Knit Fabric 101 - Swim Fabric and Board Short Fabric


What is Swim Fabric?

Swim fabric has a smooth, cool hand and is the perfect choice for fitted swimwear. Many of our swim fabrics are also rated UV 50+ for optimal sun protection. Swim can also be used for dance and gymnastics.

Swimsuit Fabric Uses: womens and girls swimwear, rash guards, fitted boys and mens swim trunks (jammers), dance, gymnastics, etc.

  • Care: Always rinse immediately after use in cold, fresh water to remove chlorine and saltwater. Wash cold and lay flat to dry or tumble dry low. Avoid washing with rough items.
  • Stretch: 4-way.
  • Fabric Content: Polyester/Spandex or Nylon/Spandex

KnitFabric.com carries an extensive line of:

(1) Solid Swim Fabrics

(2) Custom Swim Fabrics

(3) Swimsuit Fabrics from Other Designers

Here's a few examples of things our customers have sewn up with our swim fabric:


What is Board Short Fabric?

Board Shorts fabric has a brushed surface and no stretch. Board short fabric is commonly used for boy’s and men’s swimwear, but it can also be used for lightweight jackets and shorts.

  • Uses: Men’s swimwear, jackets, shorts
  • Care: Always rinse immediately after use in cold, fresh water to remove chlorine and saltwater. Wash cold and lay flat to dry or tumble dry low. Avoid washing with rough items.
  • Stretch: None.

What we like: High quality fabric means it wont wear out after one season, and sews up nicely so you can be sure to get a custom fit.

KnitFabric.com carries a wide variety of Board Short Fabric.

For more info, check out our Board Short Fabric Guide. Here's a few things our customers have made with our board short fabrics:

Written by Heather Isaacson