Design for Fabric and Apparel

Design is not mere decoration. It is the planning and creation of an article for a specific purpose. In a broad sense, it is harmony in form, where the aesthetic aspect is integrated with the utility of the object. A good design is therefore not only pleasing to look at, but also functional and suitable for its use.

The texture of a fabric during manufacture is affected by these factors:

- Fibre content — the fibre type, whether natural or man-made, its length, fineness and surface characteristics.
- Yarn processing and yarn type — the method of processing, the twist inserted, the fineness of yarn and whether the yarn is simple, complex, novelty or textured.
- Fabric construction technique — the way the fabric is made, such as weaving, knitting, felting, braiding or lace-making, and the compactness of the weave or knit.
- Fabric finishes — treatments such as stiffening, ironing, calendaring, tentering, napping and fulling.
- Surface ornamentation — effects such as tufting, flock printing, embroidery and stitched effects.

These all change how the fabric looks, feels and behaves.

Colour can be applied at different stages of fabric manufacture, and each stage gives a different design effect:

- Fibre stage: Dyeing is rarely done here because it is expensive, but it may be used for some manufactured fibres or when multicoloured fibres are needed.
- Yarn stage: Dyeing yarn before weaving or knitting produces designs such as stripes, checks, plaids, chambrays, brocades, jacquards and ikat patterns.
- Fabric stage: This is the most common stage. It can produce plain coloured fabrics as well as designs through tie-and-dye and batik.
- After fabric formation: Colour may also be added by painting, printing, embroidery, patchwork or appliqué, which allows colour to appear in any shape or form.

Thus, the stage at which colour is applied decides the kind of pattern, surface effect and final appearance of the fabric.