Question 1: Describe how fabric can be shaped using darts in garment construction. Include what darts are and their purpose.

Answer: Darts are sewn folds in fabric that are stitched to contour the fabric to fit the body, creating a three-dimensional shape. They are usually sewn along curved lines to shape areas like the bust, waist, or hips.

Question 2: Explain the process of gathering fabric and how it helps in shaping a textile piece. Mention at least two methods of gathering.

Answer: Gathering involves bunching fabric together to create a ruffled or puckered effect, which adds volume or shape. It can be done by sewing a long, loose stitch along the fabric edge and pulling the thread to gather, or by using a gathering foot on a sewing machine.

Question 3: List three different techniques used to shape fabric in textiles. Briefly describe each one.

Answer: 1. Darts: sewn folds that contour fabric to fit the body. 2. Pleats: folded fabric sections sewn or pressed to add volume or shape. 3. Gathers: fabric bunched together to create ruffles or fullness.

Question 4: Sketch a simple design for a fabric that has been shaped using tucks. Label the tucks and explain their purpose.

Answer: A correct sketch would show parallel lines of fabric folded and sewn to create tucks, which are small folds pressed flat or left to add texture and shape to the fabric, such as in decorative or fitted areas.

Question 5: Draw a diagram to demonstrate how fabric can be shaped by pleating. Include at least two pleats in your sketch.

Answer: A diagram should show fabric folded into pleats, which are then stitched or pressed flat. The pleats should be evenly spaced and folded in the same direction, creating a structured, shaped surface.

Question 6: Explain the difference between shaping fabric using darts and using princess seams. Include when you might use each technique.

Answer: Darts are sewn folds typically used to shape areas like the bust or waist and are usually placed on curved or angled lines. Princess seams are longer, curved seams that run from the shoulder or armhole down to the hem, providing a smooth, contoured fit. Darts are simpler and used for localized shaping, while princess seams are used for full-length shaping in garments.

Question 7: Identify and describe a technique that involves manipulating fabric by folding and pressing to create a three-dimensional shape.

Answer: Folding and pressing fabric into tucks or darts creates a three-dimensional shape by removing excess fabric and contouring the fabric to fit the shape of the body or design.

Question 8: Sketch a design for a fabric that has been shaped with bias binding to create a curved edge. Label the parts involved.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a curved edge of fabric with bias binding sewn along the edge, covering raw edges and creating a smooth, shaped finish. Labels should include the bias binding, seam line, and raw edge.

Question 9: Describe how fabric can be manipulated using shirring to add shape and elasticity. Mention the technique involved.

Answer: Shirring involves sewing multiple parallel rows of elasticated stitches across the fabric. When the threads are pulled tight, the fabric gathers and creates a stretchy, textured surface that adds shape and elasticity.

Question 10: Draw a pattern of fabric that has been shaped with a princess seam. Indicate the seam lines and explain how they affect the fit.

Answer: A pattern should show curved seam lines running from the shoulder or armhole down to the waist or hip, shaping the fabric to fit the contours of the body. The princess seams create a smooth, fitted silhouette.