Many of us have probably come across the “gsm” term that accompanies a fabric. So what is it and how can it be used for determining the right fabric for our project?
What is GSM?
GSM stands for grams per square meter, which is the weight of each square meter of the fabric. For example, if a linen is 150gsm, it means 1 square meter of the fabric weighs 150gsm. We can use this number to gauge the relative thickness of the different linen fabric.
Use of different weights
Different uses of fabric will call for different weights. The lighter the linen, the sheerer and floatier it is. For example, a sheer curtain can use linen that is 80 to 150gsm in weight. If you need to block out more light, heavier weight linen can be used. Block out curtains can be 250-320gsm in weight.
The use of linen based on common weights can be categorised as below. Please note this is only a rough guide provided as a pointer. As you learn and experience more about linen, these numbers can be flexible as you wish.
|
Uses |
Common GSM |
Weight |
|
Sheer curtains |
70 – 150gsm |
Light |
|
Summer clothing |
120-150gsm |
Light |
|
Trousers, skirts, dresses, shirts |
150 - 250gsm |
Medium |
|
Block out curtains |
250-350gsm |
Medium, Heavy |
|
Napkins |
150-200gsm |
Medium |
|
Sofa |
At least 400gsm |
Heavy |
|
Armchairs |
At least 300gsm |
Heavy |
What weight linen for clothing items?
Medium weight linen from 150gsm up to 300gsm can be used for clothing.
150-220gsm linen are commonly used for shirts, dresses, skirts. For thicker pants or suits, 200-300gsm are perfect.
If you want a lighter and summery shirt/skirt,etc…, 120gsm could be used.
It will take some experience to be able to determine the exact linen that is perfect for your project, however it is a very flexible fabric and if you stick to the commonly used weight, you will do fine.
What weight linen for upholstery?
Upholstery requires the weight of the linen to be of at least 250gsm to withstand traffic. For pillowcases and cushion covers, you can use the lightest end of the heavy weight spectrum which is 250-260gsm. These weights can be used on lighter traffic areas such as dining seat cushions as well. For armchairs and sofas, aim for heavier weight fabric. You could even go up to 500-600gsm linen for upholstering a sofa.
What weight linen for curtains?
Linen is a timeless fabric for curtains. You can never go wrong with linen curtain in a traditional or transitional house.
As a pointer, use 80-150gsm linen for sheer curtains, and 250-350gsm linen for block out curtains with a blockout lining.
What weight linen for towels?
Use 200-250gsm linen for tea towels, and use 300-400gsm linen for bath towels.
What weight linen for napkins?
Use 150-200gsm linen for napkins.
Linen softness
One major factor that determines the softness of the linen is the size of the thread. The smaller (and lighter) the thread, the softer the fabric. This means to make up the same gsm, we will need more small threads as compared to bigger threads. This is why despite having the same gsm, some linen can feel very rough, and some can feel much softer.
Our linen comes in three main weights: 150gsm (most of the plain linen range), 225gsm, 260gsm (most of the printed linen range). Other weights are also available for preorders.