Track: Design and Analysis

Abstract

The study aims to maximise the usage of the fabric and minimise the pre-production waste through the sustainable practice of zero waste pattern making and cutting technique. The entire process of designing and production of garments are now being challenged as the industry has been contributing as one of the most polluting industries, where the whole production loop needs to be looked at, from the design, manufacture, usage, to disposal stage. This research applied an exploratory research method by having exploration on pattern making technique on pre-production stage of garment making. Trials and errors using geometric pattern arrangement were conducted in the zero-waste approach while considering seam allowances and finishing technique in minimising the fabric waste. Paper folding technique was also implemented to support the design visualisation and further to ensure the garment fit. A fashion collection was made in response to introducing zero waste cutting as an alternative practice to create creative patternmaking with fabric efficiency considerations. Overall, this study offers economic and ecological benefit that helps in utilising the fabric on garment production, at the same time adding value to leftover fabric. The study also sees the potential improvement in doing more zero waste pattern cutting as part of the design process in the future.

Keywords

zero waste pattern, sustainable fashion, pattern cutting, paper folding technique, garment