Printed Textiles

    OCR
    GCSE

    Candidates must demonstrate the manipulation of surface qualities through additive and subtractive printing methods, integrating source material (AO1) into coherent repeat structures. Exploration should encompass manual techniques (block, screen, mono-printing) alongside digital processes, evidencing a systematic refinement of motifs (AO2). Critical understanding of colour theory, fabric interaction, and the technical constraints of registration is essential. High-scoring responses will explicitly link material experimentation to the final realization (AO4), showing sophisticated control over ink viscosity and substrate suitability.

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    Objectives
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    Exam Tips
    3
    Pitfalls
    3
    Key Terms
    4
    Mark Points

    What You Need to Demonstrate

    Key skills and knowledge for this topic

    • Credit evidence of systematic exploration of printing techniques (e.g., reduction lino, silk screen) where the physical properties of ink and fabric are manipulated intentionally (AO2).
    • Award marks for the seamless integration of critical understanding; candidate responses must explicitly link the stylistic traits of studied textile designers to their own motif development (AO1).
    • Assess the quality of visual recording; look for primary source observation (drawing, photography) that directly informs the thematic content of the print design (AO3).
    • Evaluate the final realisation for technical competence in registration, colour opacity, and composition, ensuring the outcome resolves the initial line of enquiry (AO4).

    Example Examiner Feedback

    Real feedback patterns examiners use when marking

    • "Your technical control of screen printing is competent; to access higher marks, layer multiple techniques (e.g., discharge paste or foil) to add depth."
    • "You have recorded the subject matter well; now refine these drawings specifically for a repeat pattern structure rather than a standalone image."
    • "The link to the influencer is clear visually, but your annotation needs to analyse *how* their use of colour influenced your specific palette choices."
    • "Ensure your final outcome demonstrates the same level of risk-taking seen in your sketchbook experiments; do not play it safe for the final piece."

    Marking Points

    Key points examiners look for in your answers

    • Credit evidence of systematic exploration of printing techniques (e.g., reduction lino, silk screen) where the physical properties of ink and fabric are manipulated intentionally (AO2).
    • Award marks for the seamless integration of critical understanding; candidate responses must explicitly link the stylistic traits of studied textile designers to their own motif development (AO1).
    • Assess the quality of visual recording; look for primary source observation (drawing, photography) that directly informs the thematic content of the print design (AO3).
    • Evaluate the final realisation for technical competence in registration, colour opacity, and composition, ensuring the outcome resolves the initial line of enquiry (AO4).

    Examiner Tips

    Expert advice for maximising your marks

    • 💡Annotate to explain *why* specific printing methods were selected over others, referencing the aesthetic qualities of the media.
    • 💡Ensure the transition from paper-based design to fabric application is documented; show how the motif changes when applied to a textile surface.
    • 💡Demonstrate control over formal elements; explicitly manipulate colour palettes and repeat structures (e.g., half-drop vs. block repeat) to alter visual impact.

    Common Mistakes

    Pitfalls to avoid in your exam answers

    • Producing 'pastiche' work that copies a designer's style without interpreting their techniques or concepts.
    • Failing to document the iterative process; presenting only perfect prints and discarding test pieces or registration errors.
    • Disconnect between the primary source recording (e.g., drawing flowers) and the final print motif (e.g., using generic clip art).

    Study Guide Available

    Comprehensive revision notes & examples

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    Key Terminology

    Essential terms to know

    Surface Pattern Design (Repeat Structures & Registration)
    Print Processes (Screen, Block, Sublimation, Digital)
    Material Manipulation (Dye Chemistry, Resist, Discharge)

    Likely Command Words

    How questions on this topic are typically asked

    Develop
    Refine
    Record
    Present
    Investigate
    Realise

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