Question 1: Define the term 'sustainability' in the context of textile design.

Answer: Sustainability in textile design refers to creating products in a way that minimizes environmental impact, conserves resources, and supports social responsibility throughout the product's lifecycle.

Question 2: Name three natural fibers that are considered environmentally sustainable and explain why.

Answer: Cotton (especially organic cotton) because it is biodegradable and requires less chemical processing; hemp because it grows quickly and requires minimal water and pesticides; linen (flax) because it is durable, requires less water, and is biodegradable.

Question 3: Describe two methods a textile designer can use to reduce waste during the production process.

Answer: Using pattern efficiency to minimise fabric scraps and designing products that can be made from smaller, off-cut pieces; implementing zero-waste pattern cutting techniques that utilize the entire fabric piece.

Question 4: Sketch a concept for a recycled fabric bag that uses sustainable materials. Label key features that make it environmentally friendly.

Answer: A large blank space for the student to draw a bag made from recycled fabric, with labels pointing to features such as 'recycled plastic bottles fabric', 'biodegradable straps', and 'minimal packaging'.

Question 5: Explain the benefits of using organic dyes over synthetic dyes in textile production.

Answer: Organic dyes are biodegradable, non-toxic, reduce water pollution, and are produced from natural sources, making them safer for the environment and workers.

Question 6: Identify two sustainable printing techniques that can be used on textiles and discuss their environmental advantages.

Answer: Block printing with natural dyes, which uses less water and chemicals; digital printing, which reduces waste and uses less ink and energy compared to traditional printing methods.

Question 7: Draw a simple diagram of a closed-loop recycling system for textiles. Include at least three stages and describe each briefly.

Answer: A large blank space for the student to draw a cycle diagram. The stages should include: 1) Collection of used textiles, 2) Recycling into new fibers or fabric, 3) Production of new textile products. Brief descriptions: 'Textile waste collected from consumers,' 'Fibers are processed and spun,' 'New products are manufactured and sold.'

Question 8: Discuss how the concept of durability contributes to sustainability in textile products.

Answer: Durable textiles last longer, reducing the need for frequent replacement, which decreases resource consumption, waste, and environmental impact over time.

Question 9: Sketch a label for a sustainable textile product, including symbols or wording that communicate its eco-friendly qualities.

Answer: A large blank space for the student to sketch a label featuring symbols such as a leaf, recycling icon, or water droplet, along with words like 'Organic', 'Recycled Material', or 'Eco-Friendly'.