Question 1: Describe how pleats are created in fabric and explain one effect they have on the shape of a garment.

Answer: Pleats are created by folding fabric in specific directions and stitching or pressing them to hold the folds. They add volume and shape to garments, allowing fabric to expand or contract in certain areas, such as skirts or bodices.

Question 2: Explain the process of gathering fabric and give an example of a clothing item where gathering is commonly used.

Answer: Gathering involves sewing two rows of stitches along the fabric edge and then pulling the threads to create ruffles or fullness. An example is a gathered skirt or sleeve.

Question 3: Define 'darts' in textiles and describe their purpose in shaping garments.

Answer: Darts are tapered stitches sewn into fabric to remove excess material and create a three-dimensional shape, particularly around the bust, waist, or hips, to achieve a better fit.

Question 4: Sketch a simple diagram showing how a dart is stitched in fabric. Label the dart, the stitching line, and the dart point.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a triangular dart with two lines converging at the dart point, with a stitching line along the edges of the triangle, illustrating how fabric is folded and sewn to shape the garment.

Question 5: Describe the technique of tucking in textiles and how it can be used to shape fabric.

Answer: Tucking involves folding fabric into small pleats or folds and sewing them in place. It is used to add texture or shape, for example, in decorative details or to create a fitted effect.

Question 6: What is fabric moulding, and how does it differ from sewing techniques like darts or pleats?

Answer: Fabric moulding involves manipulating fabric into three-dimensional forms, often using heat, glue, or stiffening agents to hold the shape. Unlike sewing techniques, it does not involve stitching but rather reshaping fabric physically.

Question 7: Sketch a design of a fabric manipulation technique that creates volume in a small area. Describe your sketch in words.

Answer: The sketch should show fabric gathered or pleated tightly in one section to create a puffed or three-dimensional effect. The description: 'A fabric piece with a central puff created by tightly gathering fabric and securing it with a stitched band.'

Question 8: Explain how fabric bonding or fusible interfacing can be used to add shape or stiffness to textiles.

Answer: Fusible interfacing is applied to fabric using heat, which melts an adhesive layer, bonding it to the fabric. This adds stiffness or firmness, helping the fabric hold a particular shape, such as in collars or bag bases.

Question 9: Identify two shaping techniques that involve folding or manipulating fabric without cutting or sewing, and briefly describe their purpose.

Answer: Pleating and tucking are techniques that involve folding fabric without cutting or sewing, primarily used to add texture, volume, or decorative effects, or to shape the fabric for better fit.

Question 10: Describe the process of draping fabric on a dress form and how this technique can help in shaping a garment.

Answer: Draping involves placing fabric on a dress form and pinning or tacking it to create the desired shape. This allows designers to see how the fabric will fall and to make adjustments for fit, volume, and design details before sewing.