Textile Decoration, Surface Design and Printing
Textile Decoration, Surface Design and Printing
This domain tests how colour and pattern are added to fabric and how decoration affects performance. Expect questions on dyeing, printing, embroidery, appliqué and repeat design.
Core rules
- Dye penetrates the fibre; pigment sits on the surface with a binder. Dye choice depends on fibre: reactive for cotton, acid for wool/nylon, disperse for polyester.
- Printing methods include screen, block, digital and transfer. Screen printing needs a separate screen per colour and registration; digital allows short runs and complex colour.
- Repeat patterns must tile: straight, half-drop, brick or mirror. Test the repeat at the edges.
- Decoration changes handle, drape, weight, care and flammability; evaluate suitability for end use.
- Always test on a sample: washing, rubbing and light exposure reveal failure before production.
Worked example
A small-run silk scarf with a detailed photographic print: digital printing suits short runs and fine detail; screen printing would need four or more screens and registration. The reasoned answer links method to quantity, detail and fabric, and tests colourfastness on the silk.
Traps
Confusing dye with pigment; ignoring repeat joins; decorating a stretch knit with a non-stretch appliqué without stabilising; not testing colourfastness.