Ningbo Yuanchun Garment Co., Ltd.
Fabric GSM for T-Shirts and Hoodies: Specify Weight Before Sampling
GSM means grams per square metre of fabric. It describes fabric mass per unit area, not the weight of a finished garment. Use it as one part of a fabric specification for T-shirts and hoodies, alongside composition, knit construction, finishing and measurements.
Specify the measurement stage
Ask whether the quoted GSM refers to unfinished fabric, finished fabric or another agreed stage. Record the target and tolerance, test method and conditions so the buyer and factory compare the same reference. A sample garment's total weight cannot be substituted for fabric GSM.
Assess weight with construction and fit
Compare actual swatches and garments for drape, opacity, hand feel and the silhouette your brand needs. Heavier fabric does not automatically establish better quality, and the same GSM can produce different results with different yarns, structures and finishes. For hoodies, confirm whether the brief requires French terry, brushed fleece or another construction.
Evaluate quotation and material availability
Price and feasibility depend on composition, yarn, construction, finishing, consumption, decoration and order quantity as well as GSM. Do not assume a linear price change from a weight change alone. Ask for an order-specific review of material minimums and available options before committing to a launch or replenishment date.
Approve a complete sample specification
Record fabric composition and GSM together with dimensions, tolerances, colour, trims and artwork. Specify shrinkage, colourfastness and pilling requirements as appropriate for your product. Agree the sample and required evidence before bulk production; a GSM value alone is not a performance or safety approval.
Prepare your sampling request
Send your tech pack or reference garment, desired fit, fabric details, test requirements and estimated quantity. For repeat orders, include the previous approved specification and style reference. Regular custom samples take around 15–20 days as a planning reference; actual sampling timing is confirmed for the style. We normally reply within 48 hours.
Review product references and send your brief
T-shirt manufacturing guide · Hoodie manufacturing guide · Sampling and tech-pack checklist
T-shirt references · Hoodie references · Send a production brief