What is Polyviscose Fabric?
Polyviscose Tartan fabric is a durable and adaptable fabric manufactured from a mixture of polyester and viscose. The combination not only makes the fabric durable, but also makes it resistant to creases and drapes, making it ideal for a selection of our tartan products.
Polyviscose Tartan fabric is highly absorbent; therefore it feels good against the skin when worn, especially appropriate for fun events and parties. Even after a lot of wear and several washings, the fabric resists shrinkage and holds its shape nicely. Due to the luxuriously smooth, wool-like texture found in high-end fabric, it has become a popular alternative to pricey wool.
What are the qualities of polyviscose?: Key Characteristics of Polyviscose Fabric
Polyviscose, a hybrid of viscose and polyester, blends the strengths of both fibers to create an adaptable and budget-friendly material. It is classified as a semi-synthetic or semi-natural fabric, offering a balance of natural feel and synthetic resilience.
This fabric retains the soft drape and smooth texture of viscose, giving it a natural, comfortable touch. However, the inclusion of polyester enhances its practicality—polyviscose is easy to maintain, machine washable, and suitable for tumble drying. Its toughness makes it an excellent choice for clothing subject to heavy use and commercial applications, such as upholstery in public spaces.
Compared to purely synthetic fabrics, polyviscose provides better moisture-wicking and breathability, although it doesn’t match the airiness of fully natural fibers like wool. Its shiny finish, inherited from both its components, adds a touch of elegance. Additionally, polyviscose can be heat-set, which is especially beneficial for items like pleated skirts or kilts that require a long-lasting crease.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Polyviscose Fabric
Benefits:
- Strength and Versatility:
Polyviscose stands out for its robustness, making it an excellent choice for both everyday use and demanding applications. It holds up well against wear, retains its form, and endures repeated washing, which is ideal for uses like school uniforms, furniture covers, and kids’ attire. - Budget-Friendly Substitute for Wool:
Offering a texture similar to the luxurious softness of wool, polyviscose provides an affordable alternative for those seeking elegance without a hefty price tag. - Skin-Friendly and Non-Irritating:
The smooth texture of polyviscose feels pleasant on the skin. It’s particularly suitable for people with sensitivities, as it avoids triggering allergic reactions commonly associated with wool. - Easy Upkeep:
Unlike delicate fabrics requiring special care, polyviscose can be machine-washed, dries quickly, and resists shrinkage and wrinkling, making it convenient for busy lifestyles. - Potential for Sustainability:
As viscose is derived from renewable plant sources, and with advances in cleaner production methods like the Lyocell technique, polyviscose can be a more eco-conscious fabric option when produced responsibly. - Stylish Adaptability:
Polyviscose holds pleats and maintains structure beautifully, making it a preferred fabric for tailored garments such as kilts and pleated dresses. - Ethical for Animal-Free Lifestyles:
Being free from animal-derived materials, polyviscose appeals to vegans and vegetarians seeking cruelty-free alternatives.
Drawbacks:
- Environmental Drawbacks:
While viscose is plant-based, its manufacturing process often involves harmful chemicals that can damage ecosystems and affect workers’ health. Furthermore, the polyester component, derived from fossil fuels, contributes to its environmental impact. - Limited Airflow:
Although more breathable than pure polyester, polyviscose doesn’t provide the same ventilation as natural fibers like cotton or wool, which might make it less suitable in hot, humid conditions. - Deforestation Concerns:
The production of viscose has been linked to deforestation, with some sourcing pulpwood from endangered forests, leading to habitat loss and potential displacement of local communities. - Chemical-Intensive Production:
The processing of viscose relies on substances like caustic soda and carbon disulfide, which, if poorly managed, can harm the environment and pose health risks. - Unsuitable for Extreme Weather:
Polyviscose doesn’t insulate as well as wool in colder conditions or offer the cooling comfort of cotton in hot climates, making it less practical for extreme weather.
FAQS About Polyviscose Fabric
What is the History of Polyviscose?
Polyviscose fabric is crafted by blending two distinct fibers: viscose and polyester.
Viscose, a semi-synthetic fiber derived from plant cellulose, was first developed in France in 1883. By the 1910s, it gained traction in the fashion and textile industry for its silky texture and versatility. It became a popular choice for items like curtains, dresses, blouses, and velvet, offering an affordable alternative to silk.
Polyester, on the other hand, is a fully synthetic fiber engineered for its durability and resistance to wrinkles and shrinkage.
When these two fibers are combined, their individual properties complement each other to create polyviscose—a fabric that is both sturdy and breathable. This innovative material embodies the softness of viscose while benefiting from the low-maintenance, resilient nature of polyester.
What is poly-viscose made from?
Polyviscose combines viscose and polyester, two fibers with distinct characteristics that complement each other when blended.
