Viscose, sometimes marketed as "bamboo silk" or "art silk," is a semi-synthetic fiber made by processing plant cellulose into a fine, lustrous filament. It mimics the sheen of real silk at a fraction of the cost, which is why it is often used the same way — as a highlight fiber blended with wool.
Why it matters to a buyer
Viscose gives a silk-like visual effect at a wool-adjacent price point, which makes it popular for trend-led and mid-market collections. It is less durable than true silk and more prone to crushing or watermarking, so it is worth confirming care instructions with your supplier before specifying it for high-traffic programs.