Textile and Material Inspiration

Overview

The goal of this unit is to develop an understanding of materials and textiles and how they are applied in a fashion context. Students will explore textiles in a cultural and historical context to understand manufacturing processes, fabric performance and sustainability. Students will conduct fabric testing and explore experimental textile techniques. They will learn how to choose appropriate materials and apply visualise design inspiration to fashion concepts and prototypes.

Unit learning outcomes

Students who successfully complete this unit will be able to:

1. Understand the fundamentals of various textile materials, their properties, and the implications of these properties on design, functionality and sustainability.
2. Apply an understanding of cultural and historical context to the selection of textiles including First Nations knowledges
3. Develop appropriate fabric/textile choices to suit a design brief
4. Create design visualisation and prototyping that effectively communicate design concepts

Teaching methods

All applicable locations

Assessment

Content

• Textile types and fabric testing: woven, knits, fibre webs, natural vs. synthetic fibres 
• Fabric selection: design, functionality and sustainability  
• Fabric application: day, evening wear, tailored, knits 
• Textile applications: colour, printing and surface embellishments 
• Textile manufacturing processes and pattern design for production 
• Cultural context including First Nations knowledge and influences on textile design 
• Graduate Attribute: Communication 2 - Communicating using different media