In the textile industry, the success of a fabric is measured by the technical values it offers beyond its design. Especially for high-volume fashion brands and garment giants, a fabric must meet technical standards suitable for mass production. Knitted viscose fabric, with its fluid drape and natural luster, is one of the materials where these standards are most scrutinized. At Baykar Kumaş, we meticulously analyze the technical limits and performance parameters of viscose in our knitted fabric production.
The Strategic Position of Knitted Viscose in the Textile Industry
Although viscose has a natural origin as a regenerated cellulose fiber, it is a material whose technical properties can be optimized through engineering interventions during the production process. Combining the breathability of cotton with the aesthetics of silk, this texture holds strategic importance, particularly in women’s tops, lingerie, and activewear collections. In the B2B world, viscose is the primary raw material for high-value-added products due to its high dye affinity and silky hand-feel.
Molecular Structure and Character in Knitted Form
While the molecular structure of viscose is cellulose-based, similar to cotton, its fiber length and smoothness are more controlled. When transformed into a knitted fabric, this smoothness creates a flawless glow and slipperiness on the surface. When the stitch structure is adjusted to support the natural drape of viscose, the result is a texture that gracefully contours the body without causing discomfort.
Technical Parameter 1: Weight (GSM) and Usage Areas
The most fundamental unit of measurement for determining the thickness and substance of a fabric is GSM (Grams per Square Meter). The choice of weight in viscose fabrics directly impacts the quality of the final product.
- 130 – 160 GSM (Lightweight): Generally seen in single jersey knits. Ideal for summer blouses, lightweight T-shirts, and underwear. It offers high breathability, though opacity (sheerness) control is critical.
- 170 – 200 GSM (Medium Weight): The most preferred range for collections. It provides both drape and minimizes the risk of transparency. It is the standard for dresses and casual tops.
- 210 GSM and Above (Heavyweight): Mostly found in interlock or thick rib structures. It exhibits a substantial stance for winter viscose dresses, heavy draped trousers, and jackets.
Technical Parameter 2: Elasticity and Dimensional Stability Standards
Viscose fiber is inherently flexible, but its recovery capability is more limited compared to cotton. This is where technical expertise comes in:
- Pure Viscose vs. Lycra Viscose: Pure viscose is drapey but carries the risk of “bagging” (at knees/elbows) or losing its shape. Therefore, in professional production, an elastane (Lycra) supplement between 3% and 8% is added to increase the dimensional stability of the fabric.
- Recovery Test: This analyzes how quickly the fabric returns to its original form after being stretched. High-quality knitted viscose must maintain its form despite high elasticity.
- Knitting Direction: Needle settings in knitting machines must balance the fabric’s flexibility not only widthwise but also lengthwise.
Technical Parameter 3: Durability, Strength, and Pilling Tests
The most critical technical feature of viscose is the difference between its wet and dry strength. Viscose fiber can lose 30% to 50% of its strength when wet.
- Strength Tests: The fabric’s resistance to breaking and tearing is measured. Finishing processes in production must be planned to protect the fibers’ sensitivity.
- Martindale Abrasion and Pilling: This tests whether the fibers on the fabric surface form “fuzz balls” due to friction. In wholesale fabric procurement, a pilling result of grade 4-5 (high resistance) should be sought. At Baykar Kumaş, we minimize the risk of pilling by optimizing the yarn twist count.
Dyeing and Color Fastness Standards
Viscose is one of the fibers that traps dye most effectively, giving the fabric vibrant and saturated colors. However, color fastness testing is indispensable for B2B standards:
- Washing Fastness: Ensuring the color does not bleed onto other garments or fade during domestic washing.
- Perspiration and Light Fastness: Especially for summer products, sunlight and perspiration must not alter the color tone.
Shrinkage and Spirality Allowances in Production Planning
The biggest technical risks in knitted fabrics are spirality (twisting) and shrinkage. The flexible nature of viscose can lead to high shrinkage rates if the correct tension is not set during production.
- Tolerance: In professional production, a +/- 5% shrinkage tolerance is considered standard for viscose.
- The Sanforizing Factor: Sanforizing and steaming processes performed to fix dimensional stability prevent surprises after the cutting stage.
xcellence in Technical Standards with Baykar Kumaş
In the textile sector, trust is built through the continuity of technical data. At Baykar Kumaş, we apply world-class laboratory tests to every batch of knitted viscose fabric we produce.
With our fabrics featuring the correct weight, high strength, and stable elasticity values, we elevate your brand’s perception of quality to the highest level. We stand by you as a technical solution partner, not just a supplier, for your wholesale fabric needs. You can contact us to eliminate risks in your collections and achieve the perfect hand-feel.
