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The use of finishes
Official AQA section 3.1.4.
7
Objectives
10
Flashcards
10
Questions
90 min
Study time
AqaA LevelDesign And Technology Fashion And TextilesTechnical principles
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7 objective pages available
The use of finishes7 objectives
- Fabric finishes The effects of finishes and the reasons they are needed in relation to: • the fibre/fabric properties • end use of the product.
- Mechanical finishes A range of mechanical finishes, including: • brushing/raising • calendaring • embossing • heat setting using thermoplastic fibres to give permanent pleats or crinkles and make fabric non-crease and non-shrink • stone and sand washing.
- Understand how the physical characteristics of fabrics can be modified by using mechanical finishes, eg trapped air acts as an insulator, air supports combustion, smooth fabric reflect light better than those with texture. 22 Visit aqa.org.uk/7562 for the most up-to-date specification, resources, support and administration Chemical finishes A range of chemical finishes, including: • mercerisation • flame retardancy, eg Proban ® and Pytovatex® used on cotton fabrics • water resistance • non-iron/crease resistance, eg Teflon • shrink resistance and anti felting • moth proofing • anti-pilling • hygienic (sanitised).
- Detailed knowledge of the chemicals involved and methods of application is not expected.
- Understand how the physical characteristics of fabrics can be modified by applying chemical finishes.
- Laminating as a finishing process That a laminated fabric is a membrane system made up of two or more layers, and the principles behind how laminated fabrics work.
- Students should be able to describe a range of laminated fabrics, including: • Gore-Tex ® • Sympatex ® • Bonded fabrics, eg fake leather backed by a woven fabric to give stability. Visit aqa.org.uk/7562 for the most up-to-date specification, resources, support and administration 23.
Key terms
Water repellent finishFlame retardant finishMechanical finishesThermoplastic fibresMercerisationFlame RetardancyHydrophilic finishBreathable coatingChemical finishDurable pressLaminated FabricMembrane Layer
Exam tips
- Use specific examples: When discussing finishes, always relate them to specific fabrics and their intended uses.
- Use specific terminology: When discussing finishes, use precise terms like 'calendaring' or 'embossing' to demonstrate your knowledge.
Common mistakes
- Confusing finishes with fabric types: Remember that finishes modify the properties of fabrics, while the fabric type determines the base characteristics.
- Confusing mechanical finishes with chemical finishes: Focus on the physical processes involved in mechanical finishes, such as brushing and calendaring, which do not involve chemical alterations.
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