2026 NECO Objective and Essay (Theory) Questions and Answers
Independently Produced Practice Paper for Revision Purposes
This is a 100% original mock examination prepared strictly with reference to the current NECO Fashion Design and Garment Making syllabus for practice purposes. It is not an NECO past question paper, it does not reproduce any official NECO document, and it does not claim to predict or represent the actual NECO examination in any way.
General Instructions
1. This paper consists of two sections: Section A (Objective) and Section B (Essay).
2. Section A contains 60 objective questions. Answer ALL questions. Time: 40 minutes.
3. Section B contains 6 essay questions. Answer any FOUR (4) questions. Time: 1 hour 40 minutes.
4. Total marks obtainable: 100 (60 marks for Section A and 40 marks for Section B).
5. Write clearly and number your answers correctly.
SECTION A: OBJECTIVE QUESTIONS (60 MARKS)
Answer ALL questions. Each question carries 1 mark. Choose the correct option A, B, C or D.
1. Fashion Design and Garment Making can best be defined as the
A. study of plant fibres only
B. art and skill of creating, planning and constructing clothing and accessories
C. process of dyeing fabrics alone
D. study of interior decoration
2. Which of the following is a natural fibre used in fabric production?
A. Polyester
B. Cotton
C. Nylon
D. Acrylic
3. Which of the following is a synthetic (man-made) fibre?
A. Wool
B. Silk
C. Polyester
D. Cotton
4. Cotton fibre is obtained from the
A. cocoon of a silkworm
B. seed pod of the cotton plant
C. fleece of a sheep
D. stem of the flax plant
5. Silk fibre is obtained from the
A. seed pod of a plant
B. cocoon of the silkworm
C. fleece of a sheep
D. stem of a plant
6. Wool fibre is obtained mainly from the
A. cotton plant
B. silkworm
C. fleece of sheep
D. flax plant
7. Which of the following is a property of cotton fabric?
A. Poor absorbency
B. Good absorbency and comfortable to wear
C. It melts easily under heat
D. It is completely wrinkle free
8. The process of converting fibres into yarn is called
A. weaving
B. spinning
C. knitting
D. dyeing
9. The process of interlacing two sets of yarns at right angles to produce fabric is called
A. knitting
B. weaving
C. felting
D. spinning
10. The process of forming fabric by interlocking a series of loops of yarn is called
A. weaving
B. knitting
C. spinning
D. felting
11. Which of the following is an example of a woven fabric?
A. Jersey
B. Poplin
C. Knitted vest
D. Felt
12. Which of the following tools is used for taking body measurements?
A. Tailor’s chalk
B. Tape measure
C. Seam ripper
D. Thimble
13. The tool used to mark fabric before cutting is called
A. tailor’s chalk
B. tape measure
C. pin cushion
D. thimble
14. A small cushion used to hold pins conveniently while sewing is called a
A. thimble
B. pin cushion
C. bodkin
D. awl
15. The protective device worn on the finger to push the needle through fabric while hand sewing is called a
A. thimble
B. bodkin
C. seam ripper
D. tracing wheel
16. A tool used to unpick stitches or open seams is called a
A. seam ripper
B. bodkin
C. tailor’s chalk
D. tracing wheel
A. tracing wheel
B. seam ripper
C. bodkin
D. thimble
18. A needle-like tool with a large eye used to thread elastic or cord through a casing is called a
A. thimble
B. bodkin
C. tracing wheel
D. seam ripper
19. Which of the following is a basic hand stitch used to join two pieces of fabric temporarily before permanent sewing?
A. Tacking stitch
B. Hemming stitch
C. Overcasting stitch
D. Buttonhole stitch
20. The stitch used to neaten and prevent raw edges of fabric from fraying is called
A. tacking stitch
B. overcasting stitch
C. running stitch
D. back stitch
21. A strong, permanent hand stitch often used for hand sewing seams because each stitch overlaps the previous one is called
