Material lexicon: 100% viscose

The world of fabrics consists of an abundance of types, patterns and colors in which it is difficult to navigate. Let's penetrate together into the secrets of processing and the entire production of selected fabrics .

We can write long articles about 100% viscose , where we will learn how viscose has recently come to the fore and gradually displaced the old known substances. She didn't become a trend for nothing, but she rightly deserved her place.

From the very first lines, it's clear that we're going to focus on 100% viscose fabric and the entire process it has to go through before it reaches us in the form of a stunning fashion piece.

What is the history of viscose fabric and how is it created?

Viscose fibers , or artificial silk, began to be created under the hands of a French chemist as early as 1891, who was inspired by his predecessors. Over the years, its technology has undergone great development and improvement of the entire process, which has resulted in the creation of several new types of substances . All new species, however, have one thing in common and that is the raw material from which they are made.

The basic raw material for the production of viscose fabrics is pulp, which is obtained most often from cotton , but also from a slightly non-traditional material , which is wood. The obtained pure pulp is processed in factories for the production of artificial silk in the form of rigid thin cardboards, from which a thick solution is obtained. The solution is forced through hard metal nozzles under high pressure. The number of nozzles affects the density of fibers, which can be a few dozen or even several thousand.

Viscose fibers obtained from the wood of conifers or beeches have a slightly different production process and maybe even a little more interesting for chemistry lovers. Ground wood is boiled in tanks with a solution of CaSO ₃ acid. The resulting mass is discharged into a tank with a double bottom, and the waste and grayish-yellow slurry are separated into each other, which is further processed. Further processing of viscose fibers from wood is then very similar to production from cotton pulp. Dissolving cellulose in caustic soda produces viscose , which is pushed through fine holes into an acid bath. Along the way, the remains of the bath are removed from the viscose , the fiber is dried and later wound into cores.

What are the properties of viscose fabric?

During the entire process, viscose fabrics acquire unique properties that win us over at first sight and touch. What are these exceptional features? Some may have a high gloss that gives the fabric an elegant look, unique colors, strength yet softness, a cool feeling on hot days, or flow. In addition to the good properties, but unfortunately also the bad ones, and that is the higher wrinkling of the fabric when worn and shrinkage before the first wash.

How to work with viscose fabric?

Viscose is an excellent material for sewing, thanks to its flexibility and lightness. It is soft to the touch and has a natural luster that makes it an ideal choice for elegant garments.

Choice of viscose sewing tools

It is important to choose the right tools for sewing viscose. This is a delicate material that requires needles and threads of appropriate size and strength. Small, sharp needles and strong threads are ideal. When sewing machines are used, it is recommended to use fine machine needles and set the machine to a looser tension to prevent damage to the fabric.

Viscose processing (cutting, sewing, gluing)

When cutting viscose, it is important to use sharp scissors and handle the material gently to avoid tearing. Care must be taken when sewing to avoid damaging the fabric. Gluing viscose is usually not recommended as it can damage the fine structure of the fabric.

Maintenance and handling of viscose fabric

Viscose requires gentle maintenance to maintain its quality and longevity. It is important to follow the following instructions for the maintenance and handling of this material.

Washing viscose (temperature, cycle, detergents)

When washing viscose, it is important to set the correct temperature and cycle. In general, it should be washed in cold water on a gentle cycle. It is also important to use gentle detergents that will not damage the fabric.

What to sew from viscose fabric?

Viscose dresses, skirts, loose trousers, blouses or tunics rule the world's catwalks and it's no wonder. The lightness of viscose fabrics must have excited more than one designer, who combines simple and complex patterns with monochromatic classics. Let's get drawn into this pleasant world of viscose fabrics together with them.

Summer trousers made of viscose

Summer trousers made of viscose are a comfortable choice for warm days. Viscose is naturally breathable and absorbs moisture, which increases wearing comfort. Its soft and smooth surface also gives the pants an elegant look. An alternative material for summer trousers is cotton, which is also breathable and absorbs sweat. Cotton is also very durable and easy to maintain.

Loose viscose summer shirt

Viscose shirts are ideal for summer due to their lightness and breathability. These properties enable optimal air circulation and prevent sweating. As an alternative, cotton can be used, which is also a good choice for summer shirts. A cotton shirt provides the same breathability as viscose, plus it is more durable and easier to wash.

Viscose summer dress

Viscose dresses are a popular choice for summer dresses due to their lightness and breathability. In addition, viscose provides a soft and shiny appearance that gives the dress an elegant look. An alternative material for summer dresses is cotton, which is also breathable and comfortable to wear. Cotton is also durable and easy to maintain, which is a big advantage for summer clothes.

Summer skirt made of viscose

The viscose summer skirt offers an elegant and comfortable option for warm days. Viscose is light and breathable, which increases wearing comfort. An alternative material for summer skirts is cotton. Cotton provides the same breathability as viscose and is also very durable, which is ideal for frequent washing.

Blouse with frill made of viscose

A blouse with a viscose frill can be a great addition to your wardrobe. Viscose is breathable and lightweight, which increases wearing comfort, while its soft and smooth surface gives the blouse an elegant look. An alternative to viscose can be silk, which is known for its luxurious look and feel on the skin. Silk is also breathable and can be a great choice for more formal blouses.