Viscose in the old days and how it has changed

Short answer: Viscose in the old days was a new fabric developed to resemble silk, and it has changed a great deal since then. Today viscose comes in many forms, including from bamboo. Here is a short history of the fabric and of what has changed.

How viscose began in the old days

Viscose was invented in the late 1800s as a way of making a silk-like fibre from cellulose from plants. The fibre was at first called artificial silk, because it was meant to resemble silk but be cheaper. In the early 1900s production began on a larger scale, and the fabric became common in clothing.

How viscose was used

In its first period viscose was used in stockings, underwear and lining fabrics. The fabric became popular because it was soft and draped nicely. It also had its weaknesses, for example that it could become weak when wet. That is part of the picture of viscose in the old days that many people still have.

What has changed

Production has developed for more than a hundred years, and makers have improved both processes and fabric. How it looks at an individual maker cannot be read from the word viscose, and that is why the description matters. Look at bamboo clothing for men to see how the fabric is used today.

From wood to bamboo

Viscose was first made from cellulose from wood, but other plants have been added. Bamboo is one of them, and then the fabric is called bamboo viscose. The process is basically the same, but the raw material is different. The fibre that comes out looks the same wherever the cellulose comes from.

The feel then and now

Older viscose garments could feel a little thin and delicate, especially after washing. Modern garments are often knitted in firmer fabric and in blends made for everyday use. The feel depends on fibre, yarn and knit. So it is hard to draw conclusions about viscose in the old days without looking at the garment.

Washing viscose today

Always follow the care label. A gentle cycle, a sensible amount of detergent and air drying help the fabric keep its shape. High heat can pull the fabric together. Look at socks for men and other basics, where the care instructions are usually easy to follow in everyday life.

What to think about when you buy

Read the description and look at fibre, knit and weight. A thin, loosely knitted fabric behaves differently from a denser one. Also look at long sleeve models if you want to compare different weights. Compare with garments you already own and know work.

Summary on viscose then and now

Viscose has a long history, and the fabric has changed along the way. Once it was a silk-like alternative that could be fragile, and today it comes in many variants. Always read the description and the care label so you know what you are getting. If you want to know more, you can always ask.

Frequently asked questions

What was viscose in the old days

Viscose was a new fabric invented in the late 1800s to resemble silk. It was called artificial silk and used in stockings and underwear, among other things.

Is viscose the same fabric today

The basic idea is the same, but production and fabrics have developed. How a garment feels and lasts depends on fibre, yarn, knit and care.

Is bamboo viscose a kind of viscose

Yes, bamboo viscose is viscose where the raw material is cellulose from bamboo. The process is basically the same as for other viscose.