Spandex (Lycra / Elastane)
Spandex, also known as Lycra or Elastane, is a high-stretch synthetic fiber blended at 2-20% into fabrics to add stretch and recovery. It is essential in commercial activewear, swimwear, compression wear, and fitted apparel.
Spandex - sold under the brand name Lycra and known in Europe as Elastane - is a synthetic fiber capable of stretching 5 to 8 times its length and snapping back to shape. It is almost never used alone; instead, small percentages are blended into base fabrics to add stretch, recovery, and fit retention. For commercial apparel, the spandex percentage and base-fabric GSM together define the garment category.
Common Blend Ratios and GSM Options
- 2 - 5% spandex: Comfort stretch in jeans, chinos, and woven shirts
- 5 - 10% spandex: Fitted t-shirts, dresses, and everyday stretch knits
- Cotton-Spandex 95/5 at 180 - 220 GSM: Standard for fitted tees and bodysuits
- Poly-Spandex 90/10 at 200 - 250 GSM: Leggings, yoga pants, and activewear
- Nylon-Spandex 80/20 at 220 - 300 GSM: Swimwear, shapewear, and compression garments
Popular Spandex Fabric Types
- Single Jersey + Spandex: Everyday stretch tees and dresses
- Interlock and Ponte: Structured stretch for leggings and blazers
- Tricot Spandex: Smooth, high-stretch knit for swim and dance wear
- Powernet / Compression Mesh: Firm hold for shapewear and sports bras
- Scuba / Neoprene-Style: Thick, sculpting stretch for fashion pieces
Key Features
- Extreme elasticity with excellent shape recovery
- Maintains garment fit and silhouette through repeated wear
- Lightweight, smooth, and comfortable against skin
- Resistant to perspiration, body oils, and detergents
- Enables four-way stretch when knitted properly
Commercial Applications
- Leggings, yoga wear, and gym apparel
- Swimwear, dancewear, and performance costumes
- Compression garments, shapewear, and sports bras
- Stretch denim, fitted shirts, and bodycon fashion
Printing and Customization
Spandex blends print well with sublimation (on poly-spandex), stretch-rated screen inks, and heat transfer films with elasticity. Always use stretch-compatible inks to prevent print cracking when the fabric extends.
Care Instructions
Machine wash cold and air dry whenever possible. High dryer heat and chlorine degrade spandex over time, so chlorine-resistant variants are recommended for swimwear programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Spandex (Lycra / Elastane).