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

In this review the reviewer looks closely at the Ice Fabrics nylon spandex fabric sold by the yard and concludes it is a practical choice for makers who need smooth, stretchy fabric for activewear or swimwear. The single biggest reason to consider this material is its blend of 82% nylon and 18% spandex, which gives the cloth a true 4-way stretch and a soft hand that moves with the body during exercise. Overall it reads as a versatile option for sewing projects where stretch, color vibrancy and breathability matter.

Key Features

• Material blend: The 82% nylon and 18% spandex mix delivers elasticity and recovery so garments keep their shape through movement.
• Fabric weight: At about 210 GSM tricot construction the fabric balances body and drape for swimwear and leggings without being overly heavy.
• Breathability: The knit structure allows air to circulate, helping keep wearers comfortable during workouts or in swim settings.
• Durability: The fabric is described as resistant to fading and pilling, meaning finished garments should last through repeated wear and gentle care.
• Width and yardage: Sold in a 58/60 in width and continuous yard options up to 5 yards, it suits larger projects like tablecloths or multiple garment pieces.

Who It's For

This fabric is best for sewists and small-scale makers who build swimwear, dancewear, activewear, yoga pants or leggings that need reliable stretch and a smooth surface. The smooth finish and color vibrancy make it especially useful when appearance and fit matter, such as competitive swimwear or fitted bodysuits.

It may be less suited to projects that require heavy structure or thick insulation, since some customers noted the thickness can feel lighter than expected. Also, those needing absolutely no color transfer should test a scrap first because one report mentioned potential bleeding during washing.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Excellent stretch and recovery for form-fitting garments and active movement.
• Soft, smooth feel that is comfortable next to the skin and suitable for swimwear linings.
• Vibrant color accuracy and a consistent finish that makes bright reds pop in finished pieces.

Cons

• Thickness receives mixed opinions; some users find it lighter than expected for certain applications.
• At least one customer reported fabric staining or bleeding in wash tests, so prewashing or color testing is advised.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Ice Fabrics nylon spandex by the yard is a solid value for sewists who need a smooth, breathable fabric with dependable stretch and color vibrancy. It is especially recommended for swim and active garments where a light, resilient knit is required; cautious prewashing is wise to check for any color transfer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this fabric suitable for swimsuits?
Yes, the nylon/spandex blend and 4-way stretch make it appropriate for swimsuits and swim linings.

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

Will the color run in the wash?
Most customers report good color accuracy, but one report noted bleeding; test a scrap or prewash if colorfastness is critical.