What is viscose?

Hello, dear readers! If you are looking for a fabric that feels pleasant against the skin, drapes beautifully, and looks elegant, you are in the right place. Viscose fabrics are one of the most in-demand choices in the sewing world, and for good reason — they combine comfort, a breathable structure, and visual lightness.

👉 If you already know this is what you're looking for, check out our carefully curated collection here: Viscose fabric. There you'll find fabrics suitable for dresses, blouses, skirts, and other feminine projects.

In this blog post, I'll explain why viscose fabric is so loved in the Latvian sewing community, how best to use it, and how to choose the most suitable option for yourself — so the result is not only beautiful, but also comfortable for everyday wear.

 

WHAT IS VISCOSE?

Viscose fabrics were created in the late 19th century, when the French scientist Hilaire de Chardonnet developed a fiber he called artificial silk. Initially, viscose fibers were used to replace silk fibers, but they also found wide use in textile production.

Viscose fabrics were obtained by converting cellulose fibers into a liquid form. This liquid mass was forced through a nozzle, creating thin threads that were strengthened by drying. These threads were then processed to produce fabric.

Viscose is a very versatile fabric material because it can be processed in different ways to create different types of fabric. For example, viscose fabrics can be flowing and almost sheer, as well as dense and stretchy in knitwear. This means viscose can adapt to different usage needs and clothing designs.

Most of the fabrics on our shelves are woven fabrics made from viscose fiber. See here.

Overall, viscose fabrics created a new material that combines the benefits of natural feel and synthetic technology.

This innovation made it possible to create fabrics with a high level of comfort that are also easily accessible and versatile for fashion and interiors.

Viscose fabrics are materials of natural origin made from cellulose fibers. They are very soft and gentle on the skin. Viscose fabrics are breathable and absorb moisture well, which makes them very comfortable to wear in both warmer and cooler weather.

Below is a video with viscose fabric so you can see its structure better.

VISCOSE PROPERTIES

Viscose fabrics have several properties that make them popular and versatile materials. Here are some of the main features that characterize viscose fabrics:

1. Softness and comfort: Viscose is a very soft and silky fabric material that feels pleasant against the skin. It is especially suitable for those with sensitive or easily irritated skin, as it causes less friction and discomfort.

2. Breathable: Viscose is a highly breathable material that allows air to flow freely through the fabric. This makes it suitable for wearing in warm summer months, providing good air circulation, as well as in other seasons, because it does not trap heat.

3. Excellent moisture absorption: Viscose is a highly absorbent fabric, allowing it to easily soak up moisture from the skin. This makes it comfortable to wear in hot and humid weather, as it helps keep you feeling dry and fresh.

4. Flowing and beautifully draped: Viscose is a flowing fabric with a soft drape that gives it elegance and lightness. This makes it suitable for sewing dresses, skirts, and blouses, as it creates beautiful movement and a delicate appearance.

5. Rich color selection: Viscose absorbs dyes well and reflects them well. This means viscose fabrics are available in a wide range of colors and patterns, allowing you to choose exactly what matches your individual style and design. If you want to dye it yourself, you'll also find  fabric dyes  on our shelves and can experiment by creating your own unique fabric design.

6. Easy care: Viscose is a relatively easy-care fabric. It can often be machine washed, and it will retain its softness and appearance if you follow the proper care instructions.

WHAT CAN YOU SEW FROM VISCOSE FABRICS?

1. Dresses: Viscose fabrics are ideal for sewing dresses. You can choose a flowing floral dress for summer or go for a classic design.

2. Blouses and shirts: Viscose fabrics give you the opportunity to create versatile and light blouse and shirt designs. Play with necklines, finishes, and details to create your own unique style.

3. Skirts and shorts: Fabrics made from viscose are also a great material for sewing airy skirts or shorts. For the beach, choose short shorts, while for everyday wear you can create attractive and comfortable skirts.

4. Beach tunics: Viscose fabrics are water-resistant and dry quickly, which makes them suitable for sewing tunic-ponchos as well.

5. Nightwear-thanks to its breathable properties and soft touch-viscose makes a great nightdress. I've had a nightdress sewn from viscose fabric for 3 years now, and I've especially loved it during hot summer nights.

 

Overall, viscose fabrics combine a natural feel with comfort and wide design possibilities. They can be used for both everyday wear and standout evening wardrobes, offering lightness and a flowing drape.

Right now, my wardrobe includes dresses, skirts, a blouse, and a nightdress sewn from viscose. It seems this fabric will only grow in popularity in my wardrobe.

Check out our wide range of viscose fabrics here and get inspired for your next project!

Stay creative, Sniedze