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What Is GSM in Fabric? A Simple Guide for Garment Manufacturers

Quick answer: GSM means grams per square metre. It is the weight of one square metre of fabric. A higher GSM means a heavier, thicker fabric; a lower GSM means a lighter, more breathable one. Most shirting is 100–150 GSM, T-shirts 160–220 GSM, and denim or canvas 250–450 GSM.

What does GSM mean in fabric?

GSM is the standard way Indian mills, wholesalers and garment factories describe fabric weight. To measure it, a circle of exactly 100 cm² is cut with a GSM cutter and weighed; the weight in grams is multiplied by 100. If the sample weighs 1.8 g, the fabric is 180 GSM.

GSM chart: which weight for which garment?

GSM rangeFeelTypical use
60–100Very light, sheerLinings, dupattas, chiffon, georgette
100–150LightShirts, kurtis, summer dresses, crepe tops
150–220MediumT-shirts, uniforms, trousers, polo shirts
220–300Medium-heavySweatshirts, chinos, workwear
300–450+HeavyDenim, canvas, jackets, upholstery

Is higher GSM better quality?

Not always. GSM tells you weight, not quality. A 120 GSM yarn-dyed cotton can be far better than a 180 GSM loosely woven polyester. Check GSM together with fibre content, thread count, weave and finishing. For Indian summers, 110–160 GSM cotton or rayon is more comfortable than heavier cloth.

GSM vs ounces (oz): how to convert

Denim is often sold in ounces per square yard. 1 oz/yd² ≈ 33.9 GSM. So 10 oz denim ≈ 339 GSM, and 12 oz ≈ 407 GSM. See our denim weight guide for more.

How to check GSM when buying fabric in bulk

  1. Ask the supplier for the GSM in writing on the quotation.
  2. Request a swatch and weigh it yourself (a ₹1,500 GSM cutter and scale pays for itself).
  3. Allow ±5% tolerance — that is normal across a roll.
  4. Check GSM again after washing if shrinkage matters.

Frequently asked questions

What GSM is best for T-shirts?

160–180 GSM for regular T-shirts, 200–240 GSM for premium or oversized fits.

What GSM is good for school uniforms?

Shirts: 110–140 GSM poly-cotton. Trousers and skirts: 220–280 GSM polyester-viscose.

Does GSM affect price?

Yes. For the same fibre, heavier fabric uses more yarn, so price per metre rises roughly in line with GSM.

Need fabric at a specific GSM? EVOMODA supplies denim, polyester, crepe, gingham and stripe fabrics wholesale from Delhi. Visit evomoda.website, WhatsApp +91 83688 83484 or email contact@evomoda.website.

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