Animal Print
Animal print is a pattern that depicts the spots, stripes, or other motifs inspired by the fur or skin patterns of animals such as leopards and zebras.
Contents6 sections
Definition and Overview
Animal print is a general term for patterns that stylize characteristic motifs such as spots, stripes, and scale-like shapes seen on animal bodies. It is not a term that indicates textile structure, and it is expressed in various ways, including print, Jacquard, and fuzzy finishes.
Not only realistic reproductions of patterns found on actual animals, but also abstract designs with changed colors and spot sizes are called animal print. From the pattern name alone, you cannot determine the material, thickness, stretch, or seasonality.
How the Pattern Is Formed and What It Is Called
Typical types include leopard print, which uses a motif based on leopard spots, zebra print, which represents zebra stripes, and python print, which expresses snake scales. In general, animal print is a broad term that includes these patterns.
Leopard print and leopard pattern are often used with the same meaning, but the impression can differ greatly depending on the outline of the pattern, the density of the spots, and the base color. In planning and ordering, it is important to check not only the name but also the swatch and the pattern repeat.
- Leopard print: a pattern using irregular ring-shaped or spot-like motifs.
- Zebra print: a pattern with continuous light-and-dark stripes, generally with a clear direction.
- Python print: a pattern using continuous motifs that evoke snake scales.
- Dalmatian print: a pattern using irregular round spots.
Main Applications and Seasonality
It is used for blouses, shirts, skirts, dresses, pants, jackets, linings, bags, and more. Small patterns are relatively easy to incorporate, while large patterns and high-contrast patterns are likely to become a visual focal point of the product.
Animal print itself is not limited to any season. If the material is lightweight and drapey, it is used for spring and summer blouses and dresses; if it is fuzzy material, knit, or heavy woven fabric, it is used for autumn and winter tops and outerwear. Seasonal suitability is determined mainly by the base fabric and finish.
Points to Note When Choosing Fabric and Cutting
When selecting fabric, check the pattern size, repeat, and the contrast between the base color and motif color, as well as the sheerness, drape, and durability required for the applications. If the pattern is large, the appearance changes depending on the product size and seam placement, so consider how it will look in specific areas as well.
Patterns with a clear top-to-bottom direction or flow, such as zebra print, may require one-way cutting. In this case, more fabric than usual may be needed. For fabrics with pile, align the pile direction as well, and decide the cutting instructions together with the pattern direction.
If necessary, match the pattern at the left and right front panels, collar, pockets, front placket, side seams, and other areas. However, irregular spot patterns are difficult to match perfectly, so one approach is to adjust the layout so that large motifs do not become concentrated in conspicuous areas.
Differences from Similar Terms
Camouflage pattern is a pattern made by combining multiple irregular color areas, and it is distinguished from animal print, which is mainly inspired by animal body patterns. Likewise, floral patterns and geometric patterns are classifications by motif type, and their source of design inspiration differs from that of animal print.
Print refers to the processing method of applying a pattern to fabric, while animal print refers to the type of design. Therefore, animal print is often expressed by printing, but it can also be expressed through weaving, knitting, or tonal differences in fuzzy finishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between animal print and leopard print?
Animal print is the general term for patterns inspired by the fur or skin patterns of animals. Leopard print refers to the pattern based on leopard spots within that category. Zebra print and python print are also generally included in animal print.
Does animal print fabric require more yardage?
Yardage varies depending on the direction and size of the pattern and whether pattern matching is required. For directional or large patterns, extra fabric may be needed to align the cutting direction and motif positions. Confirm based on the pattern, fabric width, and pattern repeat.
What should be checked especially when cutting animal print?
Check the top-to-bottom and left-to-right direction of the pattern, the motifs that appear at the center of the front panels and pocket positions, and the balance between the left and right panels. For fuzzy fabrics and faux fur, the direction of the pile is also important. Mark before cutting and lay out the pieces while checking the pattern placement.
