Question 1: Describe how pleating fabric can change its shape and appearance. Mention at least two different types of pleats.

Answer: Pleating fabric involves folding and pinning the fabric to create structured folds that can add texture and volume. Box pleats fold the fabric into two folds that face away from each other, creating a sharp, geometric look. Knife pleats are all folded in one direction, creating a uniform, sharp fold across the fabric.

Question 2: Explain the purpose of gathering fabric and how it affects the shape of a garment.

Answer: Gathering involves sewing a row of stitches along the fabric and pulling the thread to create small, controlled folds. This technique adds fullness and flexibility, allowing the fabric to be shaped around curves or to create a ruffled effect.

Question 3: List two techniques used to add three-dimensional shape to fabric and briefly describe each.

Answer: Darting involves sewing a triangular fold into fabric to shape it around curves such as the bust or waist. Padding or stuffing involves inserting extra material inside fabric or a seam to create volume or a specific shape, like in plush toys or padded garments.

Question 4: Sketch a simple design of a fabric with a series of evenly spaced pleats. Label the pleats and explain how they can be pressed to maintain their shape.

Answer: A correct sketch should show parallel folds running across the fabric, with labels indicating 'pleats'. The pleats can be pressed using an iron with steam, and pinned or stitched in place to hold their sharp and even appearance.

Question 5: Describe how fabric can be shaped by manipulating its grain or stretch properties.

Answer: Fabric can be shaped by cutting along the grain or bias to alter its drape and fit. Stretch fabrics can be pulled or stretched while sewing to create fitted shapes, and their elasticity helps in shaping around curves.

Question 6: Explain the difference between flattening and folding fabric as shaping techniques.

Answer: Flattening involves pressing fabric to remove wrinkles and create a smooth surface, which can aid in precise shaping. Folding involves creating permanent or temporary folds that add volume or texture, shaping the fabric into specific forms.

Question 7: Identify two methods to permanently set fabric in a specific shape or form.

Answer: Heat setting with an iron or steamer can permanently shape fabrics like synthetics. Additionally, sewing or stitching in specific patterns can hold fabric in a desired shape permanently.

Question 8: Sketch a design that uses darts to shape a piece of fabric for a fitted neckline. Label the darts and describe their purpose.

Answer: A correct sketch should show darts sewn from the bust area towards the shoulder or side seam, with labels indicating 'darts'. Darts help contour the fabric to fit the shape of the body, especially around curves.

Question 9: Describe how fabric can be manipulated to create a gathered or ruched effect for decorative purposes.

Answer: Gathering or ruching involves sewing a row of stitches and pulling the thread to bunch the fabric together, creating a textured, ruffled appearance that adds decorative volume.