selecting materials or components

Question 1

what 8 factors affect the choice of fabrics and components?

Answer 1

-functionality
-aesthetics
-environment
-availability
-cost
-social factors
-cultural factors
-ethical factors

Question 2

what is meant by functionality?

Answer 2

how the fabric performs e.g warmth, durability, strength and absorbency.

manufactures have to consider the most important qualities needed to suit the product use.

Question 3

what is meant by aesthetics?

Answer 3

how the fabric looks visually or feels for pleasure

textile materials need to look attractive to keep up with latest fashion trends. e.g colour, finish, thickness

Question 4

what is meant by environment?

Answer 4

what impact will the sources and product have on the environment- is it possible to use different materials that have been made in a way not to harm the environment.

Question 5

what is meant by avaliability?

Answer 5

if the material readily available in quantities needed

Question 6

what is meant by cost?

Answer 6

if the choice of material is cost effective

companies need to consider if the material is within the budget.

Question 7

what is meant by social factors?

Answer 7

if the materials used or manufacturing methods are likely to have an major effect on lives of people involved

Question 8

what is meant by cultural factors?

Answer 8

if the product fit with the cultural values of the target market or offend anyone (e.g religious symbols ect might cause offence)

Question 9

what is meant by ethical factors?

Answer 9

what the ethical impact of making and using the product is

Question 10

what are some ways to fix social issues?

Answer 10

• use organic materials or more sustainable regenerated fibres
  -reduce carbon emmissions by making products nearer to where they are to be sold
  -using more ecological forms of transport and fuel
  -grow cotton fibres already coloured
  -ensure workers are treated fairly