- Viscose:
Also called rayon in the U.S., viscose is a regenerated fiber derived from plant-based cellulose, typically wood pulp or bamboo. Developed in 1883 and commercially produced by 1910, viscose became popular for its silky, lightweight feel and versatility. It resists static, breathes well, and is ideal for garments like summer dresses and synthetic velvet. However, viscose alone lacks durability—it weakens significantly when wet, is prone to mildew, and may shrink or wrinkle easily. - Polyester:
A fully synthetic fiber made from petroleum, polyester is celebrated for its strength and resistance to shrinking, wrinkling, and abrasion. It dries quickly and is resistant to mildew but lacks breathability, which can make it uncomfortable in hot climates. Coloring polyester also requires a complex dyeing process due to its water-resistant nature.
When combined, the qualities of viscose and polyester balance each other. The resulting fabric, polyviscose, combines viscose’s softness and breathability with polyester’s toughness and resilience, making it versatile and practical for a wide range of applications.
Is polyviscose environmentally sustainable?
The sustainability of polyviscose is a nuanced issue, shaped by the characteristics of its two primary components—viscose and polyester.
Polyester’s Environmental Challenges
Polyester, derived from petroleum, brings significant environmental concerns. Its production relies on hydrocarbons, which contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. Additionally, the chemical-intensive manufacturing process adds further ecological strain, making it comparable to other synthetic fibers in terms of impact.
The Complex Story of Viscose
Viscose, though plant-based and renewable, presents its own set of environmental dilemmas. The production process, which transforms cellulose from wood pulp or bamboo into fibers, requires substantial chemical processing. Substances like caustic soda, sulfuric acid, and carbon disulfide are often used, and these chemicals can leach into surrounding air and waterways. This contamination has been linked to health risks such as heart disease, cancer, and skin conditions for both factory workers and nearby residents.
However, advancements in cleaner manufacturing, such as the Lyocell process, are mitigating some of these issues. By utilizing N-Methylmorpholine N-oxide as a solvent, this technique reduces waste and toxicity, making viscose more eco-conscious.
Forestry and Land Use Concerns
Viscose production is also tied to deforestation, as large areas of forests are cleared for pulpwood plantations. This practice results in habitat loss for endangered species and impacts biodiversity. Furthermore, up to 70% of the tree is wasted during the extraction process. Alarmingly, approximately 30% of viscose is sourced from threatened or ancient forests, raising concerns about land grabs and the rights of Indigenous communities. These factors have led to viscose receiving low sustainability ratings, such as ‘D’ and ‘E’ in the Made-By Environmental Benchmark for Fibres.
Positive Shifts in the Industry
Efforts are underway to address these challenges. Initiatives like Canopy are collaborating with brands to source viscose from sustainable forests. In 2014, the organization partnered with Stella McCartney to analyze and promote alternative fibers with reduced ecological footprints.
A Broader Perspective on Sustainability
When compared to alternatives like wool, the environmental trade-offs become even more complex. Wool, while natural, requires livestock farming, which contributes to methane emissions and can degrade landscapes.
One critical aspect of sustainability, often overlooked, is extending a product’s lifecycle. Fast fashion’s demand for quick, low-cost production exacerbates ecological issues tied to viscose and other materials. Long-lasting garments, designed for reuse and repair, offer a more sustainable approach.
Retailers committed to durable, heirloom-quality items can make a positive difference by resisting the disposable fashion trend. Polyviscose, when thoughtfully sourced and manufactured, can be part of this effort to reduce waste and environmental harm.
Is polyviscose better than cotton?
Polyviscose has a sleek and fluid texture that doesn’t match cotton’s superior breathability and moisture-absorbing properties. Cotton, as a fully natural fiber, outperforms polyviscose when it comes to keeping you cool and comfortable in hot conditions.
Is polyviscose good for summer?
Polyviscose is a versatile material that adapts well to different climates. Affordable and durable, it performs admirably in summer by draping elegantly and being lightweight. It serves as a great wool alternative for those who prefer not to use animal-derived materials.
Is polyviscose good for winter?
While viscose can be incorporated into winterwear, its breathable nature and limited ability to retain heat make it better suited for warmer weather. For cold climates, materials with stronger insulation capabilities are more effective.
Is viscose poor quality?
Viscose has a reputation for being less durable than other fabrics. It’s prone to pilling, wear, and shrinkage if not handled carefully. Washing it in hot water or drying it with heat can compromise its quality, so gentle care is crucial for longevity.
Is Polyviscose Good for the Environment?
Polyviscose, being derived partially from plant-based materials and free of animal-derived components, offers notable environmental advantages. However, the question of sustainability requires deeper exploration.
Thanks to its durability, polyviscose garments and products have a longer lifespan, reducing the frequency of replacements and curbing excessive consumption. Additionally, its resistance to shrinking and ease of washing contribute to its extended usability, promoting a more sustainable approach to fabric use.
Recent advancements in viscose production, such as the adoption of the Lyocell method, have improved its environmental profile. This process uses N-Methylmorpholine N-oxide as a solvent, which significantly reduces waste, making it a more eco-conscious choice compared to traditional methods.
Why Buy Polyviscose?
Polyviscose attracts a variety of buyers due to its unique combination of practicality, comfort, and ethical appeal.
