Question 1: Describe the main difference between woven and knitted fabrics in terms of their construction process.

Answer: Woven fabrics are made by interlacing two sets of yarns at right angles, creating a stable structure. Knitted fabrics are made by looping yarns together in a series of interconnected loops, resulting in a stretchier fabric.

Question 2: Explain how the method of fabric construction can influence the fabric’s elasticity.

Answer: Knitted fabrics are generally more elastic because the loops can stretch and relax, whereas woven fabrics are less elastic due to the interlaced yarns being more rigid.

Question 3: List two advantages of using woven fabrics in clothing production.

Answer: Woven fabrics are typically more durable and less stretchy, making them suitable for structured garments. They also resist fraying and unraveling easily.

Question 4: Identify and describe a common type of weave pattern used in fabrics.

Answer: The plain weave is a common pattern where each weft yarn crosses over and under each warp yarn alternately, creating a simple, strong, and balanced fabric surface.

Question 5: Sketch a simple diagram of a knitted fabric showing the looping structure. Label the loops.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a series of interconnected loops arranged in rows, with each loop passing through the previous row's loops. Labels should identify 'loops' and indicate the way they connect.

Question 6: Draw a cross-section of a woven fabric and indicate the position of warp and weft yarns.

Answer: The cross-section should show two sets of parallel yarns: warp yarns running vertically and weft yarns running horizontally, interlaced at right angles.

Question 7: Describe how the choice of yarn material (such as cotton or polyester) can affect the appearance and feel of the fabric.

Answer: Cotton yarns produce fabrics that are soft, breathable, and natural in appearance. Polyester yarns tend to create smoother, shinier fabrics that are more durable and resistant to shrinking.

Question 8: Explain why some fabrics are finished with a special coating or treatment after construction. Provide one example and its purpose.

Answer: Fabrics are treated to improve their properties, such as water resistance or stain repellence. For example, a coating of polyurethane makes a fabric waterproof, ideal for outdoor clothing.

Question 9: Describe the process of felting and how it differs from woven or knitted fabric construction.

Answer: Felting involves matting and compressing wool fibres together through heat, moisture, and agitation, creating a dense fabric without weaving or knitting. Unlike woven or knitted fabrics, felting does not involve yarns or loops.