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

In this review the Ice Fabrics nylon spandex fabric is judged as a versatile, four-way stretch textile best suited to makers of swimwear, activewear, and lightweight garment projects. The single biggest reason to buy is its combination of 210 GSM tricot weight with an 82% nylon / 18% spandex blend that delivers smooth hand feel and reliable stretch for fitted pieces; buyers who need a breathable, soft fabric for swimsuits, bodysuits, or leggings will find it appealing.

Key Features

• Smooth nylon spandex fabric: The tricot construction gives a slick, comfortable surface that reduces friction against skin when used for swim and dance garments.
• 4-way stretch: Provides flexible movement and recovery, allowing patterns to follow the body for snug, performance-oriented fits.
• Breathable performance: Designed to let air circulate and help prevent overheating during workouts or prolonged wear.
• Durable blend: The 82% nylon and 18% spandex ratio produces a lightweight fabric that resists pilling and maintains shape when cared for gently.
• Water-resistant behavior: The fabric's construction and fiber content make it suitable for swimwear and wet environments where quick drying and performance matter.
• Wide width and yard options: At approximately 58/60 in wide and sold by continuous yards, it supports larger pattern layouts and varied project lengths.

Who It's For

This fabric is ideal for sewists and small apparel makers who need a smooth, stretchy textile for swimwear, bodysuits, dancewear, leggings, or fitted athletic garments. Its breathable feel and four-way stretch suit active designs where flexibility and a sleek finish are important.

It is less appropriate for heavy-duty upholstery or projects that require a very thick, structured textile; some buyers may find the 210 GSM weight a bit light for lined garments or for uses where opacity and heavy durability are priorities. Also, anyone unwilling to hand wash and line-dry should consider alternate fabrics.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• High-quality hand feel and smooth surface that works well next-to-skin.
• Reliable 4-way stretch and recovery for fitted swim and active pieces.
• Breathable and lightweight, which helps reduce overheating during activity.
• Available in wide widths and continuous yards to accommodate larger projects.

Cons

• Some customers report mixed thickness impressions and one account of color bleeding during washing, so careful laundering is needed.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Ice Fabrics nylon spandex is a practical choice for makers seeking a smooth, breathable fabric with dependable four-way stretch for swimsuits and fitted athletic wear. It offers good value when you need wide-width yards and a comfortable next-to-skin hand, though delicate laundering is recommended to avoid color issues and maintain longevity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this fabric suitable for swimwear?
Yes, the 82/18 nylon-spandex blend and water-resistant behavior make it suitable for swimsuits and similar wet-use garments.

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

Is it opaque enough for leggings?
Opacity depends on color and stretch; many users find it fine for snug leggings, but very light colors or heavy stretching may reduce opacity.