Can You Dye Rayon

Rayon, also known as viscose, is a regenerated cellulosic fiber mainly produced from wood pulp. Firstly, it was invented as a substitute for silk and also known as artificial silk.

Now, it can also be produced for resembling linen, cotton, or wool. They are mainly used in home furnishing, medical supplies, fashion purpose, diapers, sanitary products, etc. So, if you ask us, can you dye rayon, the answer is yes, and definitely yes.

Now you might also ask, why is rayon called regenerated fiber?

The raw material of rayon, cellulose is obtained from linters (short-fibers) or wood pulp. They are converted into liquid, passed through tiny holes of spinneret, and finally converted in the form of fiber as cellulose. That’s why it is called regenerated fiber.

As we have stated earlier, rayon can be dyed just like the dyeing process of natural fibers.

As rayon is a cellulosic regenerated fiber, all the dyes that work on cotton are applicable on rayon also. Moreover, you’ll achieve more brilliant and deeper shades.

These dyes can used to dye rayon −

For dyeing,

1. You can use Procion MX fiber reactive dyes which will give you best results.
2. Carry your dyeing in a washing machine or bucket.
3. Continuous stirring is necessary during the dyeing.
4. Maintain high liquor ratio.
5. Follow the dyeing procedure of reactive dyes for cotton (according to the reactivity of you dye). If you use other dyes, the procedure is also same as cotton.

A major drawback of rayon is their poor strength in wet conditions. The reason behind ‘Dry-clean only.’ tag for rayon is because they are damaged very readily in wet conditions. The tag also applicable if the dyes used are water-soluble or any water-soluble finishes are applied.

During dyeing of rayon, do machine wash without putting stress to the fiber. Gentle hand wash followed by machine wash is more suitable. But if you want to use a washing machine, use a delicate cycle and avoid washing with heavy garments.

Try to wash rayon with cold water and tumble dry in low temperatures. Beware that using a washing machine may cause several failures sometimes if the rayon fabric has weak spots present.

Dharma Trading Company supplies white rayon fabrics that are ready to dye. Their rayon fabrics are sewn with cotton sewing threads most of the time, and they also absorb the same amount of dye as the fabric.

If you buy rayon from local sources, make sure that they are free from finishes such as water repellent finish, stain-resistant finish, etc.

Final Words

I think we were able to provide you an indepth answer of your query regarding can you dye rayon or not. As long as you stick with the instructed dyes and method, you’ll be all set.

Rayon – Textile Fiber