Fabric Weight Chart: Master Guide for All Major Textiles
Complete master fabric weight chart. Compare GSM and oz/yd² across 30+ fabrics including linen, cotton, silk, denim, wool, canvas, and velvet.
1. Why A Master Weight Chart Matters
When sourcing fabric online or evaluating commercial garments, having a reliable weight benchmark across fiber categories prevents costly sewing and purchasing mistakes.
Convert any custom dimension into accurate GSM and linear yardage with our free Fabric GSM Calculator.
2. The Master Textile Weight Chart
| Fabric Type | Fiber Family | Typical GSM | Ounces (oz/yd²) | Weight Class |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Silk Chiffon | Silk / Synthetic | 30–50 GSM | 0.9–1.5 oz | Gossamer / Sheer |
| Cotton Lawn | Cotton | 75–95 GSM | 2.2–2.8 oz | Lightweight |
| Cotton Poplin | Cotton | 110–140 GSM | 3.2–4.1 oz | Light-Medium |
| T-Shirt Jersey | Cotton / Blend | 160–200 GSM | 4.7–5.9 oz | Medium Weight |
| Dress Linen | Bast (Flax) | 180–220 GSM | 5.3–6.5 oz | Medium Weight |
| Chino Twill | Cotton | 220–260 GSM | 6.5–7.7 oz | Medium-Heavy |
| Standard Denim | Cotton Twill | 407 GSM (12 oz) | 12.0 oz | Heavyweight |
| Duck Canvas | Cotton / Linen | 350–500 GSM | 10.3–14.7 oz | Heavy Industrial |
| Drapery Velvet | Cotton / Poly | 380–550 GSM | 11.2–16.2 oz | Heavyweight Pile |
3. Why Equal GSM Feels Different Across Fibers
Notice that a 200 GSM wool flannel feels considerably thicker and loftier than a 200 GSM cotton poplin. Why?
Wool fibers have natural natural crimp and microscopic scales that trap air between fibers, resulting in lower structural bulk density. Cotton fibers are dense cellulose tubes packed tightly together. Therefore, equal weight creates a thinner, denser fabric in cotton and a loftier, thicker fabric in wool.
4. How to Use This Chart When Buying Fabric
When matching fabric to a commercial sewing pattern:
- Check the pattern envelope for suggested fabric types.
- Find those fabric names on this chart to see their recommended GSM range.
- Look for fabric listings whose verified weight sits within that designated target window.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most versatile all-around fabric weight?
Medium weight fabrics between 160 and 220 GSM (approx. 4.7 to 6.5 oz/yd²) are the most versatile, suitable for shirts, casual pants, dresses, and skirts.
Is GSM the same for knit and woven fabrics?
Yes, GSM measures weight per area for both. However, because knits contain flexible loops, a 180 GSM knit will drape much more fluidly than a 180 GSM rigid woven fabric.