A. running stitch
B. back stitch
C. tacking stitch
D. slip stitch
22. The stitch used to finish the edge of a hem invisibly is called a
A. running stitch
B. slip stitch (hemming stitch)
C. back stitch
D. overcasting stitch
23. Which of the following is a basic sewing machine stitch?
A. Straight stitch
B. Zigzag stitch
C. Buttonhole stitch
D. All of the above
24. The part of the sewing machine that holds the fabric in place while sewing is called the
A. presser foot
B. bobbin
C. spool pin
D. hand wheel
25. The small case containing the lower thread in a sewing machine is called the
A. spool
B. bobbin
C. shuttle
D. needle plate
26. Which part of the sewing machine controls the length of the stitch?
A. Presser foot
B. Stitch length regulator
C. Bobbin winder
D. Spool pin
27. Regular cleaning and oiling of a sewing machine to keep it in good working condition is called
A. servicing/maintenance
B. threading
C. basting
D. grading
28. The process of taking accurate body measurements before drafting a pattern is called
A. fitting
B. measurement taking
C. cutting
D. pressing
29. A flat template used as a guide for cutting fabric into the shape of a garment is called a
A. pattern
B. trimming
C. seam allowance
D. hemline
30. The extra fabric allowed beyond the stitching line for joining pieces together is called the
A. hemline
B. seam allowance
C. dart
D. pleat
31. A fold of fabric stitched to shape a garment to fit the curves of the body, such as at the bust, is called a
A. dart
B. pleat
C. gather
D. tuck
32. A series of folds pressed or stitched into fabric to control fullness is called a
A. dart
B. pleat
C. seam
D. hem
33. The process of drawing an outline of a garment pattern to scale on paper is called
A. pattern drafting
B. pattern grading
C. fabric cutting
D. garment fitting
34. The process of enlarging or reducing a pattern to different sizes is called
A. pattern drafting
B. pattern grading
C. pattern cutting
D. pattern layout
35. Which of the following is a factor to consider before cutting out fabric using a pattern?
A. Grain line of the fabric
B. Direction of the pattern (nap)
C. Correct pattern layout to avoid wastage
D. All of the above
36. The finished edge along the bottom of a garment, folded and stitched to prevent fraying, is called the
A. seam
B. hem
C. dart
D. yoke
37. A narrow strip of fabric used to finish a raw edge or opening of a garment neatly is called a
A. facing
B. gusset
C. yoke
D. placket
38. A triangular or diamond shaped piece of fabric inserted into a garment to give ease of movement, often under the arm, is called a
A. facing
B. gusset
C. yoke
D. dart
39. A fitted piece at the shoulder or waist of a garment, from which the rest of the fabric hangs, is called a
A. gusset
B. yoke
C. placket
D. facing
40. The opening in a garment, usually closed with buttons or a zipper, to allow it to be put on and taken off, is called a
