Raw materials

Natural fibers are our working material, cultural creation is our objective

We take natural raw materials and turn them into cultural creations. The materials we work with are textile fibres that are drawn from nature and are recyclable. Natural raw materials create a favourable living atmosphere, provide warmth and comfort, are long-lived, age in an visually pleasing manner and create an atmosphere of confidence through their unspoiled and natural qualities. Natural fibres are there-fore a healthy answer to the widespread alienation and high pace of modern-day life.

Ruckstuhl processes and converts these precious raw materials ecologically and sensibly, showing full consideration for the various natural cycles. The life-cycle of our products is there-fore conceived and in keeping with the possibilities open to us, on the basis of an overall approach which fully respects the evolutionary processes of nature. The natural materials used by Ruckstuhl are subject to the very highest quality standards, which only a handful of suppliers with whom Ruckstuhl has long-term partnerships can meet.

Coir

The coir fibers come from the protective coat that surrounds the coconut. This material has unbelievable properties. The machine spun, long pile yarn is not only exceptionally resistant to wear and weather, but also antibacterial and self-cleaning as well. It’s not surprising that it is a popular choice for entrance areas, as it is also impervious to water.

Sisal

The sisal fibers come from the leaf of the sisal agave, which originally comes from Mexico. For reasons of quality, Ruckstuhl has been using sisal obtained from Madagascar, Tanzania or Kenya. The long, robust fibers can easily be dyed (unlike coir), are equally good at absorbing humidity and have a wonderful shine to them. Ruckstuhl’s sisal carpets are heavy – a square meter weighs at least 2 kilos – so they lie particularly well on the floor.

Pure new wool

Wool is the most important textile fiber derived from animals. It has been used by human beings since time immemorial, first as felt, and later in the form of spun yarns. Wool is an all-round multi talent. It is a kind of natural air-conditioning system, capable of absorbing 35 per cent of atmospheric humidity and releasing it again. And it is self-regenerating.

Hair yarn

Hair yarn is a sustainable and natural raw material that is especially tear resistant and hardwearing. Ruckstuhl exclusively uses goat and horsehair due to the fact that it’s easy to clean and long lasting. The combination of hair yarn and other fibers reinforces the fabric.

Fique

Fique is practically the national fiber of Colombia. Used in former times for the production of coffee bags and agricultural yarns, this natural resource was discovered by Ruckstuhl by a miraculous coincidence, when partnership with a knitting enterprise in the Colombian heartland first gave a hint of what could be achieved using this durable and versatile fiber.

Linen

Linen fibers are derived from the stem of the linen plant. Linen materials are used above all for washables and for clothing. It is only rarely used in the form of carpet fibers but Linen is an exclusive material with a distinctive shine. Ruckstuhl’s linen yarn comes from both Europe and Egypt.

Viscose

Viscose fiber is made of cellulose. Wood shavings are first boiled up with chemicals to dissolve out the cellulose. Then the cellulose is processed together with water, caustic soda lye and carbon disulphide, giving rise to a viscose liquid, which is solidified into viscose yarn by spinnerets.

Wood

Wood used by Ruckstuhl is a renewable raw material that grows in Europe. It is easy to maintain and capable of withstanding rough wear. Birch, oak, cherry and walnut woods are used.