Jul . 05, 2024 09:49 Back to list

Advantages of Viscose/Rayon

Viscose is synonymous with rayon, and the name comes from the honey-like texture that occurs during the manufacturing process. The main ingredient in viscose is wood pulp, making it hard to classify as either synthetic or natural. Though the wood pulp makes it natural, the manufacturing process (a very polluting one) is very much driven by man.

Advantages:

inexpensive
known for its silk-like feel
drapes beautifully
breathable, similar to cotton in this regard
ideal for those seeking a luxurious look and feel at a more economical price point
blends well with other fibers, particularly woven ones
dyes easily and produces beautiful, vivid colors

However, like any other fabric, viscose isn’t without its disadvantages.

WOVEN VISCOSE FABRIC DIGITAL PRINT TELA CHALLIS DIGITAL DISCHARGE PRINT RAYON FABRICS RAYON VISCOSE MODAL FABRIC

almost always needs to be dry cleaned
manufacturing process is extremely polluting and harmful to the environment, classifying it as an unsustainable fabric despite being made of natural materials (wood)
prone to stretching and bagging and often doesn’t recover
fabric is weak, and even weaker when wet
not recommended for use in home furnishings (due to stretch factor listed above)
absorbs moisture, body oils, and water, which may result in spots
spot treating can lead to permanent marking

These disadvantages are the main reason I only use truly natural fabrics like cotton and silk in my collection.

In my own experience, viscose and rayon are most appreciated in a fabric blend. I have worked with linen/rayon blends that drape beautifully due to the nature of the rayon, as 100% linen is a rather crisp fabric. Together, they make up where the other one lacks.

What is Rayon Fabric? Sustainability, Pros and Cons