A. placket
B. yoke
C. gusset
D. facing
41. Which of the following is a fastening device commonly used in garment construction?
A. Button
B. Zipper
C. Hook and eye
D. All of the above
42. The process of applying heat and pressure to fabric or a garment to remove creases is called
A. basting
B. pressing
C. grading
D. trimming
43. The application of colour to fabric to change or add to its original colour is called
A. dyeing
B. printing
C. weaving
D. bleaching
44. The process of applying a design or pattern onto the surface of fabric using dyes, blocks or screens is called
A. dyeing
B. printing
C. spinning
D. felting
45. Which of the following is a traditional Nigerian method of fabric decoration using resist dyeing techniques?
A. Adire
B. Batik only
C. Screen printing
D. Machine embroidery
46. The traditional Nigerian technique of hand-stitching or tying fabric before dyeing to create patterns is a type of
A. tie and dye/adire eleko
B. machine printing
C. weaving
D. knitting
47. Which of the following factors should be considered when selecting fabric for a particular garment?
A. Purpose of the garment
B. Climate/weather condition
C. Cost and availability
D. All of the above
48. Which of the following is an element of design in fashion?
A. Line
B. Colour
C. Texture
D. All of the above
49. The repetition of a design feature at regular intervals in a garment is referred to as
A. balance
B. rhythm
C. proportion
D. emphasis
50. The principle of design concerned with the relationship of sizes of different parts of a garment is called
A. rhythm
B. proportion
C. harmony
D. emphasis
51. Which of the following is an example of a career opportunity in fashion design and garment making?
A. Fashion designer
B. Tailor/seamstress
C. Fashion illustrator
D. All of the above
52. The finished drawing that shows how a designed garment will look on the body is called a
A. fashion sketch/illustration
B. pattern
C. seam allowance
D. specification sheet
53. Which of the following body shapes is generally described as having the bust, waist and hip measurements almost equal?
A. Hourglass shape
B. Rectangle/straight shape
C. Pear shape
D. Inverted triangle shape
54. Which of the following is a common quality expected of a well-constructed garment?
A. Uneven seams
B. Neat finishing and correct fit
C. Loose, fraying hems
D. Mismatched fabric grain
55. Which of the following is a safety precaution to observe while using a sewing machine?
A. Keeping fingers away from the needle while stitching
B. Leaving the machine running unattended
C. Using a bent or blunt needle
D. Ignoring machine maintenance
56. A garment or accessory made specifically to fit and represent the exact measurements and preferences of one client is described as
A. ready-to-wear
B. made-to-measure/bespoke
C. mass produced
D. factory made
57. Clothing produced in large quantities in standard sizes for the general market is referred to as
A. made-to-measure
B. bespoke tailoring
C. ready-to-wear/mass production
D. custom design
58. The final stage of garment production where the finished garment is checked for quality before delivery is called
A. quality control/inspection
B. pattern drafting
C. fabric selection
D. sketching
59. Which of the following is an example of trimmings and accessories used in garment making?
A. Lace
B. Buttons
C. Beads
D. All of the above
60. Which of the following best describes the term ‘grain line’ in fabric?
A. The direction of the threads (warp and weft) in a woven fabric
B. The colour of the fabric
C. The cost of the fabric
D. The texture of the fabric surface
SECTION A MARKING GUIDE: OBJECTIVE ANSWER KEY
Each correct answer carries 1 mark. Total = 60 marks.
| Q | Ans | Q | Ans | Q | Ans | Q | Ans |
| 1 | B | 16 | A | 31 | A | 46 | A |
| 2 | B | 17 | A | 32 | B | 47 | D |
| 3 | C | 18 | B | 33 | A | 48 | D |
| 4 | B | 19 | A | 34 | B | 49 | B |
| 5 | B | 20 | B | 35 | D | 50 | B |
| 6 | C | 21 | B | 36 | B | 51 | D |
| 7 | B | 22 | B | 37 | A | 52 | A |
| 8 | B | 23 | D | 38 | B | 53 | B |
| 9 | B | 24 | A | 39 | B | 54 | B |
| 10 | B | 25 | B | 40 | A | 55 | A |
| 11 | B | 26 | B | 41 | D | 56 | B |
| 12 | B | 27 | A | 42 | B | 57 | C |
| 13 | A | 28 | B | 43 | A | 58 | A |
| 14 | B | 29 | A | 44 | B | 59 | D |
| 15 | A | 30 | B | 45 | A | 60 | A |
SECTION B: ESSAY QUESTIONS (40 MARKS)
Answer any FOUR (4) questions only. Each question carries 10 marks.
