Nylon Spandex Fabric by the Yard - 60 in Wide Navy - 4-Way Stretch

In this review the writer tested the Ice Fabrics nylon spandex material to see who it serves best and why. The bottom line: this 60 in wide, 210 GSM tricot is ideal for makers who need a smooth, breathable, four-way stretch fabric that keeps shape for swimwear, activewear and dance garments. The review focuses on feel, durability and practical washing notes, and explains why hobby sewists and small-batch apparel makers will appreciate the balance of stretch and recovery in this navy nylon spandex.

Key Features

• 4-way stretch: The tricot construction offers elastic recovery in all directions so garments move with the body during activity rather than resisting it.
• Smooth hand feel: The fabric is soft and slick to the touch, which makes it comfortable against skin for swimsuits and bodysuits.
• Breathable: Designed to allow air circulation during workouts so wearers stay cooler and less prone to overheating.
• Durable blend: The 82% nylon and 18% spandex mix gives a lightweight but sturdy fabric that resists fading and pilling when cared for gently.
• Wide width and yardage: At about 58/60 in wide and sold by continuous yards up to large cuts, it suits larger pattern pieces and table linens without many seams.
• Easy care: The material is meant to be hand washed and line-dried out of direct sun to preserve color and shape.

Who It's For

This fabric is best for home sewists, independent designers and small production runs making swimwear, activewear, leggings, dancewear or form-fitting bodysuits where a smooth, four-way stretch and quick recovery are essential. The 60 in width also makes it convenient for tablecloths or seat covers when a stretchy, waterproof surface is desired.

It may be less suitable for projects that require heavy, structured fabric or large-scale industrial production where thicker textiles are preferred. Customers who need an ultra-thick or fully opaque swimsuit lining should consider a heavier textile option.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Excellent fabric quality and smooth feel, making garments comfortable next to skin.
• True four-way stretch and good recovery, ideal for active movement.
• Breathable and lightweight, which helps regulate temperature during exercise.
• Generous width and continuous yard options reduce seam work for large projects.

Cons

• Thickness is mixed in customer feedback; some may find it thinner than expected for heavy-duty uses.
• One report of color bleeding during wash suggests following the hand-wash instruction carefully to avoid staining.

Specifications

Material	82% nylon, 18% spandex
Weight	Approximately 210 GSM (tricot)
Width	About 58/60 in
Stretch	4-way stretch with good recovery
Care	Hand wash with normal tap water and line-dry out of direct sunlight
Typical uses	Swimwear, activewear, yoga pants, leggings, tablecloths, seat covers

Our Verdict

The Nylon Spandex fabric is a solid choice for makers who need a smooth, breathable four-way stretch fabric that holds shape and feels comfortable against skin. For swimwear and close-fit activewear it offers good value thanks to its width and durable nylon-spandex blend, but careful hand washing is advised to prevent any potential color bleeding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this fabric suitable for swimwear?
Yes. The 82/18 nylon-spandex tricot with 4-way stretch and lightweight construction is appropriate for swimsuits and bodysuits when lined as needed.

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

Will the color bleed in wash?
There is at least one report of fabric staining, so wash carefully and consider testing a small swatch first.