View Full Version : Fabric confusion
Mermaid Kalliope
08-22-2011, 06:49 AM
I usually do my fabric shopping IN the store, so I can see and feel the fabric and ask the workers about it....
Well, I was searching for deals online for spandex.... HOW MANY DIFFERENT TYPES ARE THERE? DX
So, I have found some "Regular spandex" but they do not come in the colour I need... I've also found satin spandex, rayon spandex, nylon spandex (which from my knowledge are the usual two for swimsuits), and many other types.
Are all types of spandex okay for tails or only the rayon/nylon spandex?
I'm going to check out some local fabric stores, too, for deals, but I've found some pretty cheap fabric... But then again, is the quality cheap?
Anyone have a go to spot for fabric online? Or should I just result to going to the store/fashion district(LA)?
THANK YOU! <3
Moonflower
08-22-2011, 11:28 AM
All types should be fine except for anything with cotton. The only reason for this is cotton is a natural fiber as opposed to man-made and can break down very quickly in water (over time it will lose it's elasticity because the fibers themselves have broken up within the elastic fibers).
Satin spandex, from what I've experienced, is simply a standard spandex with a high shine on one side.
Oh, the only thing you really need to check is the directional stretch of the fabric. Make sure it's either "all-way" or "4-way" or something similar. Basically, it needs to stretch both vertically and horizontally or else the fit will be all wrong no matter what you try to do to it.
If you get a chance to look at fabrics in person, lift up one side of the material and slide your hand under it. if you can see your skin through one layer of fabric, put it back. Stretch the material a bit and check it again. When it comes to tails, the heavier the fabric the better, as it will last longer with repeat exposure to water.
If you're in/near LA, do yourself a favor and shop in the fabric district. You may be surprised at some of the awesome fabrics you can find (and OMG I'm envious! LOL).
Mermaid Kalliope
08-25-2011, 09:32 PM
I am 45 minutes (more or less) south of LA. I can go to the fashion district! XP
So, I want thicker 4-way stretch fabric, right? Hmmm... Time to take a trip soon! Yay Halloween specials!
LindseyLu
08-26-2011, 05:54 PM
From personal experience, nylon spandex will hold up much longer from chlorine damage. It doesn't have that beautiful shine, but if you're painting it anyway it won't matter. The shinnier fabric tends to be eaten away from the chlorine :( And yes, 4 way stretch is the way to go! You can order swatches online from spandex world (which I have done, there's no charge) so you can feel them for yourself! Made a huge difference for me in what I was planning ot order! :)
Mermaid Kalliope
08-28-2011, 05:25 AM
I didn't know the swatches were free! That opens a whole new door! Well, I'm going to try and go to the fashion district any ways, just to see what they have. XP
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