Scarf Weight (GSM) Reference Chart — Complete Guide

Q: 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.

Q: 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.

Q: 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.

Q: 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.

Grams per square metre (GSM) determines a scarf's season positioning, drape, warmth and retail price tier. Here's the complete chart.

Silk Scarf GSM

Chiffon: 8-15 GSM — ultra-sheer
Habotai (China silk): 20-45 GSM — lightweight
Crepe-de-chine: 50-70 GSM — fluid drape
Twill: 70-90 GSM — classic Hermès-style
Charmeuse/satin: 60-100 GSM — lustrous
Shantung/dupion: 50-90 GSM — textured
Satin crepe: 80-120 GSM — heavy premium

Wool Scarf GSM

Lightweight wool challis: 100-150 GSM
Standard wool scarf: 180-250 GSM
Heavy winter wool: 280-350 GSM
Wool blanket/throw scarf: 350-500 GSM

Cashmere Scarf GSM

Lightweight cashmere (summer luxury): 180-230 GSM
Standard cashmere scarf: 240-300 GSM
Winter cashmere scarf: 300-380 GSM
Cashmere blanket/throw: 380-500 GSM

Cotton Scarf GSM

Voile: 50-80 GSM — summer sheer
Mull: 60-90 GSM — soft summer
Standard cotton scarf: 100-150 GSM
Heavy cotton (winter): 180-220 GSM

Season Selection Rule

Summer: < 100 GSM (silk, voile, chiffon)
Spring/Autumn transitional: 100-200 GSM
Winter: 200+ GSM (cashmere, wool, blends)
Deep winter: 300+ GSM

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?