Few fabric labels cause as much confusion as rayon and viscose. You will see the same soft, drapey fabric called rayon in one shop and viscose in another, and it is easy to assume they are two different things. They are not, quite. This guide explains what rayon and viscose actually are, how they relate, where any real differences lie, and how to choose and care for them.

The short answer: viscose is a type of rayon. Rayon is the family, and viscose is its most common member, which is why the two names are so often used for the same fabric.

What is rayon?

Rayon is a semi-synthetic fibre, which means it sits between natural and synthetic. It is made from regenerated cellulose, usually drawn from wood pulp, that is chemically processed and spun into fibre. Because it starts from a natural raw material but is manufactured into thread, rayon is neither a pure natural fibre like cotton nor a fully synthetic one like polyester. Rayon is really a category rather than a single fabric, and it includes several types made by different processes.

What is viscose?

Viscose is the most common type of rayon, named after the "viscose process" used to make it. When most people say rayon, viscose is usually what they mean. The reason you see both words is partly regional: viscose is the more common term in Australia, the UK and Europe, while rayon is used more in the United States. For the standard fabric, rayon and viscose describe the same thing.

The other types of rayon

Where genuine differences appear is between the types of rayon, not between rayon and viscose:

• Viscose rayon: the standard, soft and fluid with beautiful drape, and the most affordable.
• Modal: a stronger, smoother rayon that holds up better to washing and keeps its shape well.
• Lyocell: made in a more closed-loop, eco-friendlier process, and the most durable of the three, including when wet.

So if you are comparing options, the useful question is not "rayon or viscose" but "which type of rayon", since that is where strength, durability and sustainability actually differ.

How rayon and viscose behave

Standard rayon and viscose share the same strengths, which is exactly why they are so widely used:

• Soft and smooth: a silk-like feel against the skin at a far more accessible price.
• Excellent drape: it falls in soft, fluid lines, ideal for anything meant to flow.
• Breathable and absorbent: comfortable to wear in warm weather.
• Takes colour well: prints and dyes read rich and vivid.

They share the same care needs, too. Rayon and viscose are weaker when wet, can shrink, and tend to wrinkle, so they reward gentle handling. None of that is a dealbreaker, it just means treating the fabric kindly.

What to make with rayon and viscose

That soft drape makes rayon and viscose a natural fit for flowing, comfortable garments: summer dresses, blouses, wide-leg trousers, skirts and kimono-style layers. They also make excellent linings and blend beautifully with other fibres to add softness and movement. If you love the fluid feel but want a sheerer look, our guide to chiffon is worth a read, and for a crisper natural fibre, linen is a good counterpoint.

How to care for rayon and viscose

Because rayon and viscose lose strength when wet, hand washing or a gentle cold machine cycle is safest, then dry flat away from direct heat rather than wringing or tumble drying. Many garments are labelled dry clean only, which is worth respecting. Press with a cool iron, ideally while slightly damp, and always follow the care label on your specific fabric.

Ready to sew with it? Browse our rayon and viscose range to see what is in stock.

Rayon vs viscose FAQs