Thursday Tip with Hali - Fabric by Weight

Thursday Tip // Fabric by weight⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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In light of the increase in online fabric shopping as of late, I (Hali) thought I would share this rundown of how fabric weight is measured and categorized for those who may want this info all in one place. Please note: these categories are somewhat subjective as there is differing terminology floating around but hopefully this is still helpful and gives you more confidence when shopping for fabric online.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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Fabric weight is typically measured in either grams per square meter (GSM) or ounces per square yard (oz or oz/yd2). Fabric weights can range from 2.5-18oz depending on the type of material used to produce it, the weave, and the thickness of the fibres. Generally, the higher the number, the denser the fabric.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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Lightweight (2.5-4oz, 84-135gsm) - jacket linings, undergarments, light layering pieces, think “breathable, flowy garments'' (eg. double gauze, cotton lawn, linen jersey)⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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Medium weight (5-7oz, 170-237gsm) - t-shirts, dresses, pants, blazers, think “staying cool in summer” (eg. lyocell/cotton jersey, lyocell twill, linen, linen/cotton)⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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Heavy weight (8-10oz, 271-339gsm) - outerwear, chore jacket, jeans, overalls, think “bottoms or cooler weather layers” (eg. corduroy, denim, canvas)⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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Even Heavier weight (10-15oz, 339-508gsm) - workwear, jeans, jackets, think “tough and long-lasting” (eg. rigid denim, waxed cotton canvas)⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