VISCOSE
Viscose fabric is rapidly gaining traction in the UK fashion industry, thanks to its remarkable versatility and appealing qualities. It occupies a unique space between natural and synthetic materials, combining the best of both worlds. But what exactly is viscose fabric, and why should it be a key consideration for clothing brands? This article delves into the intricacies of viscose, covering its production process, benefits, applications, sustainability aspects, and how it fits into modern fashion trends. The aim is to provide a comprehensive understanding of this extraordinary material and its potential for UK clothing manufacturers.
WHAT IS VISCOSE FABRIC?
Viscose is a semi-synthetic fibre made from regenerated cellulose, typically derived from wood pulp. Its origins trace back to the early 19th century when it was first developed as a more affordable alternative to silk. Viscose offers a luxurious feel and drape, like natural fabrics like silk and cotton, but at a fraction of the cost.
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PROPERTIES OF VISCOSE
- Softness: One of the standout features of viscose is its incredible softness. This luxurious texture makes it a joy to wear, ensuring comfort against the skin.
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- Breathability: Viscose is highly breathable, allowing for excellent air circulation, making it ideal for summer clothing and warm climates.
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- Drape: The fabric has a superb drape that creates elegant, flowing silhouettes. This makes it perfect for a variety of garments, including dresses, blouses, and skirts.
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- Versatility: Viscose can be processed to mimic the texture of more expensive fabrics like silk, wool, and cotton, enabling designers to achieve diverse looks with a single fabric type.
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- Dyeing Capabilities: Viscose excels in dyeing, absorbing colour beautifully and retaining vibrant hues, which is particularly appealing for fashion brands looking for eye-catching designs.
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- Ease of Care: Viscose is relatively easy to care for, requiring only gentle handwashing or a delicate machine cycle. This practicality makes it suitable for everyday wear.
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- Hypoallergenic Properties: Viscose is hypoallergenic, making it a safe choice for individuals with sensitive skin, further broadening its appeal.
HOW IS VISCOSE FABRIC MADE?
The production of viscose fabric involves several key steps that transform wood pulp into a soft, luxurious fabric.
1. SOURCING CELLULOSE
The first step in viscose production involves sourcing cellulose from wood pulp. Fast-growing trees like beech, pine, and eucalyptus are commonly used for this purpose. These species are selected for their rapid growth and high cellulose content, which supports sustainable practices.
2. STEEPING
After harvesting, the wood is chipped into small pieces and steeped in a sodium hydroxide solution. This process purifies the cellulose fibres, preparing them for further processing.
3. SHREDDING AND CRUMB FORMATION
The alkali cellulose sheets resulting from the steeping process are shredded into a crumbly substance known as "white crumb." This substance is treated with carbon disulfide, transforming it into "yellow crumb," which is more workable.
4. DISSOLUTION
The yellow crumb is then dissolved in another sodium hydroxide solution to create a viscous, honey-like liquid called viscose solution. This step is crucial, as it allows for the extrusion of fibres.
5. FILTRATION AND AGEING
After filtration to remove impurities, the viscose solution undergoes controlled ageing to reach the desired viscosity. This step is essential for producing high-quality fibres.
6. SPINNING
The solution is extruded through a spinneret, forming long filaments. These filaments are solidified in a bath of sulfuric acid, which helps to stabilise the fibres.
7. WASHING AND BLEACHING
Once solidified, the filaments are washed to remove any residual chemicals. Following this, they may undergo bleaching to achieve the desired whiteness.
8. SPINNING INTO YARN
The resulting fibres are spun into yarns, which can be woven or knitted into fabric. This controlled process allows manufacturers to tailor the final product’s characteristics to meet various design needs.
SUSTAINABILITY ASPECTS OF VISCOSE FABRIC
The sustainability of viscose fabric is a complex and often debated topic. On one hand, it is derived from natural cellulose, making it renewable compared to petroleum-based synthetics. However, traditional production methods have faced scrutiny for their environmental impact, particularly concerning chemical usage and deforestation.
RESPONSIBLE SOURCING
When sourced responsibly, viscose can support sustainable forestry practices. Many manufacturers are now committed to sourcing cellulose from suppliers adhering to sustainable forestry standards. Certifications such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) help ensure that the wood pulp used for viscose comes from responsibly managed forests.
ECO-FRIENDLY PRODUCTION METHODS
In response to environmental concerns, the viscose industry is evolving. Many manufacturers are adopting eco-friendly practices, including closed-loop systems that recycle chemicals used in production. This approach significantly reduces waste and pollution, making the production process more sustainable.
THE LYOCELL PROCESS
The adoption of the Lyocell process represents another positive development in viscose production. This method employs non-toxic solvents and generates less waste compared to traditional viscose production, making it a more sustainable alternative. Brands that utilise Lyocell can offer consumers eco-friendly options without compromising on quality.
CONSUMER RESPONSIBILITY
Consumers also play a critical role in the sustainability of viscose fabrics. Proper care and responsible disposal of viscose garments can extend their lifespan and reduce their ecological footprint. While viscose is biodegradable, avoiding landfill disposal and opting for recycling can further enhance its sustainability profile.
