Flat sheets of fabric with holes and slits cut into the fabric can curve and fold in 3D space in extensively complex ways that require a high level of skill and experience to manipulate into a smooth, ripple-free design. Aligning and orienting patterns printed or woven into the fabric extends the design process. But once a clothing designer with these skills has created the initial product, the fabric can then be cut using templates and sewn by laborers or machines.

http://www.sewing.org/

See www.threadsmagazine.com May 2008