If you're planning on sewing a swimsuit, the type of fabric that you choose is going to have a big impact on your finished product. It needs to be able to withstand lots of water and chlorine, as well as the sun's harsh UV rays. There are a few different fabric types that are used for swimwear, but none of them are as stretchy or form-fitting as a good quality poly swimwear fabric.
Polyester is the most popular choice for swimwear fabrics because of its inherent qualities. It's a synthetic material that holds its shape and is resistant to chlorine and sunlight, making it the ideal option for a swimsuit. If mixed with elastane, it's even more comfortable and durable.
Another great thing about polyester is that it doesn't bleed easily, making it easy to care for and maintain. This is especially important when it comes to creating swimwear, since you'll be washing your fabric a lot of times. It also holds its color and doesn't fade when exposed to chlorine.
One drawback of using polyester is that it's not as breathable as natural fibers. This means that it can be hot and uncomfortable to wear in the summer, but you can alleviate this problem by choosing a polyester swimwear fabric that is made with Lycra or spandex. This will make the fabric more breathable and stretchy, which will help you feel more comfortable at the pool or beach.
Nylon is a synthetic fabric that's also often used for swimwear. It's fast drying, durable, and holds dyes well, so it's a great choice for swimwear that will be worn often or in harsh environments. However, it's not as stretchy as a good poly swimwear fabric and doesn't hold its shape as well as elastane when wet.
Elastane is a very stretchy material that's commonly used for workout clothes, yoga pants, and skinny jeans. It's usually blended with other fabrics, since it's expensive to use on its own. The best way to find a high-quality elastane swimwear fabric is to look for a nylon-polyspandex blend. This blend will give you the durability of nylon and the elasticity of elastane.
Another great option for swimwear is neoprene. This material is a bit warmer than polyester and doesn't contain latex, which makes it a good choice for people with latex allergies. It's also a great choice for scuba diving and other wet activities, since it's thick and helps prevent hypothermia. It's not as breathable as polyester, though, so you'll want to wear it only when necessary.