Grams per square metre (GSM) is the most critical fabric weight specification. Getting it right ensures scarves feel like intended at retail — not too flimsy, not too heavy.
GSM Ranges by Scarf Category
Cashmere Scarves
- 140–180 GSM: Lightweight (year-round wear)
- 200–250 GSM: Standard winter
- 280–350 GSM: Heavy luxury
- 350+ GSM: Blanket-scarf weight
Wool Scarves
- 180–220 GSM: Lightweight
- 240–320 GSM: Standard winter
- 320+ GSM: Heavy winter
Silk Scarves (in Momme, 1mm = 4.3 g/m²)
- 8mm (35 GSM): Ultra-light chiffon
- 12mm (52 GSM): Crepe-de-chine
- 16mm (69 GSM): Standard twill
- 22mm (95 GSM): Heavy premium
Cotton Scarves
- 60–100 GSM: Voile, muslin
- 100–140 GSM: Standard summer
- 140–200 GSM: Year-round
- 200+ GSM: Heavy/blanket
Common Mistakes
- Underspecifying — scarves feel cheap, complaints at retail
- Overspecifying — heavy scarves feel uncomfortable, sales drop
- Not specifying tolerance (should be ±5%)
- Not verifying actual GSM against spec (independent test costs $50)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the standard MOQ for scarf programmes from India?
For most scarf categories the practical MOQ is 200 pieces per colour per design. Cashmere and silk programmes often accept 100 pieces at premium pricing. Custom jacquard weaving typically requires 500 pieces minimum to amortise loom setup. Print-based programmes (digital, block-print) can go as low as 50 pieces for silk digital print due to zero setup cost per additional colour.
How long does it take from sample approval to bulk delivery?
Standard scarf production runs 30–45 days after PPS (pre-production sample) approval. Add 3–4 weeks for sample development (typically 2–3 sample rounds), and 18–35 days for sea freight depending on destination. Total order-to-delivery for a first-time programme: 12–16 weeks. Repeat orders without specification change compress to 6–8 weeks.
What certifications should I demand for scarves imported into the EU?
Mandatory: OEKO-TEX Standard 100 (Class I for skin contact). For organic-marketed products: GOTS Transaction Certificate per shipment. For recycled fibre claims: GRS or RCS certificate. For wool-origin claims: RWS chain-of-custody. Also request independent fibre composition test per lot — mis-declared fibre content is one of the most common commercial disputes.
Can you produce scarves in specific Pantone colours?
Yes — Pantone-matched dye programmes are standard. Custom colour development takes 10–14 days and typically requires a 300-metre or 200-piece minimum per colour. Colour matches to Pantone reference are approved via physical strike-off on the specified substrate before bulk production begins. Colour drift between substrates (silk vs cotton) is normal — approve per fabric.
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About Blueridge Trade LLP
Blueridge Trade LLP is a direct textile manufacturer — we own our own scarf production. Cashmere from certified Ladakh sources, spun on our spindles, woven on our looms, dyed at our OEKO-TEX facility, hand-knotted and finished under our supervision. Guaranteed fibre grade, batch-to-batch consistency, and direct-from-mill pricing.
Send us a specification and we'll quote within 24 hours with MOQ, lead time and FOB India pricing.