Textiles, Apparel and Fashion
Textiles, Apparel and Fashion
The exam tests fibre classification, fibre and fabric properties, fabric construction, pattern work and garment construction, care and laundering, and the fashion cycle. Justify fabric choices by linking properties to end use.
Core rules
- Natural fibres: cotton (plant - absorbent, cool, creases, stronger when wet), linen (plant - strong, stiff), wool (animal - warm, elastic, felts with heat and friction), silk (animal - lustrous, strong, damaged by strong sunlight and perspiration).
- Regenerated fibres: viscose/rayon from wood pulp. Synthetics: polyester, nylon, acrylic - strong, quick-drying, thermoplastic (melt with heat), low absorbency.
- Construction: weaving (plain, twill, satin), knitting (more stretch), bonding, felting. Yarn twist and count affect strength and texture.
- Pattern work: grainline parallel to the selvedge; place pieces on the fold for symmetrical parts; use bias for drape and stretch.
- Care labels use symbols for washing, bleaching, ironing, dry cleaning and tumble drying.
Worked example
Choose a fabric for a school uniform worn in a hot, rainy district. Reasoning: cotton absorbs perspiration, allows evaporation, is cool, withstands frequent washing and strong sun, and is cheap locally. Pure polyester is durable and quick-drying but traps heat and odour. A polyester-cotton blend gives durability and easy care at some cost in comfort. A full-mark answer names a fibre, justifies it with two properties and states one limitation.
Traps
- Placing polyester among natural fibres.
- Ignoring the grainline when cutting out.
- Claiming wool washes safely in hot water - it shrinks and felts.