Ice Fabrics Nylon Spandex Fabric by the Yard - 60 in Wide - 5 Yards

In this review the Ice Fabrics nylon spandex fabric is judged as a versatile, performance-oriented textile for makers who need reliable stretch and a smooth hand. The bottom line: sewists and small-scale apparel makers looking for a breathable, 4-way stretch fabric for swimwear, activewear or dancewear will appreciate the fabric's combination of strength and elasticity, while crafters who need very heavy or fully opaque material may want to consider a heavier alternative. The review focuses on real-world performance, wash behavior, and how the material handles common garment uses.

Key Features

• Smooth nylon-spandex blend: The 82% nylon and 18% spandex construction delivers a soft, smooth surface that feels comfortable next to skin and reduces abrasion under movement.
• 210 GSM tricot weight: A midweight fabric profile that balances drape and support, making it suitable for swimwear and fitted active garments without feeling bulky.
• 4-way stretch: The four-way elasticity allows garments to move with the body, improving fit and range of motion during activities like yoga or swimming.
• Breathable performance: The fabric lets air circulate to help control overheating during workouts while still offering enough structure for legs, tops, and bodysuits.
• Durability and care: Engineered to resist fading and pilling with simple care instructions of hand wash and line-dry, so garments retain shape over time.
• Wide format options: Available in a 58/60 in width and continuous yard lengths up to 5 yards, useful for pattern layouts without seams.

Who It's For

This fabric is best for home sewists, small makers, and costume designers who need a comfortable, stretchy textile for swimwear, bodysuits, dancewear, yoga pants or leggings. The smooth hand and reliable stretch make it a solid choice when close fit and freedom of movement matter.

It is less well suited to projects that require very thick, insulated or highly opaque material (for example heavy winter garments or upholstery). Also, if you require machine washing without any risk of color transfer, test a scrap first since one customer reported potential bleeding during wash.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Excellent fabric quality and smooth feel against skin, making it comfortable for extended wear.
• Vibrant color accuracy that translates well from purchase to finished garments.
• Reliable 4-way stretch and recovery that supports active movement without losing shape.
• Wide 58/60 in width and availability by continuous yard simplifies pattern cutting.

Cons

• Thickness is mixed by users; some may find it a little thin for high-coverage or structured needs.
• There have been isolated reports of fabric staining or color bleeding when washed, so take care with laundering.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Ice Fabrics nylon spandex is a smart buy for sewists and small brands that need a smooth, breathable fabric with dependable 4-way stretch for swimwear and active garments; it offers good value because it balances durability, color, and stretch in a wide 58/60 in format. Buyers should handle washing with some caution and test a scrap for colorfastness if laundering is a concern.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this fabric suitable for swimwear?
Yes. The nylon-spandex blend, 4-way stretch and 210 GSM weight make it suitable for swimsuits and swim-friendly garments when properly lined and finished.

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

Will the fabric hold up for activewear?
For most activewear applications it offers good stretch and recovery, but if you need very thick or highly structured fabric choose a heavier option.