Question 1: Explain the difference between 'draping' and 'pleating' as shaping techniques used in textiles.

Answer: Draping involves arranging fabric on a form or dress dummy to create a specific shape, often to visualize how fabric will fall or fit. Pleating involves folding fabric in a series of regular, controlled folds that are stitched or pressed into place to add texture and shape.

Question 2: Describe how a fabric can be shaped using a technique called 'gathering'.

Answer: Gathering involves sewing a running stitch along the edge of the fabric and then pulling the thread to bunch the fabric together, creating ruffles or a more fitted shape.

Question 3: Identify two shaping techniques that involve manipulating fabric while it is wet or damp.

Answer: Two techniques are 'wet shaping', where fabric is shaped and left to dry in a specific form, and 'steam shaping', where fabric is steamed to mould it into a desired shape.

Question 4: Describe what is meant by 'darting' in textiles and how it helps in shaping a garment.

Answer: Darting involves sewing triangular or curved folds into fabric to contour it to the body, especially around busts, waistlines, or hips, providing a better fit.

Question 5: Sketch a simple design for a fabric that has been shaped using pleats. Label the pleats clearly.

Answer: A large rectangular piece of fabric with evenly spaced, parallel folds (pleats) that are pressed or stitched into place, creating a structured, textured surface.

Question 6: List three tools or equipment that can be used to shape fabric and briefly describe their purpose.

Answer: 1. Iron - to press and set fabric folds or pleats. 2. Dress form - to drape and shape fabric on a three-dimensional surface. 3. Clamps or clips - to hold fabric in place during shaping or setting.

Question 7: Explain how the technique of 'tucking' can be used to add texture and shape to fabric.

Answer: Tucking involves sewing small folds or pleats into fabric, which can be stitched or pressed into place to create texture and controlled shaping.

Question 8: Describe a situation where fabric might be shaped using heat, and explain the process involved.

Answer: Fabric can be shaped using heat when creating thermoplastic fabrics like PVC or certain synthetic fibers. Heating softens the fabric, allowing it to be moulded into a desired shape, then cooled to set the form.

Question 9: Draw a diagram showing a fabric being gathered along one edge. Indicate the placement of the stitching and the resulting gathered fabric.

Answer: A sketch should show a straight edge of fabric with a dashed or dotted line representing the running stitch, and the fabric bunched along this line, creating ruffles or gathers.

Question 10: What are the advantages of using fabric manipulation techniques such as pleating or gathering in textile design?

Answer: These techniques add texture, visual interest, and dimensionality to textiles. They can also help shape garments more precisely and creatively.