When you pick up a custom T-shirt and it immediately feels premium, it's usually not the print or the colour that does it — it's the fabric itself. The key figure: GSM, grams per square metre.
What GSM actually means
GSM (grams per square metre) indicates how much a square metre of the fabric weighs. The higher the value, the denser, more stable and — in most cases — more premium the textile feels. But higher is not always better; it depends on the intended use.
The three GSM zones
Lightweights (120–160 g/m²) are ideal for sportswear, summer shirts and underlayers. They breathe well, sit close to the body and are cost-effective to produce. The downside: they can appear see-through and have less drape.
Midweights (160–220 g/m²) are the sweet spot for most collections. A 180g jersey T-shirt combines wearing comfort, adequate opacity and good print properties. No wonder this range dominates the market.
Heavyweights (220–320 g/m²) are the statement piece. A 280g+ T-shirt or 340g hoodie signals immediately: this is not throwaway merch. These weights are more durable, drape better and feel like a brand.
„The first thing a customer associates with your brand is the feel of the fabric — not the logo.“
— palstudios design team
GSM and print technique
An important aspect often overlooked: heavier fabrics absorb colours differently. With screen printing on heavyweight cotton, the colour sits more stable and vibrant. On very light fabrics, screen-printing ink can bleed through. DTG works best on medium weights.
Tip for brand builders: if you position yourself in the premium segment, never go below 200g for T-shirts or 320g for hoodies. The cost is higher — but the perceived value increases disproportionately.
