Which fabric is described as having a stiff hand and being sheer, used for apparel and draperies?

• A. Organdy
• B. Drapery sheer
• C. Plisse
• D. Crinoline

Answer: (A)

Fabrics that are both see-through and crisp have a distinctive stiff hand. Organdy achieves this by using a tight weave and a finish that firms the fibers, giving a transparent, crisp feel. That stiffness lets the fabric hold shapes such as pleats and ruffles, which is why it’s preferred for apparel like blouses and dresses and for draperies where you want light to pass through but the fabric to maintain structure. Other options don’t combine both traits as well: something described as a drapery sheer is sheer but not necessarily stiff; plisse is textured with puckers rather than a crisp hand; crinoline is very stiff and bulky but not transparent. So the fabric that best fits both the stiff hand and the sheer quality is organdy.