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

In this review of the Nylon Spandex Fabric by the Yard the bottom line is simple: sew-enthusiasts and makers who need a smooth, breathable 4-way stretch fabric for swimwear, activewear or dancewear will appreciate its consistent feel and reliable recovery. The reviewer found the material best for garments that require stretch and body-hugging shapes because the 82% nylon and 18% spandex blend delivers elasticity without feeling heavy. While not every project will need this weight and finish, the fabric's softness and color accuracy make it a practical pick for many sewing projects.

Key Features

• Smooth nylon spandex fabric: The tricot knit gives a soft, smooth surface that feels comfortable against the skin for garments like swimsuits and bodysuits.
• 4-way stretch: Stretch in both directions allows patterns to move with the wearer and improves fit for form-fitting activewear and dancewear.
• Breathable construction: Air circulates through the knit so the fabric stays cooler during workouts or layered wear, helping reduce overheating.
• Durable composition: Made from 82% nylon and 18% spandex, the fabric resists fading and pilling and keeps its shape when washed gently and line-dried.
• Wide width and yardage options: At about 58/60in wide and sold in continuous yards, it suits larger cut pieces like leggings or tablecloths without many seams.
• Lightweight 210 GSM tricot: The medium-light weight balances coverage and drape for swimwear and yoga pants without feeling bulky.

Who It's For

This fabric is aimed at home sewers and small-batch makers creating swimwear, dancewear, leggings, or form-fitting activewear who need reliable stretch, soft hand, and a smooth finish. It also suits craft uses such as tablecloths or seat covers where a stretchy, easy-to-drape textile is preferred.

It is less ideal for makers who require heavyweight support fabrics, structured garments, or very thick athletic compression materials; some customers noted the weight feels lighter than heavy-duty compression fabrics and one reported color bleeding with washing, so delicate-care projects are best.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Soft, smooth hand that feels comfortable next to skin for swimsuits and bodysuits.
• Reliable 4-way stretch and recovery for close-fitting garments and movement-intensive activities.
• Breathable knit construction keeps wearers cooler during workouts or performance situations.
• Available in wide widths and continuous yard lengths, reducing seam work on large pieces.

Cons

• Some users found the fabric lighter than expected for very structured or heavily supportive garments.
• There is at least one report of fabric staining or bleeding during washing, so colorfastness may vary and gentle care is required.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Nylon Spandex Fabric by the Yard is a sensible choice for sewists who need a smooth, breathable, and stretchy fabric for swimwear, leggings, or dancewear; it offers good value for form-fitting projects because of its comfortable hand and dependable stretch. Buyers should follow gentle washing instructions and test a swatch for colorfastness if color bleeding is a concern.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this fabric suitable for swimsuits?
Yes, the 82% nylon/18% spandex blend and 4-way stretch make it well suited to swimsuits and other close-fitting swim garments.

How should I wash this fabric?
Hand wash with normal tap water and line-dry out of direct sunlight to preserve color and elasticity.

Will it work for leggings or yoga pants?
Yes, it is breathable and stretchy enough for leggings and yoga pants, though those wanting heavy compression may prefer a thicker option.