentals of the Vocational Trade (PDFM/RMPDFM)

What does the term 'ease' refer to in garment fit?

  1. The extra circumference built into a garment beyond the body measurement Correct answer.
  2. The shrinkage of fabric after washing
  3. The amount of fabric lost to seam allowance
  4. The stretch of an elastic waistband

Explanation

Ease is the difference between the body measurement and the finished garment measurement, allowing movement and comfort. Wearing ease is the minimum needed to wear the garment, while design ease is added for a fashionable silhouette.

Question 18Trade Theory and Fundamentals of the Vocational Trade (PDFM/RMPDFM)

A bodice pattern is being converted into a princess seam. What happens to the bust dart in this conversion?

  1. It is doubled in size
  2. It is removed without any shaping
  3. It is moved to the centre front
  4. It is absorbed into the curved princess seam line Correct answer.

Explanation

In a princess seam the bust shaping is redistributed into a curved seam running from the shoulder or armhole past the bust point, so the dart is absorbed into the seam line rather than stitched separately. The garment keeps its three-dimensional shape without a visible dart.

Question 19Trade Theory and Fundamentals of the Vocational Trade (PDFM/RMPDFM)

Which of the following best describes the function of interfacing in a garment?

  1. To add body and stability to areas such as collars and cuffs Correct answer.
  2. To provide warmth in winter garments
  3. To increase the stretch of a knit fabric
  4. To give the garment a decorative print

Explanation

Interfacing is a supporting fabric fused or sewn to the wrong side of a garment part to give it body, shape and stability, especially at collars, cuffs, plackets and waistbands. It is not a decorative or insulating layer.

Question 20Trade Theory and Fundamentals of the Vocational Trade (PDFM/RMPDFM)

Which seam is created by stitching a seam, pressing it open, and then topstitching on either side of the seam line?

  1. Flat-fell seam
  2. Double-stitched seam Correct answer.
  3. Overlock seam
  4. French seam

Explanation

A double-stitched seam presses the seam allowance open and adds parallel rows of topstitching on both sides, which reinforces the seam and becomes a design feature. It is common on jeans and workwear.

Question 21Trade Theory and Fundamentals of the Vocational Trade (PDFM/RMPDFM)

During fitting, a bodice shows diagonal drag lines pulling from the bust toward the side seam. Which alteration is most appropriate?

  1. Increase the side bust dart intake Correct answer.
  2. Reduce the shoulder seam length
  3. Widen the neckline
  4. Shorten the bodice length at the waist

Explanation

Diagonal drag lines radiating from the bust toward the side seam indicate too little fabric over the bust, so the dart must be enlarged to release the strain. Adjusting unrelated areas such as the waist or neckline would not correct the pull.

Question 22Trade Theory and Fundamentals of the Vocational Trade (PDFM/RMPDFM)

Which pressing tool is best for pressing curved seams such as armholes and necklines without flattening the curve?

  1. Tailor's ham Correct answer.
  2. Sleeve board
  3. Point presser
  4. Flat ironing board

Explanation

A tailor's ham is a firmly stuffed curved cushion that supports curved seams so they can be pressed without losing their shape. Pressing a curved seam flat on a board would stretch and distort it.

Question 23Trade Theory and Fundamentals of the Vocational Trade (PDFM/RMPDFM)

Which fibre property explains why cotton garments become stronger when wet?

  1. Low moisture regain
  2. High elongation at break
  3. High crystallinity and hydrogen bonding in the cellulose chains Correct answer.
  4. Thermoplastic behaviour

Explanation

Cotton cellulose chains are highly ordered and form many hydrogen bonds; when water enters the amorphous regions it allows additional hydrogen bonding, raising wet strength by roughly 20-30 percent. This is why cotton can be washed vigorously without damage.

Question 24Trade Theory and Fundamentals of the Vocational Trade (PDFM/RMPDFM)

In a ladies' kurta pattern, what is the standard purpose of the side slit at the hem?

