What is gsm fabric?
GSM is the abbreviation of fabric. It stands for grams per sq. meter. In metric measurements, it is the fabric’s weight per square meter. The fabric’s weight will be denser if the GSM number is higher. This number is important because it indicates the thickness and quality. For example, denim’s GSM is greater than that of soft chiffon. Denim will last longer and be more durable than chiffon if it has a higher fabric GSM.
WHAT IS FABRIC SM?
Fabric GSM is the fabric’s grams per meter. It refers to the metric measurement. While most fabrics are measured in metric (g/m2), it is not uncommon for fabrics to be measured in imperial (oz/yd) format.
Conversions:
- 1 ounce = 28.3g
- 1 gram equals 0.035 ounces
- 1 yard = 0.9 meters
- 1 meter = 1.09 yards
Because of the higher GSM of fabrics, the price will be affected because more raw materials are required to make thicker and denser GSM quantities.
These facts are crucial for the merchandiser, who must know the correct GSM of the fabric to assign it the right purpose. For example, winter suits must be warm. A high GSM can help with this aspect. GSM is also a factor in how fabric drapes and its durability.
QUALITIES OF FABRIC GSM
Different qualities are based on the fabric’s GSM weight. These include the fabric’s ability to ‘breathe, how they fit and drape, and their weight.
ABILITY TO BREATHE
Lightweight fabrics can breathe better and are suitable for summer clothing. They allow cool air to flow through the fabric, which allows for a cooling effect. This quality is found in cotton and light linens, great for summer clothes.
The ideal weight range for lightweight suits is between 210 GSM and 230 GSM. It is cool in summer and warm enough in winter to wear a cardigan underneath. Heavy GSM fabrics are more comfortable and can be used for heavier winter clothing and suits.
FIT AND DRAPE
Tailors love working with heavy-weighted fabrics. They drape down and retain their shape better than lighter weight fabrics. The fabric’s weight and drape determine how fitted a suit looks. Suits made from lighter weight fabrics tend to wrinkle and move in the wind. Thicker fabrics will not catch on the clothing of a lighter weight. A fabric with a heavier weight can make it appear larger.
FABRIC GSM WEIGHT
There are three types of weight. These weights range from light to heavy and medium to heavy. Some weights are specifically designed for certain purposes, such as shirting, towelling or wool suiting. Lightweight fabrics can weigh between 180 GSM to 230 GSM.
This category includes silks, linens, cotton, fine wool, and cotton. Medium weight ranges from 240 GSM up to 290 GSM. This includes wool, thicker and some silk blends. Tweeds and thick wool are considered heavyweight and can weigh more than 300 GSM.
The following are different weights and types of fabric:
WOOL WEIGHTS
There are many weights of wool. The weight and thread count affect the wool quality and suitability for various clothing items.
SHIRTING AND SHIRT FABRICS
Good quality dress shirts will be made from cotton, linen, or both. The thickness of the shirt will vary from 100 to 200 GSM. This will determine the highest quality shirt.
TOWELING & BATH TOWELS
High GSM is a must for a thick and fluffy bath towel. To get a thick and absorbent towel, you should aim for 400 GSM. You will get the best quality towel if you keep the GSM count in mind. Although towels can be fluffed up to look absorbent, the GSM number truly determines the quality of the towel.
SHEETS & BED LINEN
Most people prefer a GSM of 90-120 for their bedsheets. This allows them to feel soft, comfortable, and breathable. Sheets with a higher GSM will feel heavier and more luxurious. They will also last longer.
HOW TO CALCULATE FABRIC SM?
A GSM cutter machine is the most common method of calculating the GSM. The machine can cut five different pieces of fabric. The GSM is calculated by multiplying the mean value of the five samples by 100.
300 GSM is equivalent to a meter of fabric weighing 300gm. Standard measures are between 30 and 150 light GSM. Medium weight is measured between 150 and 350 GSM, while more than 350 GSM are heavyweight.
T-shirts are 180 GSM in weight, although some T-shirts can be as light as 130-150 GSM.
CATEGORIES OF FABRIC GSM
LIGHT WEIGHT
Lightweight fabrics are those with a lower GSM rating. They include chiffon and linen and organza, cheesecloth, and lace.
MEDIUM WEIGHT
Medium-weight fabrics are in the middle range in fabric GSM measurements, including hand towels, face towels, velvet, chartreuse, taffeta, and velvet.
WEIGHT HEAVY
Heavyweight fabrics are the most absorbent range in the GSM range. They can be used as good quality towels for pool and bath. Upholstery fabrics, canvas, pure cotton, and poplin are made from heavyweight fabrics.
FABRIC GSM-IN CONCLUSION
Knowing the GSM (or the weight) of the fabric is important. This information is particularly useful for fabric manufacturers as it tells you about the fabric’s quality and durability. A high GSM linen shirt will have higher quality, but it will also be more expensive because it has a higher GSM count. GSM (fabric density) measures the quality and quantity of the fabric. It also reflects the content of the fabric.
Manufacturers use the GSM measurement to determine weight and durability. GSM refers to the final product’s gram weight. It is a key indicator of quality and metric measurement.
