Lycra: characteristics and uses for dance

Lycra: characteristics and uses for dance

Lycra fabric is a very versatile and widely used material in the dance sector, especially for its high elasticity and ability to resume the original shape. Its spread is therefore due to the many advantages it entails, including elasticity, lightness, breathability and resistance to folds.

Let’s discover together with Manifattura Foderami Cimmino what are the characteristics, uses and advantages of Lycra fabric.

Lycra fabric: characteristics and uses

What is Lycra fabric?

The stretch Lycra fabric, also known as spandex or elastane, is a synthetic material created with polyurethane fibers. It is known for its ability to extend up to 600% of its original length without breaking or losing its shape. This property makes it an ideal dance material, as it allows the dancer to move freely without restrictions.

In addition to its elasticity, Lycra fabric also has other properties that make it suitable for dance. It is lightweight, breathable and dries quickly, making it comfortable to wear during performances or dance classes. In addition, it is crease resistant, which means that it will remain smooth and wrinkle-free even after being stored in a dance bag.

One of the most common ways in which Lycra cloth is used in dance is for the creation of costumes.
Dance costumes made with this synthetic fabric are highly appreciated for their ability to adhere to the body and show the lines of the dancer. In addition, Lycra fabric can be easily painted in a wide range of colors, so it is perfect for creating custom costumes.

In addition to dance costumes, Licra fabric is also used for the creation of clothing for dance practice, such as trousers, leggings and leotards, and for the creation of accessories such as socks and gloves. These garments are designed to provide the dancer with greater freedom of movement and comfort during dance classes.

Lycra fabric: characteristics and uses

How to wash Lycra?

To wash Lycra, just follow these simple steps:

  • Before washing the garment, check the manufacturer’s label to see if there are specific instructions for washing.
  • If Lycra fabric does not have specific instructions, you can wash it by hand or machine. If you use a washing machine, opt for a gentle cycle and a mild detergent.
  • If you decide to wash by hand, fill a tub or sink with warm water and add a mild detergent.
  • Gently soak lycra fabric in water and gently rub to remove dirt.
  • Rinse with clean, cold water. Be sure to remove the detergent completely.
  • To dry a Lycra fabric, avoid hanging it out in the sun, as UV rays can damage the fibers. Prefer a low-temperature dryer or lay the fabric on a dry, flat surface away from heat sources.
  • Finally, do not iron Lycra fabric, as the heat may damage the elastic fibers.

In fact, one of the main advantages of this fabric is precisely the resistance to creases, which means that it will not crease easily. This makes it ideal for dance and sports clothes, since dancers can perform without having to worry about the folds or loss of shape of clothing.

Let’s see together what are the Lycra fabrics recommended by Manifattura Foderami Cimmino.

Licra Sugar

Lycra Sugar is a glitter stretch fabric with a soft hand, used for the making of clothes for dance and sports use. It comes in a wide variety of fashionable colors: fuchsia, purple, red, royal blue, gold, silver, black, flag green and turquoise.

Licra Sugar
Licra Matta Flora Bielastica

Licra Bielastica Matta Flora GRS

GRS certified matt bielastic fabric. It is an eco-sustainable product obtained from recycled materials, made in compliance with environmental and social criteria in all stages of the production chain. With a soft hand, this fabric is perfect for making dance and entertainment items.

Licra Energy

Elastic fabric with fashionable fantasy, perfect for making leotards and dance dresses for special occasions, such as essays and special events. It is available in changing shades of purple, red, blue and green.

Licra energy
Licra Sport

Licra Sport

One of the most suitable fabrics for sports activities and dance is undoubtedly Licra Sport, an elastic fabric with gradient pattern. The presence of dotted glitter gives the fabric a pleasant appearance.

Licra Honey

The main feature of this bielastic fabric is its brilliant effect, which makes it suitable for the creation of costumes and stage dresses, especially for modern dance.

Licra Honey

Licra Flash

Bielastic fabric with patterned shaded base, on whose surface there are silver effects that give a remarkable brilliance. This fabric is also widely used for the creation of leotards and dance dresses.

Consult all the available Lycra fabrics on Manifattura Foderami Cimmino shop, dedicated to the vast world of dance, so you can immediately choose your favorite or the most suitable one depending on the context. Bet on quality, bet on Cimmino!