  1. To hold the pocket bag
  2. To attach the collar
  3. To allow ease of movement and prevent strain at the hip Correct answer.
  4. To mark the centre front

Explanation

Side slits at the hem of a kurta give freedom of movement around the hips and thighs, preventing the fabric from straining when sitting or walking. They are a functional feature rather than a structural marking.

Question 25Trade Theory and Fundamentals of the Vocational Trade (PDFM/RMPDFM)

A student must calculate the fabric required for a kurta with a 2.5 m length, 0.15 m extra for hem and seam allowances, and a 0.10 m allowance for shrinkage. What is the minimum length of fabric to buy?

  1. 2.50 m
  2. 2.90 m
  3. 2.65 m
  4. 2.75 m Correct answer.

Explanation

The required length is the garment length plus hem and seam allowance plus shrinkage allowance: 2.50 + 0.15 + 0.10 = 2.75 m. Each allowance must be added separately because they serve different purposes.

Question 26Trade Theory and Fundamentals of the Vocational Trade (PDFM/RMPDFM)

In the PDFM trade, which tool is used to transfer pattern markings from the paper pattern to the fabric without leaving permanent ink marks?

  1. Tailor's chalk or a tracing wheel with carbon paper Correct answer.
  2. Permanent marker pen
  3. Fabric glue stick
  4. Ball-point pen

Explanation

Pattern markings must be transferred with removable media so the marks disappear after stitching or washing. Tailor's chalk, tracing wheels with dressmaker's carbon, and tailor's tacks are the standard methods taught in the trade. Permanent inks would stain the finished garment and are never used on the face side.

Question 27Trade Theory and Fundamentals of the Vocational Trade (PDFM/RMPDFM)

A ladies' bodice block is being drafted for a client whose bust circumference is 88 cm. Using the standard PDFM drafting convention, what is the approximate bust measurement allocated to a half-front bodice draft?

  1. 22 cm
  2. 88 cm
  3. 44 cm Correct answer.
  4. 66 cm

Explanation

Bodice blocks are drafted on the half-body because the pattern is cut on folded fabric, so half of the bust circumference (88 ÷ 2 = 44 cm) is the working figure. Drafting on the full circumference would double the fabric requirement and produce an oversized garment. The 44 cm is then distributed between front and back with the appropriate dart intake.

Question 28Trade Theory and Fundamentals of the Vocational Trade (PDFM/RMPDFM)

Which of the following describes the correct sequence for preparing fabric before laying out a pattern in the PDFM workshop?

  1. Pin the pattern pieces at random angles to save fabric
  2. Mark all pattern pieces directly on the unpresssed fabric without grain alignment
  3. Straighten the grain and press out creases, then fold or spread the fabric according to the layout plan Correct answer.
  4. Cut the fabric to length first, then wash it to shrink it

Explanation

Fabric must be grain-straightened and pressed flat before layout so that pattern pieces align with the lengthwise grain and the garment hangs correctly. Cutting before shrinking or pressing risks a distorted, off-grain garment. Random pinning ignores grain lines and destroys fit and drape.

Question 29Trade Theory and Fundamentals of the Vocational Trade (PDFM/RMPDFM)

A tailor needs a strong, durable seam for the side seams of a cotton kurta that will be washed frequently. Which seam type is most appropriate?

  1. Flat-felled seam on a sheer georgette
  2. Overcast seam left raw without stitching
  3. French seam on a heavy canvas
  4. Plain seam with edges overlocked or double-stitched Correct answer.

Explanation

A plain seam that is neatened by overlocking or double stitching gives strength and prevents ravelling on medium-weight cotton. It is quick, wash-durable, and standard for kurta side seams. The other options either suit different fabrics or leave the edge unprotected.

Question 30Trade Theory and Fundamentals of the Vocational Trade (PDFM/RMPDFM)

In apparel production, what does the term 'grain line' marked on a pattern piece indicate?

