Just like modal- another form of rayon and a fabric we regularly use at Lavender Hill - lyocell has long been considered as a more sustainable choice than the likes of nylon, polyester and even cotton. Made from wood cellulose or pulp, its soft-to-the-touch finish, eco credibilities and durability make it a firm favourite with both brands and customers. 

Another similarity between modal and lyocell is how it’s made. As with the former, lyocell begins with wood; predominantly from fast-growing trees such as birch, eucalyptus and oak. The wood is harvested and ground into a pulp and mixed with a chemical which leaves a sticky liquid. This is then filtered and pumped through spinnerets - thimble-shaped devices used to form fabric strands - resulting in long, thin fibres. These fibres are then washed, dried and separated before being cut into the desired length. 

The lyocell Lavender Hill uses - TENCEL™Lyocell from Austrian company Lenzing - is harvested from certified and controlled wood sources.

All of the wood Lenzing uses in its production of TENCEL™ Lyocell is sourced from sustainably managed forests.

Using what is known as a ‘closed loop production process’, Lenzing is able to reuse more than 99% of the water and solvent used in the creation of TENCEL™ Lyocell fibres. This has even won the company the Technology Award for Sustainable Development in the European Business Awards for the Environment.

Unlike some fibres which are produced in far-flung places, TENCEL™ Lyocell is made in Austria. As all of our products are made in Europe and the UK, this results in a smaller carbon footprint.