BENEFITS OF USING VISCOSE IN YOUR CLOTHING BRAND
Integrating viscose fabric into your clothing brand offers numerous advantages that can enhance your products and attract a wider customer base.
LUXURIOUS FEEL
Viscose mimics the texture of natural fibres, delivering a soft finish that feels wonderful against the skin. This luxurious feel can elevate your brand's appeal, making garments more desirable to consumers.
BREATHABILITY
Viscose's breathable nature makes it perfect for warm-weather clothing. This feature ensures customers stay cool and comfortable, a vital selling point for summer collections.
EXCELLENT DRAPE
The fabric’s excellent drape allows for the creation of elegant silhouettes, adding sophistication to garments. This is particularly advantageous for dresses and blouses, where draping can enhance the overall aesthetic.
VERSATILITY
Depending on processing, viscose can mimic various fabrics, enabling you to achieve different styles within a single collection. This adaptability simplifies sourcing and production, reducing the need for multiple fabric types.
VIBRANT COLOURS
Viscose's dyeing capabilities result in vibrant, long-lasting colours, enabling eye-catching garments that stand out in the market. This is crucial for fashion brands aiming to capture consumer attention.
EASE OF CARE
Caring for viscose is relatively straightforward, requiring minimal maintenance compared to delicate natural fibres. This practicality appeals to modern consumers who value both style and convenience.
HYPOALLERGENIC PROPERTIES
Viscose’s hypoallergenic characteristics broaden your potential customer base, catering to individuals with sensitive skin. This inclusive approach can enhance brand loyalty and customer satisfaction.
WHAT TYPES OF CLOTHING CAN BE MADE WITH VISCOSE?
DRESSES AND SKIRTS
Flowing dresses and skirts are particularly popular uses for viscose, as its excellent drape and softness create elegant shapes, whether for casual summer wear or sophisticated evening gowns. The fabric’s fluidity enhances movement, making it ideal for both formal and informal occasions.
BLOUSES AND TOPS
Viscose blouses benefit from the fabric's breathable and smooth texture, making them comfortable for everyday wear. These garments can range from simple designs to more elaborate styles, suitable for both casual and formal occasions, allowing designers to experiment with various cuts and details.
TROUSERS AND SHORTS
Viscose is favoured for trousers and shorts, offering comfort and versatility. Its lightweight nature provides ease while mimicking the appearance of other materials, achieving both relaxed and polished looks. This versatility makes viscose an excellent choice for both work and leisurewear.
INTIMATE APPAREL
The softness and lightweight characteristics of viscose make it perfect for intimate apparel, such as lingerie and nightwear, where comfort is paramount. The fabric's ability to drape elegantly enhances the aesthetic appeal of such garments.
ACCESSORIES
Scarves are made from viscose shine, as the fabric holds vibrant colours beautifully, allowing for stylish, eye-catching designs. Viscose can also be used for wraps, shawls, and other accessories, offering a range of options for consumers looking to enhance their outfits.
FAQ
IS VISCOSE FABRIC BIODEGRADABLE?
Yes, viscose fabric is biodegradable as it is made from natural cellulose. It can break down naturally, particularly when untreated.
HOW SHOULD I CARE FOR VISCOSE GARMENTS?
Handwashing or a gentle machine cycle with cold water is recommended to maintain quality and prevent shrinking. Always check care labels for specific instructions.
CAN VISCOSE FABRIC CAUSE ALLERGIES?
Viscose is generally hypoallergenic, suitable for individuals with sensitive skin. However, it’s wise to test a small area first if you have concerns.
IS VISCOSE A GOOD FABRIC FOR ACTIVEWEAR?
While viscose is breathable and wicks moisture, it may not be as durable as specialised synthetic fabrics for high-performance sports. It’s ideal for casual activewear.
DOES VISCOSE FABRIC WRINKLE EASILY?
Viscose can wrinkle, but this depends on its weave and treatment. Light ironing or steaming can help, and hanging garments properly minimises creases.
IS VISCOSE ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY?
Viscose can be eco-friendly when sourced from responsibly managed forests and produced using sustainable methods. Look for certifications like FSC or PEFC.
CAN VISCOSE BE BLENDED WITH OTHER FABRICS?
Yes, viscose is often blended with fibres like cotton or polyester to enhance durability, elasticity, and overall feel.
HOW DOES VISCOSE COMPARE TO COTTON?
Viscose has a silkier texture and better drape than cotton. Both are breathable, but viscose is softer and more luxurious, making it a popular choice for stylish garments.
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Viscose fabric is an asset for clothing manufacturers in the UK, offering a unique blend of luxury, versatility, and sustainability. As consumer demand shifts towards eco-friendly products, the responsible sourcing and production of viscose can meet these expectations while providing high-quality garments. By embracing the qualities of viscose, brands can create diverse collections that resonate with a wide audience, ensuring that they remain competitive in the evolving fashion landscape.