  1. The direction of the lengthwise warp threads, along which the pattern must be placed Correct answer.
  2. The direction of the weft threads across the fabric width
  3. The position of the buttonholes on the placket
  4. The location of the seam allowance

Explanation

The grain line arrow shows the lengthwise (warp) direction of the fabric, and every pattern piece must be aligned parallel to it for correct drape and fit. Placing pieces off-grain causes twisting, poor hang, and seam distortion. Weft direction, buttonholes, and seam allowances are marked separately.

Question 31Trade Theory and Fundamentals of the Vocational Trade (PDFM/RMPDFM)

A student is drafting a sleeve block and needs the sleeve cap height to fit a bodice armhole. Which measurement relationship is correct?

  1. Sleeve cap height is always half the sleeve length
  2. Sleeve cap height is independent of the armhole shape
  3. Sleeve cap height is related to the armhole depth and the desired ease in the cap Correct answer.
  4. Sleeve cap height must equal the full armhole circumference

Explanation

Sleeve cap height is derived from the armhole depth plus the ease needed for the cap to sit smoothly over the shoulder. Too little ease produces a tight cap that pulls, while too much causes puckering. The cap must relate to the armhole curve, not to sleeve length or full circumference.

Question 32Trade Theory and Fundamentals of the Vocational Trade (PDFM/RMPDFM)

Which stitch class is produced by an overlock machine to neaten and join edges simultaneously?

  1. Class 500 overedge stitch Correct answer.
  2. Class 200 hand stitch
  3. Class 300 lockstitch
  4. Class 100 chain stitch

Explanation

Overlock machines produce Class 500 overedge stitches, which both join and neaten the edge in one operation. Class 300 is the lockstitch used on domestic and industrial flat machines. Class 100 and Class 200 refer to chain and hand stitches respectively and do not neaten edges in this way.

Question 33Trade Theory and Fundamentals of the Vocational Trade (PDFM/RMPDFM)

A candidate is asked to select the correct needle for stitching a medium-weight denim. Which needle specification is most suitable?

  1. A size 70/10 embroidery needle
  2. A twin stretch needle
  3. A size 90/14 or 100/16 sharp needle Correct answer.
  4. A size 60/8 ball-point needle

Explanation

Denim is a tightly woven, heavy fabric that needs a larger sharp needle to penetrate without deflection or breakage. Sizes 90/14 to 100/16 are standard for medium denim. Ball-point and fine embroidery needles are too delicate and would bend or skip stitches.

Question 34Trade Theory and Fundamentals of the Vocational Trade (PDFM/RMPDFM)

In pattern grading, what is the purpose of the grade rule?

  1. It defines the amount by which each point on the pattern moves between sizes Correct answer.
  2. It specifies the type of thread to be used
  3. It sets the stitch length used on the production line
  4. It determines the colour of the fabric to be used

Explanation

A grade rule specifies the horizontal and vertical increments by which each pattern point shifts when moving from one size to the next. Applying consistent rules preserves the design proportions across the size range. Stitch length, fabric colour, and thread type are production decisions unrelated to grading.

Question 35Trade Theory and Fundamentals of the Vocational Trade (PDFM/RMPDFM)

Which of the following best explains why a muslin (toile) is made before cutting the final fabric in PDFM practice?

  1. To determine the final selling price of the garment
  2. To decide the colour combination of the trims
  3. To calculate the thread consumption of the order
  4. To test the fit and pattern accuracy on a cheap fabric before committing the final material Correct answer.

Explanation

A muslin is a trial garment stitched in inexpensive fabric so that fit, dart placement, and seam lines can be corrected before the final fabric is cut. This avoids wasting costly material on a faulty pattern. Pricing, thread consumption, and trim colour are commercial or design decisions made separately.

Question 36Trade Theory and Fundamentals of the Vocational Trade (PDFM/RMPDFM)

A bodice pattern shows a shoulder seam that slopes sharply downward on the client. Which alteration corrects a garment that shows a diagonal fold from the neck to the armhole?

