Our New Custom Swim Fabrics (and What We Sewed)
From Banana Split to Picnic à la mer, our new swim prints are basically little summer daydreams.We turned them into swimsuits, put the fabrics to the test, and shared our thoughts (plus a few tips) along the way. There are even a couple of first-ever swimsuits in the mix... And they turned out to be way less scary than expected ;)
Our Favourite Swimwear Patterns
Swim Fabrics at Core Fabrics
Core Fabrics' swimwear fabric is designed for sewists who want reliable stretch, shape retention, and sustainable materials that perform as well as they look. Our recycled nylon and spandex blends offer the durability needed for activewear and swim garments, with UPF protection and chlorine resistance built in. Whether you're making bikinis, one-pieces, or rash guards, these high-performance fabrics make every stitch count toward a swimsuit you'll wear confidently all season.
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Our swimwear fabric collection offers performance knits that deliver reliable 4-way stretch and shape recovery for every sewing project. The nylon and spandex blends provide a smooth, soft hand against the skin with quick-drying properties and excellent durability, perfect for bikinis, one-pieces, or rash guards. Choose from solid colours, Core Fabrics-exclusive swim prints, eye-catching deadstock swimwear fabrics, and vibrant florals, all with the breathable, non-absorbent texture that keeps swimwear light and comfortable. Complete your project with matching swim elastic and bikini hooks from our notions selection.
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Proper care is essential to maintain the quality and vibrant look of your handmade swimwear. Following these simple steps will ensure the longevity of the material.
Tips for Fabric Longevity
Always rinse your swimsuit in cool, fresh water immediately after use to remove chlorine, salt, and sunscreen. We recommend gentle hand washing with a mild soap. Avoid wringing out the fabric; instead, gently squeeze out the excess water and lay it flat to dry in a shaded area. High heat from dryers or direct sun can damage the spandex fibres and cause the colours of your print to fade. Proper washing ensures the fabric remains stretchy and durable.
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Our curated swimwear collection includes everything you need to sew your own swimsuit, all in one place. We stock swim performance knits, swim linings, Core-exclusive swim prints, and a rotating selection of swim deadstock, alongside essential notions like swim elastic, bikini hooks, and closures—so you can source your entire project with confidence.
Whether you’re sewing a classic one-piece, a modern bikini, or performance-focused swimwear, our range makes it easy to find the right fabric for your design. Choose from lighter-weight swim fabrics ideal for linings, or more substantial knits that offer greater support and recovery for the outer layer. All of our swim fabrics are selected for stretch, durability, and comfort in and out of the water.
Not sure which fabric is right for your project? You can order a swatch of any swim fabric to experience the weight, stretch, and hand before committing. Explore our swimwear fabric collection and find high-quality materials designed to help you sew a swimsuit that fits, performs, and lasts.
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The best fabric for swimwear is a high-quality synthetic stretch knit with excellent recovery, most commonly nylon (polyamide) + elastane or polyester + elastane. Nylon blends are often softer and feel more ‘buttery,’ while polyester blends (especially chlorine-resistant types) typically hold up better in pools and resist fading longer. For frequent swimming, prioritise chlorine resistance, strong 4-way stretch, and high recovery.
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To choose the right fabric for your swimwear sewing project, consider the style and fit you're aiming for. For active swimwear like rash guards, choose smooth nylon/spandex blends with excellent chlorine resistance and shape recovery. For beach-ready bikinis or one-pieces, look for soft, 4-way stretch fabrics with the right balance of support and comfort. Our recycled options reduce reliance on virgin fibres while maintaining the performance needed for activewear. Test fabric stretch by pulling in both directions, and consider ordering a sample to feel the hand and recovery before committing to your full project.
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Our swimwear fabrics feature ready-to-sew prints and solids designed specifically for garment sewists. From unique designer deadstock to exclusive Core Fabrics patterns, each print is engineered for optimal colour retention, stretch, and durability through chlorine exposure and wear. Choose from vibrant florals, geometric designs, or striking solid colours, perfect for creating professional-quality bikinis, one-pieces, and rash guards.