Best Stretchy Fabric for Swimwear & Activewear (2026 Picks)

Looking for the best nylon spandex for your project? We tested and compared our top options so you do not have to. Below you will find our picks, a buying guide, and answers to the most common questions.

Our Top Picks

#1 Classic Choice

Nylon Spandex – Black — from $16.00/yard

4-way stretch
80% Nylon / 20% Spandex
60" wide
Chlorine resistant

Black is the foundation of any swimwear line. Our nylon spandex has excellent recovery — it snaps back to shape after stretching, which is essential for swimwear that fits properly after repeated use.

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#2 Bright & Bold

Nylon Spandex – Neon Pink — from $16.00/yard

4-way stretch
Vibrant neon color
60" wide
UV stable

Stand out at the pool or beach. Neon colors are trending for 2026 activewear. Same performance as our black but makes a statement.

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#3 Clean Base

Nylon Spandex – White — from $16.00/yard

4-way stretch
Sublimation ready
60" wide
Smooth hand feel

White nylon spandex is perfect for sublimation printing. If you are creating custom printed swimwear, start with this as your base fabric.

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Read our full guide: Nylon Spandex vs Polyester Spandex: Which Stretch Fabric Is Best?

Buying Guide: Choosing Stretch Fabric for Swimwear

Note: if you're sewing casual apparel instead of swimwear — T-shirts, leggings, loungewear — cotton spandex jersey fabric offers better breathability and a softer hand feel than nylon spandex. It's not water-resistant, but for everyday garments it's the more comfortable choice.

Not all stretch fabrics are equal. Here is what to look for when sewing swimwear:

4-way stretch is non-negotiable: Swimwear must stretch in both directions (lengthwise and crosswise). 2-way stretch fabrics will restrict movement and feel uncomfortable in the water.
Nylon vs polyester base: Nylon spandex has a smoother hand feel and better drape, making it ideal for swimsuits. Polyester spandex is more durable in chlorinated pools but has a slightly rougher texture.
Spandex percentage: Look for 15-20% spandex content. Less than 15% will not have enough recovery; more than 20% can feel too tight and is harder to sew.
Recovery test: Stretch the fabric and let go. Good swimwear fabric should snap back instantly with no distortion. If it stays stretched, it will sag when wet.
Weight: Swimwear-weight nylon spandex is typically 6-8 oz/yd². Lighter weights work for competition suits; heavier weights work for active surfing.

Sewing Tips for Stretch Fabric

Use a ballpoint or stretch needle to avoid snagging the fibers
Sew with a zigzag stitch or stretch stitch — a straight stitch will pop when the fabric stretches
Use polyester or wooly nylon thread for seams that stretch with the fabric
Consider a serger for clean, professional-looking seams

How Much Fabric Do You Need for Swimwear?

Our nylon spandex is 60 inches wide, which is plenty for most swim projects. Rough single-garment estimates (add ¼ yard for larger sizes, since you cut with the stretch running around the body):

Bikini or two-piece: about ½ yard
One-piece swimsuit: about 1 yard
Rash guard or swim shirt: 1½ to 2 yards
Board shorts: about 1 yard

Buy a little extra if your fabric has a one-way print, since every piece has to be cut in the same direction.

Lining & Finishing Swimwear

Lining is what separates a home-sewn suit from a store-bought one:

Line light colors. White and pastel nylon spandex turns see-through when wet; line it with the same fabric or a dedicated swim lining so it stays opaque.
Use swim lining or power mesh for the front and gusset; power mesh adds gentle support without bulk.
Add clear swimwear elastic in the leg openings and neckline so the suit hugs and recovers.
Topstitch elastic with a zigzag so seams stretch with the body instead of popping.

Frequently Asked Questions

What fabric is swimsuit material made of?

Most modern swimsuits are made from nylon spandex (also called nylon lycra). The typical blend is 80 percent nylon and 20 percent spandex. This combination provides 4-way stretch, chlorine resistance, and quick-dry properties.

Is nylon spandex chlorine resistant?

Yes. Nylon spandex resists chlorine degradation much better than cotton or polyester blends. It maintains its stretch and color even after repeated pool use. For maximum lifespan, rinse your swimwear in fresh water immediately after swimming.

How much stretch should swimwear fabric have?

Swimwear fabric should stretch at least 50 percent in both directions and recover to its original size. This is called 4-way stretch. Our nylon spandex fabrics have 75 percent or more stretch with full recovery.

Do you need to line swimwear?

Line light and white fabrics, which turn sheer when wet, and line the front and gusset of any suit for comfort. Darker, heavier nylon spandex can sometimes go unlined, but a lining always gives a cleaner, longer-lasting finish.

How much fabric do I need for a swimsuit?

On 60-inch-wide nylon spandex, about 1 yard makes a one-piece and roughly half a yard makes a bikini. Add a little extra for larger sizes or one-way prints, since all pieces are cut with the stretch running the same direction.