1. (a) Define Fashion Design and Garment Making. (2 marks)
(b) List and explain four natural fibres used in fabric production. (8 marks)
2. (a) Distinguish between weaving and knitting as methods of fabric construction. (4 marks)
(b) State three characteristics each of a woven fabric and a knitted fabric. (6 marks)
3. (a) List five basic sewing tools and state one use of each. (5 marks)
(b) State four safety precautions to observe when using a sewing machine. (5 marks)
4. (a) What is a pattern in garment making? (2 marks)
(b) State four factors to consider when laying out a pattern on fabric before cutting. (8 marks)
5. (a) State the meaning of dyeing and printing as methods of fabric decoration. (4 marks)
(b) Describe briefly the traditional adire (tie and dye) technique practised in Nigeria. (6 marks)
6. (a) List four elements of design used in fashion. (4 marks)
(b) Explain any three principles of design applicable to garment construction. (6 marks)
SECTION B MARKING GUIDE (ESSAY)
Each question carries 10 marks. Award marks as guided below, giving credit for any other correct and relevant point not listed.
Question 1
(a) Fashion Design and Garment Making is the creative and technical process of planning, designing, drafting patterns for, cutting and constructing clothing and accessories to meet the needs of individuals. (2 marks for a reasonable, complete definition)
(b) Any four natural fibres at 2 marks each:
1. Cotton: Obtained from the seed pod (boll) of the cotton plant, valued for its softness and good absorbency.
2. Silk: Obtained from the cocoon of the silkworm, known for its smooth texture and natural sheen.
3. Wool: Obtained from the fleece of sheep, valued for its warmth and elasticity.
4. Linen: Obtained from the stem of the flax plant, valued for being strong, cool and absorbent.
(Award marks for any four correctly named and briefly explained natural fibres.)
Question 2
(a) Weaving is the process of interlacing two sets of yarns, the warp and the weft, at right angles on a loom to produce fabric. Knitting is the process of forming fabric by interlocking a continuous series of loops of yarn using needles. (4 marks for a clear, correct distinction)
(b) Woven fabric characteristics (any three at 1 mark each): Generally has less stretch than knitted fabric; has a firm, stable structure; frays at cut edges if not finished; has a distinct grain line (warp and weft direction).
Knitted fabric characteristics (any three at 1 mark each): Generally stretches and has more elasticity; drapes closely to the body; does not fray easily at cut edges; tends to curl at raw edges.
Question 3
(a) Any five tools with a correct use at 1 mark each: Tape measure, used for taking body measurements; tailor’s chalk, used for marking fabric before cutting; pin cushion, used for holding pins conveniently while sewing; thimble, used to protect the finger while pushing a needle through fabric; seam ripper, used for unpicking stitches; tracing wheel, used for transferring pattern markings onto fabric; bodkin, used for threading elastic or cord through a casing; scissors, used for cutting fabric and threads.
(b) Any four precautions at 1.25 marks each: Keep fingers away from the needle area while the machine is running; switch off and unplug the machine when not in use; do not leave the machine running unattended; use the correct needle size for the fabric being sewn; ensure the machine is placed on a stable, flat surface; carry out regular servicing and maintenance to prevent malfunction.
Question 4
(a) A pattern is a flat template, usually made of paper or card, that represents the shape and size of each piece of a garment, used as a guide for cutting the fabric accurately. (2 marks)
(b) Any four factors at 2 marks each:
1. Grain line: The pattern pieces should be aligned correctly with the grain of the fabric to ensure the garment hangs and fits properly.
2. Nap or one-way design: Fabrics with a nap, pile or one-directional print require all pattern pieces to face the same direction.
3. Economical use of fabric: Pattern pieces should be arranged to minimize wastage of fabric.
4. Number of pattern pieces required: All necessary pieces, including those to be cut on the fold, should be accounted for before cutting.
5. Seam allowance: Adequate seam allowance should be included around each pattern piece where required.
Question 5
(a) Dyeing is the process of applying colour to fibre, yarn or fabric so that the colour is absorbed and becomes a permanent part of the material. Printing is the process of applying a design or pattern onto the surface of fabric using dyes, blocks, screens or other printing methods, so that the colour sits mainly on the surface in a specific pattern. (4 marks, 2 marks each)
(b) Description (any three points at 2 marks each): Adire is a traditional Nigerian resist-dyeing technique, mainly practised by the Yoruba people, in which parts of the fabric are tied, stitched, folded or have starch (cassava paste) applied to prevent dye from reaching those areas; the fabric is then dipped into a dye, traditionally indigo; after dyeing, the ties, stitches or starch are removed to reveal a pattern where the resisted areas remain undyed or lighter than the rest of the fabric; the finished fabric is washed and dried, producing a unique patterned cloth commonly used for traditional and ceremonial wear.