  1. Increase the bust dart intake
  2. Lower the shoulder seam at the armhole
  3. Raise the shoulder seam at the neck point to remove the excess Correct answer.
  4. Add width at the centre front

Explanation

A diagonal fold running from the neck toward the armhole indicates excess fabric at the shoulder slope, so the shoulder seam must be raised at the neck point. Lowering the armhole end or altering the centre front would not address the slope. Increasing the bust dart changes chest shaping, not shoulder fit.

Question 37Trade Theory and Fundamentals of the Vocational Trade (PDFM/RMPDFM)

Which of the following is the correct method of taking a back neck-to-waist measurement for a bodice block?

  1. From the nape at the centre back down to the waistline, keeping the tape vertical Correct answer.
  2. Around the neck at the base
  3. From the shoulder tip down to the waistline along the armhole
  4. From the front neck point down to the bust line

Explanation

The back neck-to-waist measurement runs from the prominent bone at the nape down the centre back to the waistline, with the tape held vertically. This locates the waistline correctly for the back bodice draft. Shoulder tip, front neck, and neck circumference are different measurements serving other purposes.

Question 38Trade Theory and Fundamentals of the Vocational Trade (PDFM/RMPDFM)

In garment construction, what is the primary purpose of a facing?

  1. To add decorative embroidery to the garment surface
  2. To provide the main structural support of the shoulder seam
  3. To join two pattern pieces permanently
  4. To finish and reinforce an edge such as a neckline or armhole Correct answer.

Explanation

A facing is a shaped piece cut to match the edge it finishes, giving a clean, reinforced finish to necklines, armholes, and front openings. It is usually interfaced for crispness and turned to the inside. Embroidery, shoulder support, and joining pieces are functions of other components.

Question 39Trade Theory and Fundamentals of the Vocational Trade (PDFM/RMPDFM)

A pattern for a ladies' top requires 1.8 m of 112 cm wide fabric per garment. For a batch of 25 garments, how much fabric must be ordered if a 5% wastage allowance is added?

  1. 42.75 m
  2. 47.25 m Correct answer.
  3. 49.50 m
  4. 45.00 m

Explanation

The base requirement is 1.8 × 25 = 45 m. Adding 5% wastage gives 45 × 1.05 = 47.25 m. Allowing for wastage is standard practice in production planning because cutting losses and fabric faults consume extra material.

Question 40Trade Theory and Fundamentals of the Vocational Trade (PDFM/RMPDFM)

A student notices that the seam on a lightweight polyester blouse puckers badly after stitching. Which combination of causes is most likely?

  1. Excessive thread tension, too large a stitch length, or a needle too heavy for the fabric Correct answer.
  2. Too little thread tension and a needle too fine for the fabric
  3. A stitch length set too short and a bobbin wound loosely
  4. Use of a ball-point needle and reduced presser foot pressure

Explanation

Puckered seams on fine synthetics usually arise from thread tension that is too tight, a stitch length that is too long for the fabric, or a needle too heavy for the fine weave. These factors draw the fabric into the stitch and cause rippling. Correcting tension, reducing needle size, and shortening the stitch usually solves the problem.

Question 41Trade Practical Skills and Workshop/Lab Procedures

In a print finishing workshop, which machine operation is used to fold a printed sheet precisely along a scored line before stitching?

  1. Guillotine trimmer
  2. Offset plate exposure unit
  3. Thermal laminator
  4. Creasing and folding machine Correct answer.

Explanation

A creasing and folding machine presses a crease into the stock and then folds it along that line, giving a clean edge without cracking the printed surface. Trimming, laminating and plate exposure are separate operations that do not produce a fold.

Question 42Trade Practical Skills and Workshop/Lab Procedures

A workshop trainee must measure the thickness of a printed card with an accuracy of 0.01 mm. Which instrument is most appropriate?

  1. Vernier caliper
  2. Micrometer screw gauge Correct answer.
  3. Measuring tape
  4. Steel rule

Explanation

A micrometer screw gauge reads to 0.01 mm and is designed for small thickness measurements on sheet material. A vernier caliper usually resolves to 0.02 mm, while a steel rule and tape are far coarser.

