Lyocell fabric is a rising star in the world of textiles, adored by fashion brands, designers, and eco-conscious consumers alike. Known for its silky smooth texture, breathability, and sustainable production, lyocell has become a go-to fabric for everything from high-end fashion to everyday essentials. Whether you're crafting a new wardrobe piece or sourcing materials for a fashion startup brand, understanding lyocell fabric can help you make the most of its unique qualities.
What Is Lyocell Fabric?
Lyocell is a semi-synthetic fabric made from wood pulp, typically sourced from eucalyptus, oak, or birch trees. It belongs to the rayon family but stands out for its eco-friendly production process and exceptional softness. Developed in the 1970s and commercialized under the brand name Tencel®, lyocell has gained popularity for its luxurious feel, durability, and sustainability.
Unlike traditional rayon, lyocell is produced using a closed-loop process, which recycles water and solvents, minimizing environmental impact. Lyocell uses non-toxic NMMO instead of the highly toxic carbon disulfide used in viscose.
How Is Lyocell Fabric Made?
The production of lyocell fabric involves several eco-conscious steps:
- Sourcing Wood Pulp: Trees like eucalyptus are sustainably harvested and chipped into wood pulp.
- Dissolving Pulp: The pulp is dissolved in a non-toxic NMMO solvent to create a cellulose solution.
- Fiber Spinning: The solution is pushed through fine holes to form fibers, which are then washed and dried.
- Weaving or Knitting: The fibers are spun into yarn and woven or knitted into fabric.
The closed-loop process ensures that up to 99% of the solvent is recycled, making lyocell one of the most environmentally friendly fabrics available.
Comparing Lyocell to Other Popular Fabrics: Cotton, Modal, Viscose, and Polyester
Cotton vs. Lyocell
Cotton is a natural fiber known for its breathability and durability, but it requires significant water and pesticides to grow. Lyocell, on the other hand, is softer, more moisture-wicking, and produced with a smaller environmental footprint. While cotton is ideal for structured garments, lyocell excels in creating lightweight, flowy pieces with a luxurious drape.
Modal vs. Lyocell
Both modal and lyocell are derived from wood pulp, but lyocell is often considered more sustainable due to its closed-loop production process. Modal is incredibly soft and silky, while lyocell offers a slightly crisper texture with better moisture-wicking properties. Lyocell is also more durable and resistant to pilling, making it a better choice for long-lasting garments.
Viscose vs. Lyocell
Viscose and lyocell are both part of the rayon family, but they differ in production and performance. Viscose has a softer, more delicate drape, but it is less durable and prone to pilling. Lyocell, on the other hand, is stronger, more breathable, and retains its shape better over time. Additionally, lyocell’s eco-friendly production process gives it an edge over viscose, which often involves harsher chemicals.
Polyester vs. Lyocell
Polyester is a synthetic fabric known for its durability and wrinkle resistance, but it lacks breathability and is derived from petroleum. Lyocell, being plant-based, is biodegradable, breathable, and softer on the skin. While polyester is often cheaper, lyocell provides a more sustainable and luxurious alternative for eco-conscious consumers.
Benefits of Lyocell Fabric
Lyocell fabric offers a host of advantages that make it a standout choice for clothing and home textiles:
- Silky Softness: Feels luxurious against the skin, similar to silk or cashmere.
- Breathable: Regulates temperature, keeping you cool in summer and warm in winter.
- Moisture-Wicking: Absorbs moisture efficiently, making it ideal for activewear and undergarments.
- Eco-Friendly: Produced using sustainable methods and biodegradable materials.
- Durable: More resistant to pilling compare to other natural and semi-synthetic fibers.
- Hypoallergenic: Gentle on sensitive skin, making it suitable for all skin types.
Is Lyocell Stretchy?
Lyocell itself is not inherently stretchy, as it is a woven fabric. However, when blended with stretchy fibers like spandex or elastane, it gains elasticity, making it ideal for form-fitting garments like leggings, activewear, and fitted dresses. Always check the fiber content if stretch is a requirement for your project.
Is Lyocell Good for Summer?
Absolutely! Lyocell is an excellent choice for summer clothing due to its breathability and moisture-wicking properties. It helps regulate body temperature, keeping you cool and comfortable even in hot weather. Its lightweight and smooth texture make it perfect for flowy dresses, blouses, and summer linens.
Disadvantages of Lyocell Fabric
While lyocell has many benefits, it’s important to consider a few drawbacks:
- Cost: Lyocell is generally more expensive than cotton or polyester due to its sustainable production process.
- Care Requirements: It requires gentle washing and air drying to maintain its quality, which may not suit those looking for low-maintenance fabrics.
What Is Lyocell Fabric Used For?
Lyocell’s versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of applications, whilst lightweight lyocell tends to be better for linings, casual dresses and tops, and mediumweight lyocell is perfect for skirts, trousers, dresses and jumpsuits.
- Tops and Dresses: Its smooth drape and breathability make it perfect for elegant blouses and flowy dresses.
- Activewear: Moisture-wicking properties ensure comfort during workouts.
- Undergarments: Soft and hypoallergenic, ideal for bras, underwear, and sleepwear.
- Jeans and Pants: Blended with other fibers, lyocell adds softness and stretch to denim and trousers.
How to Care for Lyocell Fabric
Caring for lyocell fabric is straightforward, ensuring it stays soft and vibrant for years:
- Washing: Use cold or warm water on a gentle cycle with mild detergent.
- Drying: Air dry or tumble dry on low heat to prevent shrinkage.
- Ironing: Use a low heat setting if needed, though lyocell is naturally wrinkle-resistant.
- Storage: Keep in a cool, dry place to maintain its quality.
Where to Buy Lyocell Fabric & Buying Tips
For Sewists:
Look for fabric suppliers offering lyocell by the yard in various weights and blends. Check the fiber content (e.g., lyocell-cotton or lyocell-spandex blends) to ensure it meets your project’s needs. Request swatches to test the fabric’s texture, drape, and opacity before making a purchase.
For Clothing Brands:
Partner with a wholesale fabric supplier that specializes in sustainable textiles. Inquire about bulk discounts and reordering capabilities to maintain consistency in your collections. Verify the supplier’s commitment to eco-friendly practices, as lyocell’s sustainability is a key selling point and check if the supplier carries any sustainable certifications such as OEKO-TEX.
Why Choose Yardblox Fabrics for Lyocell Fabric?
At Yardblox Fabrics, we’re dedicated to providing high-quality, sustainable fabrics for fashion brands, designers and sewists worldwide. Our curated selection of lyocell fabrics includes a variety of colors, blends, and weights to suit every creative vision. Whether you’re purchasing by the yard or ordering wholesale, we offer:
- Low Minimum Orders to support small and emerging brands.
- Free Swatches to help you find the perfect match.
- Exclusive Discounts for wholesale customers.
- Custom Fabric Sourcing for fashion brands and startups
With our commitment to quality and sustainability, we’re here to help you elevate your designs with luxurious, eco-friendly lyocell fabric. Explore our range today and discover why lyocell is a favorite among fashion-forward creators.
