#15 - SUMMARY

    Summary

        I have learned a lot throughout this class. I had very little knowledge about textiles and fabrics before this class. I knew a few fiber types, such as wool or nylon, but I have learned many more fiber types throughout this semester. I learned the difference between natural and synthetic fibers. I also learned about when to use each type of fiber. We talked about how to know whether a product is better for commercial or residential use. I also learned how to determine the quality and durability of a product. It is important to understand this as an interior designer so that I can pick the best products for my future clients. 

I learned about the many uses of textiles and fabrics in design. Before this class, I had never considered how many products are made from fabric. I only thought about upholstery and obvious uses. I learned about how the choice of textile for flooring is very important. It is also used for bedding, window coverings, rugs, and so much more. Understanding how different types of fibers create different characteristics in textiles is very important. 

Throughout each topic we discussed in this class, we also talked about sustainability. It is very important to consider sustainability when making textile and product selections. This is the responsibility of an interior designer. We talked about how to check the characteristics and quality of different textiles. It is important to see if the textile uses recycled materials and if they are ACT-approved. I learned that ACT provides performance guidelines related to abrasion, colorfastness to light, wet and dry crocking, etc. Symbols are used to represent these characteristics. This makes it easier for designers to understand the quality of the material faster. Overall, this class taught me a lot, and I think it gives me an advantage entering the industry.