Elevating wood pulp based textile fibers to the next level - following the basic principle of viscose - introduced a number of valuable newcomers in the textile field. Read everything you always wanted to know about modal, lyocell/Tencel and cupro
Modal is crafted from wood pulp, however solely beech wood harvested from FSC-certified forests. Another sustainable bonus: modal’s dyeing process is executed with fewer chemicals compared to viscose and even cotton. The main (consumer) differences with viscose are in fact purely improvements: besides stronger and more durable, modal is resistant to higher temperatures as well.
Modal is…
- Breathable
- Moist absorbing
- Hypoallergenetic, soft to the skin
- Supple
- Resistant to higher temperatures
- Stronger than viscose
- Less crease sensitive than viscose
- Fully recyclable & biodegradable
Lyocell/Tencel™ is made from eucalyptus wood pulp. Lyocell is the fiber’s official name, while Tencel® is a brand name by Lenzing - the manufacturer of Viscose EcoVero, among others. During the production process, the chemicals used are less harmful to the environment, plus: they can be fully filtered out so the water can be re-used reused over and over again in a closed water recirculation system.
Lyocell/Tencel™ is…
- Breathable
- Moist absorbing
- Hypoallergenetic, anti bacterial
- Supple
- Resistant to higher temperatures
- Stronger than viscose
- Less crease sensitive than viscose
- Fully recyclable & biodegradable
Cupro is crafted from cotton plant residues and bamboo pulp. As the chic sister of modal and lyocell/Tencel™, cupro is distinguished by its silky sheen and unique characteristic handfeel, reminiscent of velvet or suede.
Cupro is…
- Breathable
- Moist absorbing
- Hypoallergenetic, anti static
- Ultra supple
- Washable at 30˚C max
- More stain sensitive than viscose
- Less crease sensitive than viscose
- Fully recyclable & biodegradable
BLENDS WITH MODAL, LYOCELL/TENCEL™ & CUPRO
Regardless the excellent characteristics of 100% modal, lyocell/Tencel™ and cupro, mixed blends are equally popular in fashion. In order to further optimize certain benefits, to alter the overall look & feel, to make lightweight fabrics stronger or to keep coarse knits light in weight. Overview of frequently used blends:
- Blend with polyester – improving crease-resistance, adding slight stretchability.
- Blend with linen - pairing the best of both fibers in look & feel. Linnen adds tactility and a signature slubby texture.
- Blend with cotton – fuller handfeel, more casual in look & feel.
- Blend with elasthane – mainly executed in jerseys, adding stretch, improving shape retention.
MODAL, LYOCELL/TENCEL™ & CUPRO – NATURALLY MANMADE
Modal, lyocell/Tencel™ and cupro fibers are spun into yarn, yarn is woven into fabric or knitted into garments. Each type of fabric and each type of knit brings its own character. Fine or coarse, smooth or textured, matte or shiny, plain or printed, embroidered... it's all about the right look, as fashion and style are constantly in motion. This is why a growing number of items in the Josephine & Co webshop come with a click & learn link that takes you directly to a text explaining the ins & outs of fabrics and knits. We love to see you confidently and well-informed enjoying your ultimate fashion find or timeless new forever piece by Josephine & Co.
JOSEPHINE & CO ♥ MODAL, LYOCELL/TENCEL™ & CUPRO