Fashion Design Garment Construction

Question 1

What is the standard seam allowance used in most commercial sewing patterns in the United States?

Accepted Answer

5/8 inch

Answer

The industry standard seam allowance in US commercial patterns is 5/8 inch (approximately 1.5 cm), which provides enough fabric for adjustments and finishing.

Question 2

What is 'ease' in garment construction?

Accepted Answer

Extra fabric added beyond body measurements to allow movement and comfort

Answer

Ease is the difference between actual body measurements and the garment's finished measurements, providing room for movement and comfort without restricting the wearer.

Question 3

What is the purpose of 'stay-stitching' in garment construction?

Accepted Answer

To prevent curved or bias-cut edges from stretching before assembly

Answer

Stay-stitching is a single line of stitching sewn within the seam allowance of curved or bias edges to stabilize them and prevent distortion during handling.

Question 4

What is a 'dart' in garment construction?

Accepted Answer

A folded, stitched tuck that removes excess fabric to shape garments to the body

Answer

A dart is a triangular or diamond-shaped fold of fabric stitched to a point, used to shape flat fabric to fit the three-dimensional curves of the body.

Question 5

Which stitching technique creates a smooth, invisible hem finish on the inside of a garment?

Accepted Answer

Blind hem stitch

Answer

The blind hem stitch is nearly invisible on the right side of fabric, catching only one or two threads of the outer fabric while securing the hem allowance on the inside.

Fashion Design Practice Test

Fashion Design Practice Test

Fashion Design Garment Construction