If you're just starting out with sewing swimwear, one of the most important things to understand is lining fabric. It’s not just about making your bikini or one-piece look neat on the inside—it directly affects the fit, comfort, performance, and durability of your swimwear. In this guide, we’ll break down all the popular types of swimwear lining fabrics, what they’re used for, their GSM (grams per square meter), and where you can find them in the USA or Canada.
Why Do You Need Lining in Swimwear?
Swimwear linings serve several functions:
- They provide coverage and prevent sheerness when wet.
- They help maintain the structure of the swimsuit.
- They increase comfort against the skin.
- In some cases, linings offer additional support.
Top Types of Swimwear Lining Fabrics
1. Nylon-Spandex Lining
- GSM: 90–120
- Stretch: 4-way stretch
- Use: Common across commercial and indie swimwear brands.
- Where to buy: Spandex World, Fabric Wholesale Direct, Fabricland (Canada)
- Notes: A versatile choice, usually smooth and lightweight, it comes in a variety of colors. Ideal for general swimwear use.
2. Helenka Lining
- GSM: 90–100
- Stretch: 4-way stretch with soft, silky hand feel
- Use: Ideal for high-end or fashion swimwear designs
- Where to buy: Phee Fabrics (USA), Stretchhouse (NYC), some Etsy shops
- Notes: A premium quality lining that feels luxurious, drapes well, and provides great breathability and stretch. Excellent for reversible or lined designs where a clean finish matters.
3. Polyester Interlock Lining
- GSM: 110–140
- Stretch: 2-way to light 4-way
- Use: Suitable for budget-friendly swimwear and children’s swimwear
- Where to buy: Joann Fabrics, Rockywoods, Discovery Fabrics (Canada)
- Notes: Interlock is soft and stable. It’s thicker than nylon linings and holds its shape well. However, it doesn't dry as fast as nylon-spandex blends.
4. Swim Mesh / Power Mesh
- GSM: 130–150
- Stretch: 4-way stretch with moderate support
- Use: Supportive lining used in high-waisted bottoms or control swimsuits
- Where to buy: Mood Fabrics, Blackbird Fabrics, Spandex World
- Notes: Ideal for internal panels to shape and support. Comes in various weights depending on compression needs.
5. Power Net
- GSM: 180–220
- Stretch: Firm 4-way stretch with high recovery
- Use: Used for bust support, waist control, or as a shelf bra lining
- Where to buy: Bra Makers Supply (Canada), Sew Sassy Fabrics, Spandex House
- Notes: More rigid than mesh. If your swimsuit design needs structure and lift, this is the lining of choice.
Can You Line a Swimsuit with Self Fabric?
Yes, some swimsuits are lined with the same fabric as the outer shell (known as "self-lining"). This works well for reversible swimwear or when you want a seamless look. However, depending on the style—like a gathered top or a tight high-waisted bottom—self-lining may cause uneven tension or bulking, especially if the fabric is thick or compressive. In such cases, choosing a purpose-built lining fabric is the better option.
Tips for Choosing the Right Lining:
- Match the stretch percentage of your lining to your outer fabric.
- Use lightweight lining for fashion swimwear.
- Use power net or mesh when support and shaping are needed.
- For reversible swimwear, choose linings that are soft, breathable, and not bulky—Helenka lining is a great example.
Where to Buy Swimwear Lining in the USA & Canada:
- USA: Spandex World, Spandex House, Rockywoods, Phee Fabrics, Fabric Wholesale Direct
- Canada: Discovery Fabrics, Bra Makers Supply, Fabricland, Blackbird Fabrics
- Online Platforms: Etsy, Amazon (specific suppliers), MoodFabrics.com
Picking the right lining is a key part of swimwear design. Not only does it affect the way your garment feels and fits, but it also determines its durability in water. By learning to choose the best lining for each style, you set yourself up for creating professional, beautiful swimwear from the start.
Want to see how lining behaves in real time? Subscribe to our YouTube channel where we walk through construction steps in a relaxing, aesthetic setting that lets you see the difference fabric choices make!