Question 6
(a) Any four elements at 1 mark each: Line, colour, texture, shape/silhouette, space.
(b) Any three principles at 2 marks each:
1. Balance: The arrangement of design elements so that one side of a garment appears to have equal visual weight to the other, whether symmetrically or asymmetrically.
2. Proportion: The relationship of the sizes of different parts of a garment to each other and to the wearer’s body, so that the overall look appears well suited and pleasing.
3. Rhythm: The repetition of a design feature, such as buttons, pleats or a print motif, at regular intervals to create a sense of organized movement in the garment.
4. Emphasis: The use of a focal point, such as an embellishment or contrasting colour, to draw attention to a particular part of the garment.
5. Harmony: The pleasing combination of different design elements, such as colour and texture, so that they work well together as a unified whole.
Important Topics to Revise
Candidates should concentrate on the following topics:
- Introduction to Fashion Design
- Sewing Tools and Equipment
- Measuring Techniques
- Fabric Types and Properties
- Textile Fibres
- Pattern Drafting
- Garment Construction
- Seam Types and Seam Finishes
- Stitch Types
- Fashion Illustration
- Colour Theory
- Clothing Care and Maintenance
- Garment Alteration
- Fashion Accessories
- Entrepreneurial Skills in Fashion
- Safety in the Sewing Workshop
- Machine Operation and Maintenance
- Quality Control in Garment Production
These topics are commonly tested in both Objective and Essay papers.
Frequently Tested Areas
| Topic | Importance |
|---|---|
| Sewing Tools and Equipment | Very High |
| Pattern Drafting | Very High |
| Garment Construction | Very High |
| Fabric Identification | High |
| Seam and Stitch Types | High |
| Fashion Illustration | Medium |
| Clothing Care | Medium |
Candidates who understand these concepts usually perform well in the examination.
How to Score High in NECO Fashion Design and Garment Making
To improve your chances of success:
- Study the official NECO syllabus thoroughly.
- Learn the names and uses of sewing tools.
- Practice pattern drafting regularly.
- Understand different fabric types and their uses.
- Revise garment construction processes.
- Solve previous NECO technical subject questions.
- Read every examination instruction carefully.
Common Mistakes Candidates Should Avoid
Many candidates lose marks because they:
- Confuse sewing tools and their functions.
- Misidentify fabric types.
- Forget important garment construction steps.
- Ignore workshop safety rules.
- Memorize notes without understanding practical applications.
Avoiding these mistakes can significantly improve your final score.
Live Examination Updates
This page serves as a live update centre for the NECO Fashion Design and Garment Making examination.
Verified announcements, examination information, timetable updates, and post-exam discussions will be published here whenever available.
Bookmark this page and revisit it regularly for the latest updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the NECO Fashion Design and Garment Making Objective and Essay Questions Out?
No. There are currently no verified questions or answers available before the examination.
Is Fashion Design and Garment Making Difficult?
The subject becomes easier when candidates combine theoretical knowledge with practical sewing, pattern drafting, and garment construction skills.
Does NECO Repeat Fashion Design and Garment Making Questions?
Although exact questions may differ, important fashion concepts and garment construction topics are frequently tested in different forms across examination years.
How Can I Get an A1 in NECO Fashion Design and Garment Making?
Study the syllabus carefully, master sewing tools and garment construction techniques, practice pattern drafting, and revise previous examination questions consistently.
Conclusion
Many candidates search for NECO Fashion Design and Garment Making Questions and Answers 2026/2027 (Objective & Essay) before the examination. The best strategy is to understand the theory, practice garment-making skills, and revise consistently.
