GSM ⇄ oz Converter
Convert fabric weight between g/m² and oz/yd² instantly — and see what each weight is actually used for.
Typically Heavyweight, premium tees with structure.
Exact conversion: 1 oz/yd² = 33.906 g/m². GSM is the global standard; the US often uses oz/yd².
Why two units for the same thing?
Fabric weight is the clearest way to describe how heavy or premium a cloth feels — but the world measures it two ways. Most of the globe uses GSM (grams per square metre), while the United States often quotes ounces per square yard (oz/yd²). They measure the same property, so converting between them lets you compare a US supplier’s “6 oz tee” against a “200 GSM tee” from anywhere else. (They’re almost identical.) The conversion is exact: 1 oz/yd² = 33.906 g/m².
What the weights mean
- 110–140 GSM — lightweight, drapey tees and summer styles.
- 140–180 GSM — standard everyday t-shirts.
- 180–220 GSM — heavyweight, premium tees with structure.
- 280–350 GSM — standard hoodies and sweatshirts.
- 350–500 GSM — heavyweight, structured streetwear hoodies.
Want the full picture? Read our fabric & GSM guide for a complete weight chart and how to choose a fabric. Ready to make something? Tell us your garment and target weightand we’ll match a fabric and send a sample.
Frequently asked questions
What does GSM mean in fabric?
GSM means grams per square metre — the weight of a fabric, and the single most useful number for describing how heavy or premium it feels. A higher GSM means a thicker, heavier cloth.
How do you convert GSM to oz/yd²?
Divide the GSM by 33.906. For example, 200 GSM ÷ 33.906 = 5.9 oz/yd². To go the other way, multiply ounces by 33.906. The converter above does it both ways instantly.
Is GSM or oz used for fabric weight?
Both — for the same thing. GSM (g/m²) is the global standard used across most of the world, while the United States often quotes fabric weight in ounces per square yard (oz/yd²). Converting between them lets you compare fabrics from any supplier.
What is a good GSM for a t-shirt?
Everyday t-shirts are usually 140–180 GSM. Lightweight summer tees run 110–140 GSM, and premium, structured tees are 180–220 GSM. Hoodies and sweatshirts are much heavier at 280–500 GSM.