Rayon is one of those fabrics that you can find almost everywhere. It is a highly successful material after all. Used by tailors and designers Rayon is a top choice for most. However, the majority of people are not capable of giving a clear definition of it.
This is more than normal since its main element of creation and the feel it gives is unique. If by chance you find yourself part of this majority do not worry.
I am eager to provide you with an in-depth explanation of “What Is Rayon Fabric?”. As a result, by the end of this article, you will be able to provide a precise definition for Rayon with all the necessary knowledge.
Key Takeaways
- Rayon is an artificial fabric made from wood and plant cellulose.
- The main purpose of Rayon’s creation was to imitate the qualities of silk. A purpose that was achieved.
- Softness, shine, smoothness, breathability, being lightweight, and maintaining color are all traits that Rayon is known for.
- Rayon finds usage in a lot of clothing departments as well as home designs.
- Regarding environmental safety Rayon is extremely friendly.
- The main drawback Rayon has is its tiresome aftercare procedures.
What Is Rayon Fabric?
The fabric that we are discussing, Rayon, is a man-made material first discovered in the 19th century. The purpose of its discovery was to imitate silk so precisely that people would not be able to tell the difference. Indeed, they did succeed with this, as a result, we now have Rayon.
Now the question is how was this achieved? What is Rayon Fabric at its core? Well, you might be surprised to learn that Rayon is made from natural reworked cellulose found in plants and trees. Usually, eucalyptus trees or bamboo fibers are the main components of Rayon. By using some chemical and spinning techniques the result, in the end, is a soft silk-like fabric that we call Rayon.
Rayon has found use in different types of industries and people are still finding new ways to utilize its traits. By using the thread at its maximum capacity variations of the fabric were made possible. Rayon is the sole cause of the creation of viscose, lyocell, and modal. These three widely used materials would not exist without Rayon. The luxurious qualities they possess are all thanks to Rayon.
So, as you can see Rayon can be considered a remarkable addition to the industry of fabrics. Opening new opportunities for all. However, fawning over Rayon is not what we are here for no matter how admirable it is. Explaining the qualities, usage, consequences on the environment, and potential drawbacks of rayon fabric is necessary to understand it fully.
Also read whether rayon fabric wrinkles.
Rayon’s Qualities
The traits that Rayon has are extremely well-loved by tailors and customers alike. This of course is for solid reasons. Rayon gives the owner a lavish for an exceptionally inexpensive cost.
These qualities have earned Rayon the title “artificial silk”. The softness has enabled it to give a very comfortable feel. When you add shine to this it elevates the fabric even more. Rayon does not stop there though. Being smooth and lightweight at the same time makes it an ideal clothing choice for almost any occasion. To aid the activity department Rayon is tremendously breathable as well.
With all these qualities combined Rayon wins the consumer’s heart. The feel and the look it can give you are unmatchable. Based on these qualities it seems obvious why Rayon is prized.
The use of Rayon
This artificial fabric is so widely used that you can find a percentage of it almost everywhere. Used as pure Rayon or as a blend it is utilized in the wardrobe department as well as in the house division.
Clothing wise Rayon finds use everywhere. It is the first choice of many when customers are looking for an extravagant look at a low cost. Rayon has more than its luxury side though, it offers comfort which makes it adored by athletes. Being lightweight and breathable users that love the outdoors love Rayon as well. If neither of these scenarios applies, the softness of Rayon is used in everyday clothing. Bottom line is that Rayon thrives in the garment section, and it will continue to do so since it has great qualities.
As mentioned, Rayon finds use in the house too. By this, I mean upholstery, bedroom items, house accessories, and so on. Anywhere where softness, shine, drape, and smoothness are needed designers pick Rayon. It is a huge bonus also that this fabric maintains color very well. Meaning that it is perfect for any creative mind that wants to dye it after some time.
Rayon’s Environmental Consequences
An obvious important topic when discussing a fabric is the impact it has on the environment. This issue is quite significant when you want to explain a specific material, in this case, Rayon.
Thankfully though Rayon gives no consequences to the environment. It is one of the most biodegradable fibers. Taking only two weeks to deteriorate in nature and using natural resources to be produced Rayon does not harm the world. So, rest assured that Rayon will pass this test with flying colors.
Also read whether rayon is stretchy.
Rayon’s Downside
No fabric can be perfect. This is the case with Rayon as well. While it does not have drastic drawbacks one annoying feature does exist about it. The aftercare process of it.
Rayon is known to be a very difficult material to maintain after purchase. The beauty it has does not come without pain, I guess. The pain is sensitivity towards any heat leading to tiresome washing and drying steps. If you avoid any of these steps your garment will be sadly shrunken.
This shrinking that can happen is reversible but the process to reverse the aftermath is very long and annoys most users. As a result, Rayon suffers a severe drawback, but this is what gives the fabric its unique characteristics.
Also read a great comparison of rayon and spandex.
Final Words
Reaching the end of the article, I anticipate that you have a full understanding of what makes rayon the unique fabric that it is. With the information I have provided you will be able to answer the question “What Is Rayon Fabric?” without a doubt in mind. I hope you too will now see the greatness of Rayon as a material!
I graduated from London College of Fashion, and I’ve been working for a Fashion Design company for 10 years. My other hobbies are going to the gym and reading.