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

In this review the focus is on a versatile 58/60 in wide nylon spandex tricot sold by the yard that targets makers of swimwear, activewear and dance apparel. The bottom line: this 210 GSM fabric combines the strength of nylon with the elasticity of spandex to deliver dependable 4-way stretch and a smooth hand, making it especially useful for swimsuits, bodysuits and leggings where recovery and a sleek feel matter. It is breathable and lightweight, so it suits warm-weather or high-movement projects where cooling and stretch are priorities.

Key Features

• Smooth nylon spandex fabric: a tricot knit that feels slick and drapes well, ideal for close-fitting garments that need a neat finish.
• 4-way stretch: offers reliable elasticity in both directions so garments move with the body during yoga, swimming or dance.
• 210 GSM weight: balanced thickness for a lightweight but substantial feel that performs well as swimwear and activewear material.
• 82% nylon, 18% spandex: a blend that delivers durability and recovery while remaining soft against skin for prolonged wear.
• Breathable and quick to dry: allows air circulation to help prevent overheating during workouts or in water activities.
• Easy care: the fabric resists fading and pilling when hand washed and line-dried out of direct sun.

Who It's For

This fabric is best for sewists and small brands making swimwear, bodysuits, leggings, dancewear and activewear who need durable stretch and a smooth finish. Its combination of breathability, lightweight hand and recovery is suited to projects where fit and movement matter, such as yoga pants, sports bras and costume pieces.

It is less appropriate for users who need heavy-duty upholstery textile or very thick neoprene-like materials; a few customers found the thickness mixed for their needs, so if you need extra opacity or insulation you should test a swatch first.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Excellent fabric quality and color accuracy reported by multiple users, producing vibrant swimsuits and bodysuits.
• Very smooth feel on the skin and lightweight comfort for active use.
• Strong 4-way stretch with good recovery suitable for form-fitting garments.
• Resistant to fading and pilling when cared for by hand washing and line drying.

Cons

• Thickness received mixed feedback; some sewists may find it too thin for structured garments.
• At least one customer reported fabric staining or bleeding during washing, so pre-wash tests are advisable.

Specifications

Fiber content	82% nylon, 18% spandex
Weight	210 GSM tricot
Width	58/60 in (approx)
Stretch	4-way stretch
Common uses	Swimwear, activewear, yoga pants, dancewear, tablecloths
Care	Hand wash with tap water, line-dry out of direct sunlight

Our Verdict

The nylon spandex tricot is a strong choice for makers who prioritize stretch, a smooth hand and reliable recovery for swimwear and activewear projects. It offers good value for form-fitting garments and costumes, though anyone needing heavier or highly opaque material should sample a swatch first. Overall it is a practical, breathable fabric that performs well when cared for properly.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

Will the color bleed in the wash?
Some customers reported bleeding during washing, so pre-wash a swatch separately to confirm colorfastness before cutting your project.