Forest fibers
Knock on wood
Cellulosic fibers represent barely 5% of the fibers used in the textile industry today, compared to 69% for synthetic fibers, 24% for cotton, and just under 2% for wool.
They are referred to as artificial fibers not because they are synthetic, but because they are produced from a natural raw material that undergoes chemical transformation: wood.
Spruce and beech are the most commonly used species, though other plants such as bamboo may also be employed. Viscose, lyocell, modal, and cupro are the best known cellulosic fibers. Among them, Tencel® is a registered trademark of lyocell developed by the Austrian company Lenzing.
Viscose virtues
Tree-mendously soft
Renewable and biodegradable by nature, viscose also displays properties that make it particularly relevant for technical garments and performance clothing.
Highly breathable. The fiber structure allows continuous air circulation, helping the body regulate heat and humidity during activity.
Excellent moisture absorption. Viscose efficiently draws moisture away from the skin and promotes fast evaporation.
Soft and comfortable. Its fine fibers create a smooth, fluid fabric with a natural, skin friendly feel.
Effective temperature regulation. Breathability combined with moisture management supports stable body temperature.
Machine washable. Unlike conventional viscose, our fabric maintains its qualities through machine washing, eliminating the need for dry cleaning. An industry first.
From Sweden to Italy
Pulp non-fiction
Our viscose follows a strictly controlled supply chain, from forest to finished fabric.
We use spruce and Scots pine sourced from sustainably managed Swedish forests, certified by the Forest Stewardship Council and Canopy Planet. These international NGOs promote responsible ecological, social, and economic forest management.
The wood is transformed into cellulose on site in central Sweden, then sent to Germany for viscose fiber production. All chemicals used in the process are treated to prevent air and water pollution. The resulting yarn is certified as a responsible fiber by Fairtrade International.
The yarn is then woven in northern Italy by a historic mill founded in 1815. Today, it stands at the forefront of environmental and CO2 standards, and recently equipped its facilities with 3,700 m² of solar panels.
NO SMOOTH CRIMINAL
Cellulosic fibers are sometimes criticized because their manufacturing process involves potentially hazardous chemicals, including caustic soda, carbon disulfide, and sulfuric acid. Without strict control and proper treatment, these substances can be highly harmful to both the environment and human health.
In 2017, an investigation by the Changing Markets Foundation exposed severe practices in parts of India, where untreated wastewater was discharged directly into rivers. The consequences were significant: groundwater pollution, ecosystem destruction, agricultural land contamination, and long term health issues for local communities.
To eliminate these risks, we manufacture all our viscose exclusively in Europe, under the world’s most stringent environmental regulations. This ensures rigorous oversight at every stage of production, from forest to final garment.