Nylon Spandex Fabric 80% Nylon 20% Spandex - 4-Way Stretch Swimwear

In this review of the Nylon Spandex Fabric from Barcelonetta, the bottom line is simple: this material is best for makers who need a flexible, form-fitting textile for swimwear, activewear, dance, or yoga garments. The single biggest reason to buy is its blend of 80% nylon and 20% spandex, which reliably delivers four-way stretch and a smooth, comfortable hand that holds up to oils, lotions, and perspiration. Practical crafters and small-batch apparel makers will appreciate that pieces are sold individually and arrive as usable lengths for immediate cutting and sewing.

Key Features

• Fabric content: The 80% nylon, 20% spandex blend offers a consistent balance of stretch and recovery for garments that must return to shape after movement.
• 4-way stretch: Four-way stretch gives freedom of motion for active and dancewear while keeping seams and hems stable.
• Durability and resistance: The nylon blend resists oils, sunscreen, and body perspiration, helping swim and active garments last longer under regular use.
• Sold by piece: Each quantity is an individual piece, which makes it easy to plan projects without receiving one long continuous roll.
• Care instructions: Hand wash cold or machine gentle and air dry or tumble low to protect elasticity and extend fabric life.
• Comfort: The fabric is soft and smooth to the touch, providing a comfortable next-to-skin feel for close-fitting designs.

Who It's For

This fabric suits hobby sewists, independent designers, and small-batch makers who build swimwear, leggings, leotards, or performance garments that demand stretch and shape retention. Its resistance to oils and lotions makes it especially useful for swimwear designers and instructors who test prototypes in water or under heavy perspiration.

Those who should look elsewhere include sewists who need heavy-weight, insulating fabrics or textiles with a matte, non-shiny finish; customers sensitive to surface shine or expecting a thick, structured cloth may prefer alternatives like heavyweight knits or coated technical fabrics.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Excellent stretch and recovery from the 80/20 nylon-spandex ratio for snug, flexible garments.
• Good durability and resistance to oils, lotions, and perspiration, extending garment life in active use.
• Soft, smooth texture and appreciable weight that many users say feels premium against the skin.
• Sold in individual pieces which makes project planning straightforward for small quantities.

Cons

• The fabric has a noticeable shine that some customers find too glossy for certain styles.
• Color accuracy and perceived thickness have mixed feedback, so swatching is recommended before large orders.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Nylon Spandex Fabric is a practical, value-minded choice for anyone sewing swimwear or performance apparel who needs reliable four-way stretch and resistance to sunscreen and sweat. It is especially good for small projects because pieces are sold individually; check a swatch for finish and color before committing to large runs if you are sensitive to shine or exact hue.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this fabric suitable for swimwear?
Yes, the nylon and spandex blend resists oils and perspiration and holds shape well, making it suitable for swimwear.

How is the fabric sold and delivered?
It is sold by individual pieces, so each quantity you choose is shipped as a separate length rather than one continuous roll.

What care is recommended to maintain elasticity?
Hand wash cold or use a gentle machine cycle, avoid bleach and fabric softener, and air dry or tumble low to protect elasticity.