- Durability and Affordability:
Many opt for polyviscose because it is tough, cost-efficient, and low-maintenance. It performs exceptionally well in high-use applications such as upholstery, uniforms, children’s clothing, and table linens, all of which benefit from its ability to withstand frequent washing and heavy wear. - A Hypoallergenic Alternative to Wool:
Individuals sensitive to wool often turn to polyviscose as a substitute. With its hypoallergenic properties and texture closely mimicking wool, it’s an excellent option for garments like kilts and skirts that require a soft, luxurious feel without triggering allergies. - Ethical and Vegan-Friendly:
Since polyviscose is free of animal-derived materials, it appeals to vegans and vegetarians seeking a sustainable, cruelty-free alternative to wool.
Is viscose hotter than cotton?
Viscose, like cotton, is known for being absorbent and aiding in heat dissipation. However, viscose is generally lighter and more breathable, making it a better option for those who tend to overheat, especially when used for items like sheets. Cotton’s cooling properties can depend on how it’s woven, but viscose typically offers superior moisture-wicking for a cooler feel.
Is polyester good for summer?
Polyester, made from synthetic fibers, isn’t ideal for hot weather. While it dries quickly and helps wick away moisture, it doesn’t breathe well and can trap heat, making it uncomfortable in warm temperatures. Polyester tends to retain odors, and unless designed with specific ventilation, it should be avoided for summer wear.
Does poly viscose shrink?
Polyviscose, like pure viscose, can shrink when exposed to heat or moisture, especially if washed at high temperatures. To prevent shrinkage, it’s best to follow specific care instructions and avoid washing in hot water or drying in high heat.
What is the best fabric for hot weather?
Fabrics such as cotton, linen, and silk are excellent choices for hot weather. These materials are breathable, lightweight, and moisture-wicking, helping you stay cool and comfortable throughout the summer months.
Does polyviscose stretch?
Polyviscose is not particularly stretchy, as it has a minimal amount of elasticity compared to fabrics like spandex. While it offers some give, its stretchability is limited to around 2% of its original size.
Is viscose better than linen?
Viscose, particularly from bamboo, provides a soft, temperature-regulating feel, while linen is valued for its moisture-wicking properties and texture. Both fabrics are more sustainable alternatives to traditional cotton, and the choice between them depends on personal preference for texture and feel.
What is the warmest fabric?
Fabrics like wool, fleece, and heavy knits are considered the warmest, as they provide better insulation and heat retention, making them ideal for colder weather.
What are the benefits of poly viscose?
Polyviscose blends offer comfort, durability, and ease of care. The fabric is breathable, versatile, and eco-friendly, making it a popular choice in textiles. Its long-lasting nature and resistance to wear make it suitable for both everyday wear and heavier-duty applications.
Is poly viscose shiny?
Polyviscose can have a slight sheen due to the polyester content in the blend, giving it a smooth, lustrous appearance. This quality makes it desirable for certain garments like pleated skirts or dresses that benefit from a bit of shine.
Which is better, cotton or viscose?
Cotton is a natural, breathable fabric that excels in moisture absorption, making it perfect for hot and humid conditions. Viscose, on the other hand, offers a luxurious feel with a smoother texture and is more breathable than many synthetic options, though it may not be as durable as cotton.
Is viscose a luxury?
Viscose, particularly bamboo viscose, is considered more luxurious compared to traditional cotton fabrics due to its softness and silky feel. While not as expensive as silk, viscose provides a similar aesthetic and comfort level, making it a popular choice in affordable luxury fabrics.
Why not wash viscose?
Viscose is delicate and can lose its shape, shrink, or become damaged when washed improperly. It’s best to dry clean or wash viscose garments gently by hand or in cold water, following the care instructions to avoid damaging the fabric.
Can I wear viscose in summer?
Yes, viscose is suitable for summer wear because of its breathable and moisture-wicking properties. It helps keep you cool by absorbing sweat and allowing air to circulate, making it a great option for warm weather clothing.
What are the disadvantages of viscose?
Viscose has some drawbacks, including its tendency to shrink and lose strength when wet. It is also prone to pilling, fading, and damage from sunlight exposure. Careful washing and handling are required to maintain its quality.
Does 100% viscose shrink?
Yes, 100% viscose can shrink by up to 25% when exposed to heat, particularly during washing or drying. To avoid shrinkage, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s care instructions closely and wash at lower temperatures.
What fabrics should you avoid in the summer?
In summer, it’s best to avoid fabrics like silk and satin, which don’t absorb moisture as efficiently as cotton. These materials can leave you feeling hot and sweaty in the heat, making them better suited for cooler evenings or indoor events.
Conclusion
Polyviscose fabric offers a practical and stylish balance between affordability and functionality. It’s well-suited for a variety of uses, from clothing to home furnishings, and serves as a cost-effective alternative to wool. However, its environmental implications and dependence on chemical treatments warrant careful consideration, particularly for those concerned with sustainability and ethical production practices.
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