Matte Lycra Fabric

Matte Lycra Fabric by the Metre

Matte lycra fabric is one of the workhorses of our dance and sportswear range. This fabric, sometimes searched for as matt lycra fabric or slinky matte lycra, has that soft, non-reflective finish that many designers prefer over shiny lycra for a cleaner, more subtle look on stage or in the gym. We stock it by the metre in a consistent quality, so you can order small quantities for a single project or larger amounts if you sew professionally. It's a fabric that behaves predictably, stretches four ways, and holds its shape wash after wash.

What makes matte lycra different

Unlike glossy lycra, this fabric has a flat, velvety surface that absorbs light instead of bouncing it back. That matte finish gives garments a more elegant, understated appearance, which is exactly why it's so popular for dancewear, leotards, and gymnastics apparel where you don't want distracting shine under stage lighting. The blend of polyamide and lycra gives it excellent recovery, so leggings, bodysuits, and swimwear keep their fit even after repeated stretching. If you're after shine instead, our Lycra Fabric Shiny covers that.

Weight, width and handling

This fabric comes in a 150 cm width with a grammage of around 190 grams per square metre, giving it enough body to hold seams well while still moving with the body. It sews easily with a ballpoint or stretch needle, which prevents skipped stitches and snagging. Because it's four-way stretch, pattern pieces can be cut in either direction without losing recovery, something pattern makers appreciate when working with limited fabric width.

Typical applications

• Dance costumes and leotards where a matte finish is preferred over shine
• Gymnastics and figure skating apparel
• Swimwear and activewear linings
• Bodysuits and fitted stage costumes
• Base layers combined with mesh or tulle overlays

For costumes that need volume or layering, this matte lycra pairs well with our Tulle Fabric or Mesh Stretch Fabric, and for wider skirt or backdrop projects, the Tulle Netting Fabric 300CM Wide is worth a look too.

Ordering by the metre and buying in bulk

You order this fabric by the metre, whichever length your project needs. Wholesale customers benefit from tiered pricing that drops as the order quantity goes up, making it a sensible option for costume workshops and small dancewear labels working with regular volumes. Not sure how the matte finish and stretch feel in hand? A fabric swatch can be ordered first, so you know exactly what you're getting before committing to a larger length.

A reliable choice for dance and sportswear

Matte lycra fabric remains a go-to option whenever a project calls for stretch, durability, and a finish that doesn't compete with rhinestones, appliqué, or bold colour work. Whether you're making a single costume or cutting for a full team, this fabric delivers consistent results. Browse the current range and order the length you need, delivered from our stock in Tilburg.