Stretch Velvet?

[theMerFanc]

Ok, so I did a search for threads about types of fabric and couldn't find anything.

I am going to be venturing into my first tail making process and I would like to use stretch velvet so it will be soft. But my question is, what exactly is stretch velvet? I have faux crushed velvet stuff that I get from Joanns that is next to the real velvet but I have no idea if that is the right stuff. I also thought that velvet is really really bad to get wet? I am mildly terrified to get the wrong stuff just to have it poof. The crushed velvet stiff is, I believe $6.99 a yard at Joanns, if that helps anyone know what I'm talking about. I could add a picture if needed. I really don't want to buy from online so I don't have to pay shipping and I can feel and see the stuff in person and so i can use coupons :P

[Mermaid Kelda]

I think the stretch velvet that is good for water use is 4-way stretch, but don't quote me on that. Someone with more experience is going to have to weigh in.

[Luna Dreamtide]

You can easily tell stretch fabrics by testing how they feel. Also where I shop for fabric stretch velvet is typically found next to Lycra and spandex fabric. Not sure if this helps. :)

[theMerFanc]

I am so dumb, I usually just awkwardly stroke the fabric as I walk down isles until something feels right. I've never had to be afraid of materials being water safe before...

[Princess Pearl]

You're going to be looking for a four way stretch fabric. Four way means basically that it can stretch lengthwise and width wise.

You'll also want something made of artificial fibres- things ending in -on or -ex, or starting with poly are your friends. Most swim fabrics are nylon/spandex blends.

I haven't swum in stretch velvet, but I have washed a lot of it (I had a wannabe goth phase in high school). When it gets wet, it gets HEAVY! I really don't think that it would make for a good tail for swimming. For land mermaiding, through, it would be awesome!

[Mermaid Fenicia]

Most of my tails are made in (2-way) stretch velvet, and I don't have any problems with them while swimming. ;) The heaviness makes it easier to dive for me. ;)

[theMerFanc]

Ok, so I am pretty sure this (http://www.joann.com/lets-pretend-velvet/9748922.html) is the crushed velvet I usually use. It is stretchy in both directions but Joanns also has a specific Stretch Velvet/ So are they not the same thing? If i use the first one will it not work?