The seven fold types (pipe, zigzag, spiral, half-lock, diaper, drop, inert)

Identify and draw seven recurring fold types to organize drapery around supports, joints, and the body beneath.

What it is

The seven names describe recurring fold patterns. You can use them to sort folds in reference or on a model, then simplify and design the drapery around those patterns.

Pipe folds hang as long, parallel tubes from a support, as in a curtain or long skirt. Zigzag folds move back and forth in a sharp rhythm where cloth is pressed between points. Spiral folds wrap around a cylindrical form, such as a twisted sleeve or pant leg. Half-lock folds bend sharply over an edge or joint, with one sharp fold and softer folds around it.

Diaper folds create diamond or grid patterns when cloth hangs or sags between several supports. Drop folds hang from one point and spread outward in a fan or cone. Inert folds are soft, irregular ripples with no strong pull or clear direction. When studying or inventing clothing, identify the main fold types first, then add secondary wrinkles as needed.

Why it matters

Understanding fold types helps explain how fabric hangs and how it relates to the body beneath. Weak control can make drapery read as generic wrinkles, flatten the forms underneath, or make different garments share the same pattern.

You can check it when

✓Label the main folds in clothing reference as pipe, zigzag, spiral, half-lock, diaper, drop, or inert.
✓Redraw a garment with fewer lines by organizing its folds into these types while preserving the garment's identity.
✓Invent a simple sleeve or skirt and place fold types according to its joints and support points.
✓Review drapery studies for varied fold types that match the pose and support points.

The seven fold types (pipe, zigzag, spiral, half-lock, diaper, drop, inert)

What it is

Why it matters

You can check it when

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