types of nylon fabric
Strong, lightweight and quick to dry, nylon shows up in everything from rain jackets to leggings. Knowing the main types of nylon fabric helps you match the weave, weight and finish to your project, so your finished piece performs as well as it looks.
Popular Nylon Fabrics and Their Uses
Ripstop and Taffeta
Nylon ripstop fabric has a reinforced grid that keeps small tears from spreading, making it ideal for tents, kites and packable outerwear. Smooth nylon taffeta is a lighter, crisp plain weave often used for linings and windbreakers.
Heavy-Duty and Coated Nylon
Thick weaves such as ballistic nylon stand up to abrasion in bags, luggage and gear. Coated nylon fabric adds a urethane or silicone layer for water resistance on tarps, covers and rainwear.
Stretch and Sheer Nylon
Nylon spandex fabric offers four-way stretch and recovery for swimwear, dancewear and activewear, while airy nylon tulle and mesh add volume or ventilation.
What to Look For
- Weight: lighter for apparel, heavier for gear
- Finish: coated or DWR-treated if you need waterproof nylon fabric
- Stretch: check the direction and recovery for fitted garments
Ready to start sewing? Browse our nylon selection below to find the right fabric for your next project.