Rayon, Modal, & Viscose Yarn

Rayon yarn, modal yarn, and viscose yarn are all made from regenerated cellulose fiber, which is why shoppers often search for them together. Each has a slightly different hand and best use, so it helps to know what sets them apart before choosing one for your next project.

How Rayon, Modal, and Viscose Differ

Rayon, once called "art silk," is prized for its silky touch, vibrant color, and easy drape. Viscose is produced through a similar process and shares that same lustrous, silken feel while taking dye exceptionally well. Modal is comparable to mercerized cotton, with a smooth, soft hand and strong moisture absorbency, which makes modal-blend yarns a nice choice for lightweight garments or anything worn close to the skin.

Choosing the Right Yarn for Your Project

Because these fibers drape beautifully, they shine in garments, shawls, and accessories where movement and shine matter more than stitch definition. Blended yarns like Valley Yarns 5/2 Bamboo or Valley Yarns Rayon Chenille combine cellulose fibers with other materials for added structure, while a cotton-viscose blend can balance drape with durability. Weavers often reach for these yarns too, since rayon and viscose fibers take dye well and reflect light along the warp or weft.

Care Tips

Always check the care instructions on the label before washing, since blends behave differently depending on their other fiber content. When in doubt, hand washing and laying flat to dry is a safe starting point for most rayon, modal, or viscose yarns.

FAQ

Is viscose yarn the same as rayon yarn? They're produced through similar processes and share many qualities, including a silky feel and vibrant color uptake.

What projects work best with modal yarn? Modal's softness and absorbency suit garments, baby items, and anything meant to feel gentle against skin.

Can I substitute rayon yarn in a cotton pattern? You can, but expect more drape and sheen, so swatch first to check gauge and drape before committing to a project.