Fabric Weight and GSM: Choosing Custom Clothing
GSM means grams per square metre: the mass of a measured area of fabric. It helps describe fabric weight, but it does not tell you everything about a finished garment. Read it alongside the fibre composition, construction, fit and finish before deciding what suits your order.
A heavier specification can be useful when you want a substantial tee. A lighter option may be worth considering for an active event or an extra layer. The useful question is how the garment will be worn, rather than which number is highest.
Fabric GSM is different from garment weight
A 230gsm T-shirt uses fabric listed at 230 grams per square metre. That does not mean every finished shirt weighs 230 grams. Garment size, the amount of fabric used, trims and construction affect the weight of the actual item.
This distinction also matters for an international order. A fabric specification cannot be used on its own to calculate a parcel's shipping charge. The destination, selected garments, size mix and quantity need to be assessed together. See the international delivery guide for what to include in an enquiry.
Use actual garment examples
The following existing styles show how weight can help frame a request. Ask us to confirm the current specification, colours and size chart for the exact item you want.
| Garment example | Listed fabric weight | Useful comparison |
|---|---|---|
| Oversized Drop Shoulder Tee | 190gsm | An oversized cotton tee when that silhouette is the starting point. |
| Everyday Cotton Tee | 230gsm | An everyday cotton option to consider alongside heavier tee styles. |
| Heavyweight Cotton Tee | 260gsm | A heavier cotton tee with a relaxed fit. |
| Heavyweight Premium Hoodie | 430gsm | A cotton-blend hoodie; compare it with other hoodies rather than ranking it against tees. |
Read composition and construction too
Cotton, polyester and blended fabrics are different starting points, but a fibre name is not a complete performance description. Two garments with similar percentages can feel different because their fabric construction and finishing differ. Stretch, texture, brushing and the cut also contribute to the experience of wearing them.
If your team needs clothing for movement, explain the activity and conditions. If a brand collection needs a particular drape or shape, describe that instead. For polos, check the collar and overall fit as well as the fabric. The custom polo guide gives those decisions their own space.
A practical way to compare two candidates
- Start with the wearer: staff, an event team and a retail customer may have different priorities.
- State the setting: indoor work, outdoor use, layering and active wear help define the brief.
- Compare like with like: use the same garment category, intended fit and relevant measurements.
- Add the artwork: include its placement and coverage so the print is considered with the fabric.
GSM alone does not establish softness, opacity, shrinkage, durability or print quality. Where a physical feel is essential, ask about a suitable sample and its timing. Use the fit and sizing guide to separate a fabric choice from a size choice.
Tell us what the garment needs to do
Request garment advice with your preferred examples, intended use, quantity, artwork and destination. We can confirm current material details and quote the configuration that fits your brief.