What is the fabric GSM and why is it important for fabric choice?

Fabric GSM is an important factor when selecting fabric for your project.

Usually, GSM stands for ‘Grams per Square Meter’ and is a measure of the weight of a fabric. It can affect the fabric’s feeling, drape, and durability. So understanding the GSM of a fabric empowers you to make informed decisions, ensuring optimal outcomes for your project. In this post, we also wanna you know why it matters and how to choose suitable fabrics.

How to weigh the fabric GSM?

Before using the fabric, we need to know the weight of the fabric before working with it. A circle cutter is an accurate method to check fabric weight. Below are the steps when weighing the fabric.

1. Cutting a circle fabric sample with a circle cutting tool, it’s 10cm x 10cm.
2. Weight the circle fabric sample by using an accurate weight.
3. Calculate the GSM: If your sample is 100 square centimeters, the weight of this circle sample in grams is the same as the GSM.

How does GSM affect your choice?

We always take GSM to be 3 general typical fabrics, here’s the characters and commonly used suggestions for your evaluation:

1. Lightweight fabrics (below 150gsm):

• Below 150gsm fabric: it’s typically thin, soft, breathable, absorbent and perspiring
• Fabric style: Chiffon, georgette, voile, lace, tulle
• They are always used for summer clothes like shirts, Breezy dresses & blouses, lingerie, scarves or some household products like bed covers or sheets.

2. Middleweight fabrics (between 150-350gsm)

• It’s thick, stiff, warm, durability and breathable
• Fabric type: viscose linen, Tencel rib, Tencel + cotton jersey, bamboo jersey
• They’re always used for winter clothes to warm your body or some Boiler Suit, Pants, tops, structured dresses, and lightweight jackets.

3. Heavyweight fabrics (over 350gsm)

• It’s durability, warm and less breathable
• Fabric type: canvas, denim, coating, fleece, Ponte, jacquard, brocade
• They’re always used for winter clothes or enduring consideration, Jeans, cozy sweaters, and coats.

How to choose the suitable fabric GSM?

Fabric GSM (Grams per Square Meter) is a measurement used to indicate the weight or density of a fabric. It represents the weight of the fabric per unit area, typically expressed in grams per square meter. Fabric GSM is an important consideration for fabric choice because it affects several aspects of the fabric’s performance and suitability for different applications:

Thickness and Durability: Generally, fabrics with higher GSM are thicker and denser, making them more durable and less prone to wear and tear. Fabrics with lower GSM may be lighter and more breathable but may also be less durable.

Warmth and Insulation: Fabrics with higher GSM tend to provide better insulation and warmth, making them suitable for cold weather or applications where thermal protection is needed. Lower GSM fabrics are usually lighter and more breathable, making them suitable for warmer climates or activities where ventilation is important.

Absorbency and Moisture Management: Fabric GSM can affect its absorbency and moisture-wicking properties. Fabrics with higher GSM may have greater absorbency, making them suitable for applications where moisture management is important, such as activewear or towels. Lower GSM fabrics may be more lightweight and quick-drying, making them suitable for activities where moisture control is critical.

Draperies and Appearance: In textiles such as curtains or draperies, fabric GSM can affect the way the fabric hangs or drapes. Heavier fabrics with higher GSM may provide better coverage and drape more elegantly, while lighter fabrics with lower GSM may have a more airy and casual appearance.

Cost and Efficiency: Fabric GSM can also impact the cost of production and the amount of fabric required for a particular project. Fabrics with higher GSM generally require more raw materials and may be more expensive to produce compared to fabrics with lower GSM.

Overall, understanding fabric GSM is important for making informed decisions about fabric choice based on factors such as durability, warmth, absorbency, appearance, and cost-effectiveness for a particular application or project.