Question 43Trade Practical Skills and Workshop/Lab Procedures

Before operating any powered machine in the print workshop, the first mandatory action by a student is to:

  1. Adjust the delivery gripper timing
  2. Increase the machine running speed gradually
  3. Apply oil to the inking rollers
  4. Check that all guards are in place and the emergency stop works Correct answer.

Explanation

Safety checks precede every other adjustment: guards must be fitted and the emergency stop verified before power is applied. Timing, lubrication and speed setting are operational tasks performed only after the machine is confirmed safe.

Question 44Trade Practical Skills and Workshop/Lab Procedures

In letterpress composition, a pica is subdivided into 12 points. A line of type measuring 3 picas therefore equals how many points?

  1. 24 points
  2. 36 points Correct answer.
  3. 18 points
  4. 48 points

Explanation

Because one pica contains 12 points, three picas contain 3 × 12 = 36 points. This fixed relationship is the basis for calculating type sizes and line measures in traditional composition.

Question 45Trade Practical Skills and Workshop/Lab Procedures

Which paper property is measured by a Bendtsen or Sheffield tester in the print laboratory?

  1. Moisture content
  2. Surface roughness (smoothness) Correct answer.
  3. Bursting strength
  4. Opacity

Explanation

Bendtsen and Sheffield instruments measure air leakage across the sheet surface, which indicates roughness or smoothness. Bursting strength, opacity and moisture are assessed with entirely different testers.

Question 46Trade Practical Skills and Workshop/Lab Procedures

A screen printing frame is being prepared for a textile job. Which mesh count selection is most suitable for printing a thick, opaque white plastisol design?

  1. A monofilament 230 mesh
  2. A medium 110 mesh
  3. A coarse 43–62 mesh Correct answer.
  4. A very fine 305 mesh

Explanation

Coarse mesh with a low thread count allows a thick deposit of ink, which suits opaque plastisol whites. Fine meshes deposit thin films and are used for detail work rather than heavy coverage.

Question 47Trade Practical Skills and Workshop/Lab Procedures

Which unit is conventionally used to express the substance (grammage) of printing paper?

  1. micron
  2. ply
  3. N/m
  4. gsm (g/m²) Correct answer.

Explanation

Grammage is the mass in grams of one square metre of paper, written as gsm or g/m². Micron expresses thickness, N/m expresses tensile force per width, and ply describes board layers.

Question 48Trade Practical Skills and Workshop/Lab Procedures

A trainee is asked to store lithographic printing plates before use. The correct practice is to:

  1. Stack them face to face without interleaving
  2. Keep them in a damp dark room
  3. Store them flat in a cool, dry place with interleaving sheets Correct answer.
  4. Roll them tightly for space saving

Explanation

Plates must be protected from moisture, heat and surface abrasion, so flat storage in a cool dry place with interleaving is standard. Damp storage causes oxidation and coating damage, while rolling or unprotected stacking damages the image layer.

Question 49Trade Practical Skills and Workshop/Lab Procedures

During a screen printing run, the squeegee angle is set at about 75 degrees to the screen. Compared with a 45-degree angle, this steeper setting will:

  1. Increase the mesh tension
  2. Deposit a thicker ink film
  3. Reduce the off-contact distance
  4. Deposit a thinner ink film Correct answer.

Explanation

A steeper squeegee angle drives less ink through the mesh, producing a thinner deposit. Lower angles shear the ink more and push a heavier film through the openings, so the relationship is inverse.

Question 50Trade Practical Skills and Workshop/Lab Procedures

A sheet-fed offset press shows ink piling on the blanket in one zone. Which workshop action is the most direct first step to correct it?

  1. Replace the delivery grippers
  2. Increase the fountain solution concentration in that zone Correct answer.
  3. Reduce the impression pressure across the whole press
  4. Increase the dryer temperature

Explanation

Ink piling on the blanket is commonly caused by insufficient dampening or poor ink-water balance, so adjusting the fountain solution in the affected zone is the direct correction. Uneven blanket piling is a localised dampening or ink problem, not a gripper or dryer fault.