GSM (grams per square metre) is the single most useful fabric specification for buyers โ but also the most misunderstood. A "180 GSM cotton" can mean radically different products depending on fibre, weave and finish. This guide sorts out what GSM ranges actually mean by category.
What GSM Actually Measures
GSM = mass per unit area. Higher GSM = heavier, more substantial fabric. Lower GSM = lighter, more drapy.
Cotton by GSM
- 60โ90 GSM: Voile, muslin, gauze โ baby wear, curtains
- 90โ130 GSM: Lightweight shirting, blouses
- 130โ180 GSM: T-shirts, standard summer apparel
- 180โ220 GSM: Polo shirts, hoodies (single jersey)
- 220โ320 GSM: Fleece, sweatshirts
- 320+ GSM: Heavy fleece, winter items
Wool by GSM
- 150โ180 GSM: Ultra-lightweight tropical suiting
- 180โ220 GSM: Year-round business suit
- 220โ280 GSM: Standard mid-weight suiting
- 280โ340 GSM: Winter suits, blazers
- 340โ480 GSM: Overcoats, peacoats
Silk by Momme (Not GSM)
Silk uses "momme" โ 1 momme = 4.3 GSM:
- 6mm: chiffon, ultra-sheer
- 8mm: habotai
- 12mm: crepe-de-chine
- 16mm: standard satin
- 19โ22mm: pillowcase premium
- 25mm+: heavy satin, luxury
Cashmere by GSM
- 140โ180 GSM: lightweight scarf
- 200โ250 GSM: standard winter scarf
- 280โ350 GSM: heavy luxury scarf/throw
- 350+ GSM: blanket-weight
GSM Tolerance
Specify tolerance on PO: ยฑ5% is standard. Above 10% variance indicates inconsistent production.
About Blueridge Trade LLP
Blueridge Trade LLP operates a dual business model. Our textile division is a direct manufacturer โ we own and operate the production of our cashmere, Merino wool, silk, organic cotton, and blended fabric programmes, controlling quality from fibre sourcing through finishing. This vertical integration is what allows us to guarantee Grade A specifications and offer competitive private-label terms to international brands.
Beyond textiles, we operate as a trading and sourcing partner for industrial commodities (copper, aluminium, zinc, tin, tungsten scrap, activated carbon), botanicals and spices, export-grade packaging, and consumables. In these categories we leverage a vetted network of Indian producers rather than manufacturing in-house โ giving international buyers a single consolidated point of contact for both textile manufacturing and broader Indian sourcing requirements.