Question 1: Define the term 'sustainable design' within the context of textiles. Provide two key principles involved.

Answer: Sustainable design in textiles refers to creating products that minimize environmental impact throughout their lifecycle. Key principles include using eco-friendly materials and reducing waste during production.

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

Answer: Cotton (especially organic cotton) because it is biodegradable and requires less energy to produce; hemp because it grows quickly with minimal pesticides; linen (flax) because it is biodegradable and requires less water than some other fibres.

Question 3: Describe two techniques a textile designer could use to reduce waste during the fabric cutting process.

Answer: Using pattern nesting to arrange pattern pieces efficiently on fabric and designing with minimal fabric width to maximize material usage.

Question 4: Sketch a simple design for a reusable shopping bag that emphasizes sustainability. Label the materials you would use.

Answer: A sketch of a bag with handles, made from recycled or organic cotton or jute. Labels should indicate eco-friendly materials such as recycled polyester or biodegradable fabrics.

Question 5: Explain the concept of 'upcycling' in textiles and give one example of how it can be applied in fashion design.

Answer: Upcycling involves transforming waste materials into new, higher-quality products. For example, turning old t-shirts into a patchwork bag or quilt.

Question 6: Identify two environmentally harmful practices commonly used in textile production and suggest sustainable alternatives.

Answer: Using toxic dyes and large amounts of water; alternatives include natural dyes derived from plants and dyeing techniques that require less water, such as digital printing.

Question 7: Draw a flowchart showing the lifecycle of an eco-friendly textile product, from raw material to disposal. Use large, clear boxes for each stage and arrows to connect them.

Answer: Flowchart should include stages such as: Raw Material (e.g., organic cotton) -> Manufacturing (using eco-friendly dyes) -> Product Use -> Reuse/Recycle -> Disposal (biodegradable or compostable materials).

Question 8: Describe how choosing locally sourced materials can benefit sustainable textile design.

Answer: Locally sourced materials reduce transportation emissions, support local economies, and often have a smaller carbon footprint due to less energy used in transport.

Question 9: Sketch a label for a sustainable textile product that highlights its eco-friendly features. Include symbols or icons that communicate sustainability.

Answer: A label showing icons such as a leaf (eco-friendly), a recycling symbol, and a water droplet (water conservation). The sketch should include space for text describing sustainable features.

Question 10: Discuss the importance of consumer awareness in promoting sustainable textiles and how designers can influence responsible consumption.

Answer: Consumer awareness encourages the purchase of eco-friendly products, reducing demand for fast fashion and waste. Designers can influence responsible consumption by creating durable, timeless designs and promoting eco-labels.