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BTXF103
Introduction to Textiles and Fashion

ECTS Value: 5 ECTS

 

Overall Objectives and Outcomes

  • This unit is aimed to give learners a foundation on the several types of textiles fibres, highlighting the various sources of fibres being natural or manufactured sources. Learners will follow detailed theoretical knowledge about the impact of textiles production on the environment. Moreover, learners will learn about the properties and characteristics of textiles fibres. Learners will be given the opportunity to research on textiles fabrics to develop autonomous informed judgements when selecting textiles materials according their potential and limitations. The unit will focus on the following topics:
            • The Fashion Design Industry 
            • Diverse types of textiles fibres. 
            • The impact of fibres and fabrics on the Environment. 
            • Several types of fabric structures and weaves. 
            • The properties and characteristics of textiles. 

 By the end of this programme, participants should be able to:

Competences

a. Engage with literature to develop a comprehensive understanding of the different roles and careers in the fashion industry;
b. Evaluate the properties and characteristics between natural and manufactured fibres;
c. Develop a comprehensive understanding of the modern technological innovations in the development of new materials;
d. Critically review the impact of textile production on the environment;
e. Define specifications when selecting fabrics for fashion projects, according to their specific characteristics and properties.  

 

Knowledge 

a. Distinguish the difference between Haute Couture, Pret-a-porter, High street Fashion and Mass Production;
b. Describe various natural and synthetic yarns to analyse textures;
c. Outline the environmental impacts of textiles production;
d. Identify different fabric structures and relate the properties of each structure;
e. Classify specific textiles according to their properties for various fashion projects. 

 

Skills

a. Evaluate the fashion and the creative economy including its direct and indirect impact on economic and industrial sectors;
b. Communicate the process of textiles production from fibre to fabric;
c. Recognise the warp, weft and bias of a woven fabric. Interpret various weaves using fibres, fabric or paper on other non-traditional materials to show creative application;
d. Responsibly distinguishes the properties of various fabric structures according to their physical properties;
e. Accomplish projects using the appropriate textiles fabrics;
f. Critically review who the protagonists are and the various promotions in the fashion industry;
g. Present informed discussion about the impact on the environment and employment;
h. Analyse natural or man-made fabrics according to suitability for specific projects;
i. Evaluate various fabric structures for specific functions;
j. Assess fashion projects according to specific criteria.

 

Assessment Methods

This programme adopts continuous and summative methods of assessment including assignments, online tasks, reflective journals, projects and video presentations. For further details, kindly refer to the Teaching, Learning and Assessment Policy and Procedures.

Suggested Readings

Core Reading List
1. Baugh, G. (2011). The Fashion Designer’s Textile Directory: A Guide to Fabrics’ Properties, Characteristics, and Garment-Design Potential. (1st Ed.). US: Barron’s Educational Series.
2. Hallett, C. and Johnston, A. (2014). Fabric for Fashion: The Complete Guide: Natural and Manmade Fibers. US: Laurence King.
3. Ridgewell, J. (1998). A-Z of Textiles Technology. Ridgwell Press.
4. Colchester, C. (1996). The New Textiles: Trends and Tradition. UK: Thames and Hudson. 

Supplementary Reading List 
1. Littlejohn, J. and Beaney J. (1999). Bonding and Beyond. US: Double Trouble Enterprises.  

Useful Online Resources:
1. http://the.ethicalfashionforum.com  

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