Overview
This guide provides a structured framework for teaching Clothing, Textiles and Fashion at secondary and postsecondary levels. It balances theoretical knowledge with handson practice, preparing students for further study or entrylevel positions in the apparel industry, design studios, or textile manufacturing.
The curriculum is divided into three interconnected strands:
- Clothing Construction pattern making, sewing, garment finishing.
- Textile Science fibre identification, fabric structures, performance testing.
- Fashion Studies history, trend analysis, sustainability, business fundamentals.
Learning Objectives
By the end of the course, learners will be able to:
- Identify major natural and synthetic fibres and explain their properties.
- Analyze how fabric construction influences functionality and aesthetics.
- Develop technical flat sketches and translate them into patterns.
- Sew garments using a range of stitches, seam types and finishes.
- Critically evaluate fashion trends and the sociocultural forces that shape them.
- Apply principles of sustainable design and responsible sourcing.
- Present a professional portfolio that demonstrates design thinking and technical skill.
Core Modules
1. Fibre & Fabric Fundamentals (4 weeks)
Key topics: fibre anatomy, yarn formation, weave & knit structures, textile testing (strength, drape, breathability).
| Week | Focus | Activities |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Natural fibres | Microscope labs, fibre burn test |
| 2 | Synthetic fibres | Polymer identification, recycling demo |
| 3 | Fabric construction | Weave/knit samples, handweaving |
| 4 | Performance testing | Lab tests, data analysis report |
2. Design Development & Sketching (3 weeks)
Students learn visual communication, moodboard creation and computeraided design (CAD) basics.
- Handdrawn flats & croquis.
- Color theory and fabric sourcing.
- Introduction to Adobe Illustrator or free alternatives.
3. Pattern Making & Garment Construction (6 weeks)
From basic blocks to custom patterns, followed by stepbystep sewing.
- Drafting bodice and skirt blocks.
- Grading for size ranges.
- Seam finishes, closures, and embellishments.
- Final garment assembly and fitting.
4. Fashion History & Trend Forecasting (2 weeks)
Chronological overview of major movements, key designers, and the impact of technology and culture on style.
5. Sustainable & Ethical Practices (2 weeks)
Lifecycle assessment, circular design, ethical sourcing, and the role of legislation.
6. Business & Marketing Essentials (2 weeks)
Brand positioning, price setting, retail channels, and digital marketing basics.
7. Portfolio Development & Presentation (1 week)
Compilation of sketches, technical specifications, fabric swatches, and a final runway or virtual showcase.
Assessment Strategy
Assessment is continuous and diversified to reflect realworld expectations.
- Practical Projects (45%) garment construction, textile testing reports, CAD assignments.
- Written Assignments (20%) research essay on a fashion movement, sustainability case study.
- Presentations (15%) trend board and design concept pitch.
- Portfolio (20%) comprehensive, professionally formatted collection of work.
All assessments include a rubric covering creativity, technical accuracy, research depth, and communication.
Suggested Resources
Textbooks
- Fabric for Fashion Clive Hallett & Amanda Johnston
- Patternmaking for Fashion Design Helen JosephArmstrong
- Fashion: The Definitive History of Costume and Style Susan Brown
Online Platforms
- Coursera Sustainable Fashion series
- Skillshare garment construction workshops
- Fashion History Timeline (fashionhistory.edu)
Equipment Checklist
- Industrial and domestic sewing machines
- Serger / overlock machine
- Cutting tables, rotary cutters, and measuring tools
- Fabric swatch library (natural and synthetic)
- Microscope or magnifier for fibre analysis
- Computer lab with CAD software
