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

In this review the reviewer looks at a 60in wide red nylon spandex fabric sold by the yard and finds it best for makers who need a smooth, highly stretchy material for swimwear and active garments. The bottom line: this 210 GSM tricot blend of 82% nylon and 18% spandex delivers reliable 4-way stretch with a soft hand and breathable performance, making it a solid choice for anyone sewing swimsuits, dancewear, or leggings who wants a vibrant color and durable recovery.

Key Features

• Smooth nylon spandex: The tricot finish gives a sleek feel that sits comfortably against skin, ideal for garments worn close to the body.
• 4-way stretch: Fabric stretches both crosswise and lengthwise so patterns for swimwear and activewear move with the wearer rather than restrict them.
• 82/18 nylon to spandex ratio: This fiber mix balances elasticity and strength so pieces resist sagging while remaining flexible during activity.
• Breathable construction: The knit allows airflow to help reduce overheating and maintain comfort during workouts or long wear.
• Colorfast and durable: The fabric is described as lightweight and long lasting, with care instructions recommending hand wash and line-dry to preserve color and shape.
• Wide width and yardage options: Offered at about 58/60in wide and sold in continuous cuts up to 20 yards, it suits larger projects and commercial needs.

Who It's For

This fabric is best for home sewists and small studios making swimwear, bodysuits, dancewear, leggings, yoga pants, and other close-fit active garments that need strong recovery and smooth hand feel. The bright red color and stretch properties also make it useful for decorative covers or tablecloths where a stretchy, washable textile is helpful.

It is not the first choice for heavy-duty upholstery or projects that require thick, structured or non-stretch textiles; a heavier woven or coated fabric would be better where thickness and abrasion resistance are primary concerns.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Excellent stretchiness and recovery for form-fitting garments.
• Soft, smooth surface that feels comfortable against skin.
• Breathable and lightweight for active use and swimwear.
• Available in wide 58/60in width and long continuous yard lengths up to 20 yards.

Cons

• Some buyers report mixed opinions on thickness and one note of potential fabric staining during wash, so follow care instructions and test a swatch first.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The 60in red nylon spandex tricot is a practical, good-value fabric for makers who need a smooth, breathable textile with reliable stretch and color saturation for swimwear and active garments. It balances comfort and durability well; however, those needing thicker or non-stretch materials should consider alternatives. For its price and versatility it is a smart pick for most sewing projects that require elasticity and a soft hand.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this fabric suitable for swimsuits?
Yes. Its 4-way stretch and nylon/spandex composition make it well suited for swimwear when cared for according to the label.

How wide is the fabric and how many yards can be ordered?
The fabric is about 58/60in wide and is offered in continuous yards, up to 20 yards per cut.

How should the fabric be cleaned?
Hand wash in normal tap water and line-dry out of direct sunlight to avoid fading and preserve elasticity.