Nylon is made from plastic, specifically Polyamide. It was the first synthetic fabric, invented in the 1930s as an alternative to silk to make war time gear like parachutes.
Nylon is often compared to polyester. The fabrics are similar, but nylon is stronger, with more niche uses. Its durability isn’t just a matter of strength but of resistance to to stretch, mildew, and stains. It's commonly used to make products like backpacks, umbrellas, seat belts, and netting.