What is Cupro?

Cupro (Cuprammonium Rayon) is a "regenerated cellulose" fiber. It sits between natural and synthetic. It is not grown like a plant, but it is not a plastic like polyester. It is made from Cotton Linter—the fuzzy, ultra-fine fibers that stick to the cotton seed after the main cotton is ginned. Historically, this "linter" was a waste product dumped by the cotton industry.

1. The "Closed-Loop" Production

Cupro is produced by dissolving the cotton linter in a solution and spinning it into fiber.

  • Zero Waste: Modern Cupro production (specifically by Asahi Kasei in Japan) operates on a "closed-loop" system. This means the copper and ammonia used in the process are recovered and reused rather than discharged. They are not dumped into the environment.
  • Upcycling: It transforms a pre-consumer waste product (cotton linter) into a luxury textile.

2. The Feel

Cupro is often compared to silk for its hand feel. We call it cupro, because it is a regenerated cellulose fibre and not a protein fibre.

  • Smoothness: The fibers are perfectly round and smooth (unlike cotton, which is twisted). This gives it a slippery, cool-to-the-touch texture that glides over the skin.
  • Drape: It has a fluid, heavy drape similar to sandwashed silk, making it ideal for dresses and lining.

3. Moisture Control

Cupro is highly breathable and moisture-wicking. It releases moisture into the air rapidly, reducing the "stickiness" often felt with synthetic linings. It is also anti-static, meaning it won't cling to your legs in winter.

4. Biodegradability

Because the base material is plant cellulose, the fibre biodegrades. Bemberg cupro filament is certified biodegradable in soil and marine environments by TÜV Austria, and that certificate covers the fibre rather than a finished garment with its dyes and trims. Unlike polyester or nylon, it will break down naturally in soil, leaving no microplastics behind.

Conclusion

Cupro represents the future of circular fashion: Taking a waste product and using technology to transform it into a luxury material that rivals silk, all while maintaining a biodegradable footprint.