Ice Fabrics 60 Inch Nylon Spandex Fabric by the Yard - 4-Way Stretch

In this review we look at Ice Fabrics Nylon Spandex Fabric by the Yard, a 58/60in wide, 210 GSM tricot blend designed for swimwear and active garments. The bottom line: this fabric is best for makers who need a smooth, durable, four-way stretch material that holds color and recovers well after movement. It performs particularly well for swimsuits, bodysuits, leggings, and table covers where a soft hand, breathability, and reliable stretch are priorities, though a few users noted mixed opinions on thickness and one reported bleeding in wash.

Key Features

• Smooth nylon spandex: The tricot weave pairs nylon strength with spandex elasticity so the material moves with the body during activity.
• 210 GSM weight: A midweight construction that balances opacity and drape for swimwear and activewear without feeling heavy.
• 4-way stretch: Fabric stretches both crosswise and lengthwise for comfortable range of motion in yoga pants and dancewear.
• Breathable performance: The knit allows air circulation to help reduce overheating and keep the wearer more comfortable during exercise.
• Durable fiber blend: Made from 82% nylon and 18% spandex for colorfastness and resistance to pilling and loss of shape when cared for properly.
• Wide sizes and colors: Sold by the yard in continuous lengths up to 20 yards and offered in many color choices for project flexibility.

Who It's For

This fabric suits home sewists and small-batch makers who produce swimwear, bodysuits, leggings, and performance garments that require reliable stretch, a soft hand, and a neat finish. It is also a practical choice for craft and event needs like fitted tablecloths or seat covers where a smooth appearance and stretch to fit matters.

It is less suitable for projects that need heavy structural support or thick insulation; customers who prefer a very thick, sculpting fabric or who require industrial washproofing for repeated machine laundering may want to consider a heavier technical textile.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Soft, smooth feel that is pleasant against skin and suitable for close-fitting garments.
• Excellent color accuracy and vibrant hues that hold up when cared for gently.
• Good stretch and recovery from the 4-way spandex content, supporting freedom of movement.
• Lightweight yet durable blend that resists pilling and fading under normal use.

Cons

• Thickness is mixed by users; some find it lighter than expected for certain swim or performance needs.
• One reported instance of fabric staining or bleeding during wash suggests cautious pre-testing with dyes and detergents.

Specifications

Brand	Ice Fabrics
Composition	82% nylon, 18% spandex
Weight	210 GSM tricot
Width	58/60 in
Stretch	4-way stretch
Care	Hand wash, line-dry out of direct sunlight

Our Verdict

Ice Fabrics Nylon Spandex offers a balanced, midweight tricot that is ideal for makers of swimwear, dancewear, and activewear who need smooth feel, breathability, and reliable stretch. It represents good value for projects requiring fit and movement, though buyers should test for thickness preference and colorfastness before large-scale production.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this fabric suitable for swimsuits?
Yes; the 4-way stretch and nylon/spandex blend make it appropriate for swimsuits and bodysuits when constructed and lined correctly.

How should I care for this fabric?
Hand wash with normal tap water and line-dry out of direct sunlight to preserve elasticity and color.

Will the color fade or pill?
The fabric is designed to resist fading and pilling, though one user reported bleeding during wash, so pre-washing a swatch is recommended.