Inside Soorty’s Dope-Dyed TENCEL™ Modal Developments
Dope dyeing and denim are increasingly going hand-in-hand as manufacturers adopt our colored TENCEL™ Modal fibers. Instead of adding dye at the yarn or fabric stage, these fibers have the color infused into them during the production process. Pigments are added to the modal liquid solution before fibers are spun, saving on water and energy compared to conventional dyeing.
Lenzing developed and launched TENCEL™ Modal with Indigo Color technology as a solution for blue jeans, and mills have also used our TENCEL™ Modal Black for black denim. Pakistan-based denim mill Soorty has been using our dope-dyed TENCEL™ Modal assortment for some time, and recently the company brought the black and indigo fibers together to create deeper blue tones. This product development innovation provides yet another example of what is possible with these materials.
Here, Noman Nadir Khan, vice president research and product development – denim at Soorty, discusses the company’s developments with our spun-dyed TENCEL™ Modal.
Carved in Blue: Why did you choose to attempt mixing the black and indigo TENCEL™ Modal? What was the idea behind this?
Noman: The original concept was to minimize the purple cast observed in the indigo modal and enhance the depth of the color. This combination helped us to get a more refined and vibrant appearance for the final product.
Carved in Blue: Could you describe the result you got from this combination?
Noman: Our development has successfully yielded a richer hue with a prominent reduction in the unwanted purple undertones by some customers, which addressed the initial concerns associated with the indigo modal.
Carved in Blue: What type of applications has Soorty come up with so far?
Noman: We have tried different compositions, particularly focusing on achieving optimal outcomes in terms of shade through different blend compositions. Through extensive experimentation, we have identified that the blend of black and indigo exhibits exceptional results in terms of depth and shade appearance. This specific combination imparts a pleasing cool bluish cast to the fabric.
Presently, we offer a high-stretch article that aligns with the requirements of a specific brand. However, we are flexible in our approach, and a wide variety of constructions can be accommodated based on customer demand. This ensures that our offerings are tailored to meet the unique preferences and specifications of each client.
Carved in Blue: What feedback have you received from the brands?
Noman: We have effectively presented our products to different customers, and the response has been extremely positive. Notably, a small trial order is on the verge of being replaced by a prominent and well-known brand. This not only reflects the favorable impression our offerings have left but also signifies the potential for significant business expansion in the near future.
Carved in Blue: Are there other color options of this fabric next to the modal indigo? Is there any other intention of developing new colors of modal fiber-containing fabrics with the same technique?
Noman: In our previous developments with modal colors, we explored various options such as red, sand, navy and a 100 percent indigo modal. However, aside from the black modal, none of these hues were selected for production. Interestingly, the 100 percent black modal has consistently stood out as our best seller over the years, gaining popularity and trust from our customers.
Now, we are excited to share that the new combination we’ve developed is showing promising signs. The unique qualities of this blend, coupled with the success of the black modal, make us optimistic about its potential. We believe that this new offering has the ingredients for success, and we look forward to its realization in the market. As we continue to innovate and respond to market preferences, we are confident that this selected product will make a meaningful impact, much like our constant best seller, the 100 percent black modal.
Carved in Blue: What’s the final benefit of this product for the consumer?
Noman: Beyond its attractive color, the fabric stands out for its exceptional comfort, high absorbency and superior moisture management. Additionally, it exhibits outstanding dry rubbing resistance and maintains its color well even after 50 home laundries. Notably, this fabric aligns with environmental sustainability practices as it doesn’t undergo dyeing and eliminates the need for softeners during washing. For those who prefer a denim look without significant fade out, this product offers the perfect solution. It allows individuals to enjoy the desired worn-in aesthetic without compromising on color vibrancy and comfort. Its crocking results are good. Dry requirement is 3 and it is coming out 4.5, and the wet requirement is 2 and it is coming 3, so we can for sure call this product as a non-fading, solid denim.