Investigations have shown that non-linear finite element analysis (FEM) can be applied successfully to study fabric/drape. An effective way of removing one of the obstacles in the way of modelling by FEM (representing the mechanical properties) is to use shell element and membrane elements to model the fabric and to modify the stress state of the membrane elements during iterations. The deformed fabric shapes are chiefly affected by their mechanical properties (bending rigidity, density, shape). There are 11 references.