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

In this review the Ice Fabrics Nylon Spandex fabric is judged for makers who need a reliable, stretchy material for swimwear, activewear and crafts; the single biggest reason to consider it is the combination of smooth hand and dependable 4-way stretch that moves with the body. The fabric's 210 GSM tricot construction and an 82% nylon / 18% spandex blend deliver a lightweight, resilient textile that is useful for swimsuits, bodysuits and leggings, while remaining breathable enough for active use.

Key Features

• 4-way stretch: The tricot construction provides elasticity in both directions so garments move with the wearer during exercise and swim sessions.
• Smooth hand: The surface feels soft against skin, making it suited for close-fitting pieces like swimsuits and bodysuits.
• Breathable: Designed to allow air circulation during workouts, it helps reduce overheating and feels cooler while active.
• Durable blend: The 82% nylon and 18% spandex mix delivers long-lasting performance that resists fading and pilling when cared for correctly.
• Water friendly: The fabric is described as waterproof in construction and performs well for swim and water-based garments.
• Wide width and lengths: Offered at about 58/60 in width and continuous yardage up to 20 yards, it suits both small and larger projects.

Who It's For

This fabric is well suited for sewing enthusiasts and small designers making swimwear, dancewear, activewear, yoga pants or leggings who need a smooth, stretchy textile that holds shape and gives a professional finish. It also works for craft uses such as tablecloths and seat covers where a bit of stretch and a smooth appearance are desirable.

Buyers who need a very heavy-duty or opaque fabric for structured garments or high-abrasion industrial uses should look elsewhere; some users find the thickness varies and one report noted color bleeding during washing, so projects requiring extreme colorfastness or very thick material may not be ideal.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• High perceived fabric quality with a smooth feel ideal for close-to-skin garments.
• Reliable stretchiness in both directions which eases pattern fitting and movement.
• Breathable design that helps prevent overheating during activity.
• Available in wide continuous widths and yard lengths for larger projects.

Cons

• Thickness is mixed across users; some may find it lighter than expected for certain applications.
• There are occasional reports of fabric staining or color bleeding during wash if not laundered carefully.

Specifications

Our Verdict

Ice Fabrics Nylon Spandex is a solid, versatile choice for sewers making swimwear, bodysuits and activewear who value a smooth hand and dependable 4-way stretch. It represents good value for projects that need a lightweight, durable fabric with breathable properties, though anyone needing very heavy-weight or guaranteed colorfastness should test a sample first.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this fabric suitable for swimsuits?
Yes, the 82/18 nylon-spandex blend and 4-way stretch make it suitable for swimsuits and bodysuits.

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

Will it work for leggings and yoga pants?
Yes, it works well for leggings and yoga pants where a smooth, stretchy, breathable fabric is desired, though check thickness for your pattern.