Fashion Design Pattern Making and Draping 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the primary purpose of a sloper (also called a block) in pattern making?
- To add decorative embellishments to garments
- To serve as a basic fitted template from which other patterns are derived (Correct answer)
- To measure and mark seam allowances
- To determine fabric yardage requirements
Correct answer: To serve as a basic fitted template from which other patterns are derived
A sloper is a basic pattern fitted exactly to body measurements, used as the foundation from which designers create and manipulate new patterns.
Question 2: Which drafting tool is specifically designed to help draw smooth curved seam lines such as necklines and armholes?
- Straight ruler
- T-square
- French curve (Correct answer)
- Notcher
Correct answer: French curve
A French curve is a drafting tool with various curved edges used to draw smooth, accurate curved lines on patterns.
Question 3: What does 'ease' refer to in garment pattern making?
- The process of simplifying a complex pattern
- The extra fabric allowance beyond body measurements for comfort and movement (Correct answer)
- A technique for removing fullness from a seam
- The method of transferring markings from pattern to fabric
Correct answer: The extra fabric allowance beyond body measurements for comfort and movement
Ease is the additional fabric added beyond exact body measurements so the wearer has freedom of movement and the garment fits comfortably.
Question 4: In flat pattern making, what are 'notches' used for?
- To add decorative detail along a seam
- To match corresponding pattern pieces accurately during construction (Correct answer)
- To indicate the center front line of a garment
- To show where darts should be sewn
Correct answer: To match corresponding pattern pieces accurately during construction
Notches are small triangular or square marks cut into seam allowances to help align corresponding pattern pieces correctly when sewing.
Question 5: What is the standard seam allowance used in most commercial sewing patterns in the United States?
- 1/4 inch
- 3/8 inch
- 5/8 inch (Correct answer)
- 1 inch
Correct answer: 5/8 inch
The US commercial standard seam allowance is 5/8 inch, providing enough fabric to sew a secure seam while still allowing fitting adjustments.
Question 6: Which of the following best describes the 'grain' of a woven fabric?
- The texture and surface finish of the fabric
- The direction of the warp or weft threads in woven fabric (Correct answer)
- The weight and density of the fabric
- The type of fiber used in the fabric
Correct answer: The direction of the warp or weft threads in woven fabric
Grain refers to the direction of threads in woven fabric; the lengthwise grain (warp) runs parallel to the selvage and the crosswise grain (weft) runs perpendicular.
Question 7: What is the purpose of adding a dart to a bodice pattern?
- To add extra length to the torso area
- To add decorative topstitching details
- To shape flat fabric to fit the three-dimensional curves of the body (Correct answer)
- To reinforce stress points in the garment
Correct answer: To shape flat fabric to fit the three-dimensional curves of the body
Darts are stitched folds that remove excess fabric and shape flat cloth to contour to the body's three-dimensional curves, such as the bust or waist.
Fashion Design Pattern Making and Draping 1
What is the primary purpose of a sloper (also called a block) in pattern making?