Developed with input from personnel in the industries, this reference book complements a matching curriculum guide for a course on the textiles and apparel industries. The book emphasizes job skills and the attitudes and interpersonal skills needed for successful employment in the textiles/apparel industry. Each of the 22 chapters of the book begins with one or more essential elements and objectives. Within the text, highlighted vocabulary terms are defined or explained. Chapter summaries, vocabulary sections, and review questions are provided for each chapter. A 34-item reference list and an index of technical terms appear at the end of the book. The chapters cover these topics: the textiles and apparel industries; job success in these industries; maintaining customer relations; safety and sanitation; goals, policies, and procedures; textiles and apparel--terminology, use, and care; selection of fabrics and notions for garment design; elements and principles of design; sewing, repairing, and pressing techniques; measuring for custom-made garments; pattern alteration procedures; unit construction techniques; garment alterations--fitting; garment alterations--adjustments; quality in apparel and accessories; coordinating apparel and accessories; marketing--promotions and special events; visual merchandising; use and care of sewing and pressing equipment; receiving, marking, and identifying laundry and dry cleaning; laundry and dry cleaning procedures; and safety and sanitation for laundering, pressing, and dry cleaning. (KC)