When developing t-shirts for bulk production, many brands focus heavily on fabric type—such as cotton, polyester, or blends. However, from a manufacturing perspective, fabric weight (gsm) often has a greater impact on product performance, consistency, and scalability than fabric type alone.
Understanding why fabric weight matters more helps brands make more practical decisions during custom t-shirt development.
Fabric Type vs Fabric Weight: What’s the Difference?
Fabric type refers to the fiber composition of the material, such as cotton or blended fabrics. Fabric weight, measured in grams per square meter (gsm), describes how dense and heavy the fabric is.
While fabric type influences texture and breathability, fabric weight determines structure, durability, and production stability, especially in bulk manufacturing.
How Fabric Weight Affects T-Shirt Structure
Fabric weight directly influences how a t-shirt holds its shape. Lightweight fabrics tend to drape more freely, while heavier fabrics provide a more defined silhouette and better shape retention.
For bulk production, consistent structure is essential. T-shirts with stable fabric weight are less likely to twist, stretch unevenly, or deform after washing, reducing quality issues across large quantities.
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