Creative Design: Professional

Gradable Zero Waste: Space Lace Dress

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Abstract

ZeroWaste (ZW) design is “fashion design that wastes no fabric, by integrating pattern cutting into the design process” (Rissanen & McQuillan, 2016, p.11). ZW patternmaking is challenging to grade without sacrificing the aesthetic qualities of the size extremes (smallest and largest sizes). Designer,Carrico (2018, 2020a, 2020b) pioneered a method of grading ZW designs by inserting strips of fabric into seams. This grading method allows garments to grow or shrink without disturbing the ZW pattern. The purpose of this design was to create gradable ZW eveningwear. The designer draped on a size 8 dress form and produced a ZW pattern. Strips were inserted into key seams to allow the garment to be graded. Two graded muslins ­were prepared in the size extremes (4 and 12)to verify the grading. The design was constructed from black 100% polyester satin and embroidered lace for mass-market appeal.

Keywords: Zero Waste, pattern grading, mass market, eveningwear

How to Cite:

Stannard, C. R., (2022) “Gradable Zero Waste: Space Lace Dress”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 78(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.13490