In the world of textiles and crafting, there is an array of yarns available to artists and hobbyists alike. One such versatile and eco-friendly fiber that has gained popularity in recent years is viscose yarn.
What is Viscose Yarn?
Viscose yarn is a type of fibre derived from natural materials. The primary source of viscose yarn is cellulose obtained from wood pulp, quite often bamboo. This cellulose is then chemically treated to create a soft, smooth and lustrous fibre, making viscose yarn a popular choice for various textile applications.
Sustainability of Viscose Yarn:
One of the key advantages of viscose yarn is its eco-friendly nature. Being derived from a renewable resource such as wood pulp and bamboo, it is considered a more sustainable alternative to synthetic fibres derived from petroleum-based products.
Additionally, the production process of viscose yarn involves the use of fewer harmful chemicals compared to synthetic fibres, further reducing its environmental impact. However, it is essential to note that certain viscose production methods can still have environmental concerns, such as the use of harmful chemicals in some manufacturing processes.
Versatility in Crafting:
Viscose yarn's versatility makes it a cherished material for knitting, crochet and weaving enthusiasts. Its smooth texture and lustrous sheen lend elegance to finished projects, making it ideal for creating luxurious and lightweight garments such as shawls, scarves and summer tops. Furthermore, its ability to absorb dyes beautifully allows for vibrant and rich color options, making it perfect for creative and colorful projects.
Benefits of Viscose Yarn:
Softness: Viscose yarn boasts a soft and smooth feel, making it comfortable to wear against the skin and pleasant to handle during crafting.
Drapability: Its natural drape ensures that finished items flow gracefully, lending an elegant touch to clothing and accessories.
Breathability: Viscose yarn is highly breathable, making it an excellent choice for warm-weather garments that allow air circulation.
Absorbency: This fibre has excellent moisture-wicking properties, keeping the wearer cool and dry in humid conditions.
Affordability: Viscose yarn is often more affordable than luxury natural fibers like silk, making it accessible to a wide range of crafters.
Cons of Viscose Yarn:
Durability: While viscose yarn is soft and beautiful, it may lack the durability and strength of other fibers, making it susceptible to wear and tear over time.
Stretchiness: Viscose yarn has a tendency to stretch, which can affect the shape and fit of certain projects, necessitating proper care during crafting.
Shrinkage: When exposed to water, viscose yarn may shrink, which requires special attention during washing and blocking.
Blending Viscose Yarn for Textural Beauty:
To enhance the texture and performance of viscose yarn, it can be blended with other fibers. Popular choices for blending include:
Cotton: Blending viscose with cotton results in a breathable and comfortable yarn suitable for warm-weather garments.
Wool: Combining viscose with wool creates a yarn with added warmth, making it perfect for cozy winter wearables. It also adds a beautiful sheen to wool to give your make a luscious shininess without compromising on using natural fibres.
Silk: A blend of viscose and silk yields a luxurious and glossy yarn that drapes beautifully, ideal for elegant and delicate projects.
Viscose yarn's journey from natural cellulose to a soft, lustrous fibre offers crafters an eco-friendly and versatile option for knitting, crochet and weaving. With its sustainability, softness and drape, it has become a beloved choice for creating elegant and comfortable garments and accessories. While it does have its drawbacks, blending viscose yarn with other fibres can help overcome some of its limitations, offering endless possibilities for beautiful textures and stunning creations.
Incorporating viscose yarn into your crafting projects not only brings joy to your creative pursuits but also supports a more sustainable and eco-friendly textile industry. Whether you're an experienced crafter or a beginner looking to explore new materials, give viscose yarn a try and unlock the beauty of this remarkable fibre!
Shop our beautiful range of viscose yarns and viscose blends today!