If you are new to textile sourcing, you will quickly meet the abbreviation T/R yarn — also written as PV yarn or polyester viscose yarn. This article explains exactly what it is, how it is made, and why it is one of the most widely used blended yarns in apparel.
What does T/R yarn mean?
In the textile trade, T stands for polyester (Terylene) and R for viscose (Rayon). T/R yarn is therefore a polyester-viscose blended yarn. The two fibres are blended at the spinning stage so every metre of yarn carries the same ratio.
The most common blends are:
- T/R 65/35 — 65% polyester, 35% viscose. The balanced all-rounder for suiting, workwear and knitwear.
- T/R 80/20 — 80% polyester, 20% viscose. Higher strength at lower cost, popular for workwear.
- Custom ratios — blends like 70/30 are developed for specific programs.
How is polyester viscose yarn made?
Polyester staple fibre and viscose staple fibre are weighed, blended and carded together, then drawn and ring-spun into yarn. The result combines the best of both fibres in one strand.
Why blend polyester and viscose?
| Fibre | Contribution |
|---|---|
| Polyester (T) | Strength, abrasion resistance, easy care, crease resistance, low cost |
| Viscose (R) | Softness, drape, moisture absorption, rich dye uptake |
Together they produce a yarn that is stronger than pure viscose, softer than pure polyester and more economical than natural-fibre blends with similar performance.
T/R yarn counts and forms
- Counts: Ne 10s to Ne 40s, single or plied (e.g. 20s/2, 32s/2)
- Forms: cone, hank or cheese; cone weight typically 1.5-2.5 kg
- Finishes: raw white, waxed for knitting, or package-dyed
What is T/R yarn used for?
- Knitting: single jersey, rib, interlock, fleece — t-shirts, loungewear, sportswear
- Weaving: suiting, workwear, uniforms, shirting — plain, twill and satin constructions
- Accessories: socks, gloves, scarves, woven trims
T/R yarn vs cotton vs pure polyester
Compared with cotton, T/R costs less, wrinkles less and dyes more vividly, while giving up some natural breathability. Compared with pure polyester, T/R is softer, drapes better and absorbs moisture — a better base for garments worn close to the skin.
Frequently asked questions
Is T/R yarn the same as PV yarn?
Yes. T/R (polyester-viscose) and PV (polyester-viscose) describe the same blended yarn.
Does T/R yarn shrink?
Polyester has low shrinkage; properly processed T/R yarn and fabric are dimensionally stable.
Can T/R yarn be recycled?
Yes — recycled T/R yarn (rPET + viscose) is available, using recycled polyester made from PET bottles.
Where can I buy T/R yarn wholesale?
We produce T/R yarn at our mill in Hebei, China, and export worldwide. Send your count, blend and quantity for a quotation.
Need T/R yarn or polyester viscose fabric? Send your specification — blend, count, weight and quantity — and get a quotation within one working day. Request a Quote