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

In this review of the nylon spandex fabric by the yard, the bottom line is simple: sewists and makers who need a smooth, four-way stretch fabric for swimwear, activewear or costume work will find this a reliable choice. The reviewer found the fabric moves with the body, breathes well during activity, and has a soft hand that suits garments worn next to skin. Those seeking a heavy-duty canvas or very thick upholstery cloth should look elsewhere, but for stretchy swim and yoga pieces this fabric delivers the main benefits expected.

Key Features

• Smooth nylon spandex: The tricot construction gives a soft, smooth surface that feels pleasant against skin for swimsuits and bodysuits.
• 4-way stretch: The blend allows stretch both crosswise and lengthwise so garments move with the wearer during exercise or dance.
• Breathable: The fabric lets air circulate to help manage heat and reduce excessive sweating in active uses.
• Durable blend: Made from an 82% nylon and 18% spandex mix that resists fading, pilling, and losing shape when cared for by hand wash and line-dry.
• Wide width and length options: Available in a 58/60in width and continuous yard cuts up to 5 yards, making it easier to cut larger patterns with fewer seams.
• Lightweight and quick drying: The 210 GSM weight is substantial enough for swimwear yet light enough to dry quickly after use.

Who It's For

This fabric is well suited to hobby sewists and small designers making swimwear, activewear, leggings, dancewear, and fitted bodysuits who want a smooth, stretchy tricot that behaves predictably in garments. Its breathability and 4-way stretch make it a practical choice for yoga or swim garments that need to follow the body without restricting movement.

It is less appropriate for people who need thick, heavy-duty upholstery fabric or non-stretch table coverings; although it is suggested for tablecloths in the product line, users who require stiff or heavy textiles should choose a different material. Also, anyone who prefers machine washing for convenience should be aware the manufacturer recommends hand washing and line drying to preserve performance.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Smooth, soft hand that is comfortable against skin for swimsuits and bodysuits.
• Reliable 4-way stretch that supports active movement without sagging.
• Durable nylon/spandex blend resists fading and pilling when cared for correctly.
• Large 58/60in width and up to 5-yard continuous cuts reduce seam work for wide projects.

Cons

• Thickness gets mixed feedback; some users may find it thinner than expected for certain applications.
• One reported instance of color bleeding during wash suggests extra care is needed for dyefastness on darker shades.

Specifications

Material	82% nylon, 18% spandex
Weight	210 GSM tricot
Stretch	4-way stretch
Width	58/60in
Available lengths	Continuous yards from 1 to 5 yards
Care	Hand wash, line-dry out of direct sunlight
Color	Navy

Our Verdict

For makers of swimwear, activewear and fitted garments this navy nylon spandex is a practical, value-oriented fabric: it combines a smooth hand, reliable 4-way stretch and breathable performance in a wide 58/60in width that simplifies larger cuts. With reasonable care it stays colorfast and dimensionally stable, making it a good pick for those who prioritize comfort and stretch over heavy-duty thickness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this fabric suitable for swimwear?
Yes. The 82% nylon and 18% spandex tricot with 4-way stretch is intended for swimwear and will perform well when hand washed and line-dried.

How wide is a yard of this fabric?
The fabric is supplied in a 58/60in width, which helps reduce seams for wider patterns.

Will the color bleed in the wash?
Most users report good color accuracy, but there is at least one report of bleeding, so wash dark colors separately and follow hand-wash care instructions.