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Medium of Fashion: Textiles

In this course, you learn about the practical application of the materials, elements, and techniques used in the fabrication of modern apparel within the fashion industry. Aimed at students of fashion design or design professionals interested in understanding the “how” as well as the “why” of textiles, this course covers the components involved in the design and manufacture of apparel and accessories. Topics covered include the study of natural and man-made fibers, yarns, and textile structures such as knits and woven fabrics, garment structure, decorative trims, and surface design and applications (printing, dyeing, and embellishment). Multiple field trips will be taken throughout the course. Prerequisites: none.

Instructor
Owyn Ruck
Owyn Ruck
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Mar 04 - May 12
Online
Spring 2019
CRN 5241
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What you will learn
  • How to identify a fabric: what it’s made of, primary characteristics, how it functions and how these facts determine its end use.
  • How to “swatch” a fabric, analyze and identify its makeup.
  • A strong working vocabulary of textile terminology.
  • A basic understanding of the laws and labeling requirements regulating the textile industry.
  • The ‘Time Line’ of the role of textiles play in the development and manufacturing of a product, in both fashion and home furnishings.
  • Fiber characteristics: natural, manufactured, manmade,
  • Fiber origins: fiber to yarn, plastic to polyester, silkworm to silk, cotton bud to woven cotton,
  • Wovens and their basic weaves: plain, twill, satin, and specialty weaves and how they are manufactured or hand-made.
  • Knitted fabrics: how they are made, machine and hand-knitted
  • Specialty fabrics: novelties, non-wovens, unique fabrications, innovations using technology
  • How and when textiles are dyed: the printing and finishing of fabrics.
  • What is the textile industry: textiles and the environment, textile laws, regulations, and trade agreements – and how these affect the creation, production and use of textiles in the fashion industry.
  • Examination of textile performance, end-use, and cost.
  • How to make informed decisions about fabrics based on production, aesthetics, suitability, durability, sustainability, and requirements for care.
  • The latest trends and newest technologies being used in textile production.
  • Sustainability and the textile industry: future and industry responsibilities.
  • How to create a fabric diary for future reference.
Benefits
  • Ability to identify the major types of fibers, yarns, and fabrics used in the manufacture of apparel and products for the home furnishings industry.
  • Knowledge of the interrelationship between fabrics and their end-uses
  • How to choose fabrics based upon a variety of factors, from performance to cost and requirements for care.
  • Comprehensive understanding of textile terminology and the basic laws and agreements and requirements governing the textile and fashion industries.
  • Ability to source the latest trends and developments within textile manufacturing.
  • Develop a keen sense for fabric sourcing and a resourcing diary.
  • At the completion of the course, identifying how what you have learned can apply to your career interests and objectives.
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