Perhaps you’ve heard the term “nylon fabric” but are unsure of what actually is? Well, we’ve got you covered!

 

Nylon fabric is durable and lightweight, making it perfect for various applications. It is also a versatile fabric and readily available in various colours, weights, and textures. Whether you’re looking for a lightweight fabric for a dress or something more opulent for a coat, Nylon fabric got you covered. In this post, we have highlighted all you need to know about Nylon fabric, including its history, benefits, uses and how it is made; Read to learn what actually is Nylon in the world of textiles.

 

What is Nylon Fabric? 

Nylon is a synthetic fabric composed of long polymer chains. It is an excellent choice for various applications, including clothing and accessories as well as industrial application, due to its lightweight nature and resistance to fading, shrinking, wrinkling, and abrasion resistance. 

Strong and long-lasting, nylon has established itself as a mainstay in both fashion and interior design. Due to its strength, durability, and low cost, it quickly became popular after its initial development in the 1930s.

 

History of Nylon Fabric 

Wallace H. Carothers and his research team, working for DuPont, discovered nylon, a synthetic fabric, in the 1930s. During World War II, it became the material to go for making parachutes and other military applications. Following the war, nylon was widely accessible to the general public and quickly grew in popularity as a multipurpose material for everything from clothing to carpeting. 

Nylon remains one of the most widely used fabrics on the market today. While sturdy and long-lasting, it is also cosy and easy to maintain. Various products use nylon fabric, from clothing to carpets to tents. 

 

High Density Nylon Ripstop

 

What Is Nylon Fabric Made Of? 

A synthetic fabric called nylon is created when chemicals with a carbon base, such as coal and petroleum, react under high pressure and heat. A large polymer in the shape of a nylon sheet is created during this chemical process, known as condensation polymerization. This nylon sheet is then cut into pieces, melted, and drawn through a mechanical spinneret to create individual fibres woven into the fibres to create nylon fabric for clothing. 

 

Benefits of Nylon Fabric 

•  Strong and lightweight, making it ideal for various uses. Its strength also means that it is easily machine-washable, making it an excellent fabric for clothing and accessories. 
• Resistant to fading, shrinking, and wrinkling, making it an ideal choice for clothing and accessories.
• Stretchy, allowing designers to create almost any design they want.  
• Durable and can be dried without losing its shape making it is an excellent choice of clothing. 

 

Types of Nylon Fabric 

• Dull Nylon is the most common type of nylon fabric. It has a dull finish and is typically used for clothing, upholstery, and other heavy-duty applications. 
• Textured Nylon is a type of nylon fabric with a textured surface. It is commonly used for sportswear, outerwear, and activewear. 
• Bonded Nylon is a type of nylon fabric bonded with another material, typically polyester. It makes it more durable and less likely to pill or fade. It is often used for garments that require extra durabilities, such as workwear or activewear. 

 

Uses of Nylon Fabric 

• Clothing: Shorts, swimwear, underwear, jackets, and other apparel items. 
• Curtains, upholstery, bed sheets, and many other home décor items.
• Shoes, backpacks, shoes, and bags. 
• Industrial applications, such as car and aeroplane parts. 
• Other applications include sporting goods, wrist watches, and computer components. 

 

 

Metallic Foil Nylon Lycra Dancewear

 

Is Nylon Fabric Waterproof? 

Nylon is a water-resistant fabric, not a waterproof material. It can help repel water but won’t completely keep it out of the fabric. So, while the fabric is not waterproof, water-resistant coatings can be applied to help improve the waterproofing property. 

 

How to Care for Nylon Fabric

It is relatively simple to care for it, and with proper care, it will undoubtedly last for many years. Here are a few simple tips to keep in mind: 

• To avoid damaging the fabric, use a mild detergent and cool water when washing nylon fabric, and always follow the washing instructions on the care label. 
• If you need to remove a stain, use a mild detergent to pre-treat the stain before washing. 
• Nylon fabric can be ironed on low heat if needed, and do not iron the fabric while it is damp, as this could cause water stains. 
• Always keep the fabric stored in a dry environment after washing and drying. 
• Keep your fabric dry and avoid exposing it to UV light, which can cause the nylon to fade. 

 

Our Nylon Fabrics Range

 

Conclusion 

Nylon is a synthetic, artificial fibre used in fabrics and other textiles, and it is used as an alternative to natural textiles due to its strength and durability. Nylon fabrics come in various colours and are also used to make other fabrics, such as polyester and viscose. It is an excellent option if you are looking for a versatile and reliable fabric. 

Visit us at UK fabrics online to explore more of our options, available in a wide range of colours. 

All photos by UK fabrics.