Fabrics for Fashion Design: Essential Learning for Designers Part 3

This Course defines the different types of Fabrics and how to use them in developing a design, a group, or a collection. In this Course you learn fabric’s Characteristics and Properties and Categories such as Knits, Woven and Non-Woven; analyzing fibers: Natural and Man-Made Fibers; Plant-based and Animal-based Fibers; and different types of Weaves.

This Course will not only educate you, but also inspire you to approach Fashion Designing from a different perspective: using fabrics as a source of inspiration to create your designs and develop a group or collection.

I will show you (by draping fabrics on a dress form), how different fabrics “react/behave”.

This Course includes topics such as:

• Fiber Content
• Natura vs Man-made Fibers
• Woven vs Knits
• Different types of weaves: Oxford, Twill, Herringbone, Flannel, Popeline
• Grainlines: Warp and Weft
• Fabric Nap as in fabrics such as: Velvet, Corduroy, Velour, Velveteen
• “Life” and Process of fabric: Greige Goods. Finishing Mills. Converters. Vertical Mills. Distributors. Jobbers.
• Properties of Fabric: Weight, Drape, Construction, etc.
• Sustainable and Organic fabrics for an eco-friendly environment.
• How different Fabrics “behave”: Chiffon, Canvas/Taffeta, Organza, Felt, Jersey.
• Color and its importance in the context of fabric selection
• Using Fabric as a Source of Inspiration in Designing
• Choosing a Theme for your Collection: What is a Theme?
• How to distress Denim (jeans); as well as creating a Tie-dye look

Fabric is one of the most important element in fashion designing and learning the different types of fabric is essential in creating a successful collection.

You will learn how to distress fabric (denim) to create a unique and individual fabric surface design. And you’ll learn how to Tie-dye jeans.

You will see how designers use several layers of fabric to create a “new” fabric/look.

I will also include a great website regarding sustainable eco-friendly fabrics, where you can learn in-depth the environment and how the fashion industry effects its health;

I will include the name of a terrific Textbook that has swatches in it, so that you can actually “touch/feel” the fabric.

Choosing a Theme when starting a Fashion Collection is important in focusing on a design direction and establishing a cohesive group.

You will learn the importance of color when choosing fabric in designing a collection; the different “shades” of a color, known as “value”, is something that every fashion designer must be familiar with and train the eye to recognize all the subtle difference in color hues.

If you have taken any of my other Fashion Design Courses, such as Sketching, Draping, Pattern Making, etc. this Fabric Course will add a new and important element to your proficiency in Fashion Designing.

Most professional fashion designers start with fabric: selecting and choosing the right fabric(s) for their collection. In most cases, fabric is the first step in designing a fashion collection.

Fabric and Textile: …2 words that are interchangeable, meaning I will be using them in place of each other (they have similar meaning).

You will see that the textile industry works way ahead of everybody else…. they know what you will be wearing 2-3 years from now….….they have to create new colors… new fibers, etc…

You will learn about FIBER Content … (what is) Fiber: is a filament, a thread, a thread-like piece, … and we’ll start by dividing Fibers into 2 categories: Natural Fibers… and… Man-Made Fibers

Starting with Natural Fibers… they also can be broken down into 2 categories: Plant based … and… Animal based Fibers.

We also have minor categories called Specialty Yarns or Novelty yarns, where the yarn is irregular… on purpose…, or have a unique quality to it… where the yarns might have loops in the middle of the yarn… etc…

You will learn that when the fabric has been woven or knitted, …that initial piece, that initial roll of fabric is known as GREIGE Goods……. it is RAW fabric so to speak.

You will learn the different qualities of fabric, such as: weight, drape, durability, softness, construction, breathability, and the “hand” of the fabric.

As fashion designers, we are all conscious and aware of our planet and its environmental issues. We have a moral obligation to protect the environment and promote sustainable development for future generations. Sustainable fabrics… and eco friendly fashion… what does this all mean? Why is this so important?  Because the type of fabric used to make a garment, will affect how much damage it causes on the environment.  When it comes to pollution, the fashion industry is one of the largest contributors in the world.

You will be educated in using eco-friendly fabrics that will not hurt the environment, and empower you to make a positive difference in the lives we live and ultimately making a difference in the health of our planet.

This course will inspire you to be a better designer and at the same time empower to be more conscious of the designing process.  You will learn to use the right fabrics for the right use. You will see, for example, how the use of leather (in the manufacturing process) is different from using fabric.

You will learn how to let fabric be a source of inspiration, by using fabric and through the process of draping, you can create a new design.

Fabric selection is a cornerstone of fashion design, playing a pivotal role in determining the outcome of a garment. The choice of fabric can elevate a design, imbuing it with texture, drape, and character.

Each fabric possesses unique properties that contribute to the overall look and feel of the piece. For instance, silk exudes luxury with its smooth, lustrous finish, while denim evokes a casual, rugged vibe with its sturdy weave.

Understanding the properties of different fabrics is essential for designers as it allows them to manipulate the material to achieve their desired aesthetic and functionality.

Factors such as weight, stretch, opacity, and breathability must be carefully considered to ensure that the fabric complements the design intent and enhances the wearer’s experience.

Moreover, fabric selection can influence the garment’s performance and longevity, impacting aspects like durability, ease of care, and comfort. In essence, fabrics are the building blocks of fashion design, serving as both the canvas and the medium through which designers bring their creative visions to life.

Sustainable fashion encompasses various practices aimed at reducing the environmental and social impacts of the fashion industry. It involves adopting strategies that promote longevity, ethical production, and mindful consumption.

Sustainability in the fashion industry refers to the integration of environmentally and socially responsible practices throughout the entire supply chain, from sourcing raw materials to manufacturing, distribution, and end-of-life disposal.

Sustainable design in fashion involves creating garments using materials and processes that minimize harm to the environment and prioritize fair labor practices. Examples of sustainable fashion include clothing made from organic or recycled materials, vintage or second-hand garments, and pieces designed for durability and multifunctionality.

Sustainable fashion collections are curated assortments of clothing lines that adhere to eco-friendly principles and ethical standards.

To be more sustainable in fashion, individuals and businesses can adopt practices such as reducing waste, choosing sustainable fabrics, embracing slow fashion, supporting ethical brands, and engaging in circular economy initiatives.

Sustainable fabrics are materials that have minimal environmental impact and are produced using processes that conserve resources and reduce pollution, such as organic cotton, hemp, bamboo, recycled polyester, and Tencel.