Fabric Guide for MuleBuy Spreadsheet Clothing

Understanding Fabric Weights

Fabric weight is measured in GSM (grams per square meter). This number tells you how heavy and substantial the fabric is. Understanding GSM helps you choose the right item for your needs.

GSM Reference Chart

T-Shirts

• **150-180 GSM**: Lightweight, breathable, summer wear
• **180-220 GSM**: Standard weight, good for everyday wear
• **220-280 GSM**: Heavyweight, structured, premium feel
• **280+ GSM**: Ultra-heavyweight, boxy cuts, statement pieces

Hoodies and Sweaters

• **250-350 GSM**: Lightweight, good for layering
• **350-450 GSM**: Medium weight, standard hoodie feel
• **450-600 GSM**: Heavyweight, substantial warmth
• **600+ GSM**: Ultra-heavyweight, premium fleece

Pants and Shorts

• **200-300 GSM**: Lightweight, summer pants
• **300-400 GSM**: Standard weight, good for daily wear
• **400-500 GSM**: Heavyweight, durable, workwear style

Fabric Blends Explained

Cotton (100%)

• **Pros**: Soft, breathable, natural
• **Cons**: Shrinks, wrinkles, less durable
• **Best for**: T-shirts, underwear, casual wear

Cotton-Polyester Blend

• **Pros**: Durable, wrinkle-resistant, less shrinkage
• **Cons**: Less breathable than pure cotton
• **Best for**: Hoodies, activewear, workwear

Cotton-Modal Blend

• **Pros**: Extremely soft, drapes well, holds color
• **Cons**: More expensive, less durable
• **Best for**: Premium basics, underwear, loungewear

French Terry

• **Pros**: Lightweight, breathable, soft interior
• **Cons**: Less warm than fleece
• **Best for**: Spring hoodies, sweatpants, loungewear

Fleece

• **Pros**: Warm, soft, insulating
• **Cons**: Heavier, can pill over time
• **Best for**: Winter hoodies, cold weather wear

How to Choose Fabric

For Daily Wear

• **T-Shirts**: 200-250 GSM cotton or cotton blend
• **Hoodies**: 350-450 GSM cotton-poly blend
• **Pants**: 300-400 GSM cotton or denim

For Warm Weather

• **T-Shirts**: 150-200 GSM lightweight cotton
• **Shorts**: 200-300 GSM cotton or linen blend

For Cold Weather

• **Hoodies**: 450-600 GSM heavyweight fleece
• **Jackets**: Look for insulated or lined options

For Active Use

• **T-Shirts**: Cotton-poly blend with moisture-wicking
• **Pants**: Stretch blends with elastane

Fabric Quality Indicators

What to Look For

• Even texture without thin spots
• Tight weave or knit without gaps
• Consistent color throughout
• Quality stitching and seam finishing

What to Avoid

• Thin or see-through fabric (unless intended)
• Uneven dye or color patches
• Loose threads or unraveling edges
• Stiff or scratchy texture

Care and Maintenance

• **Cotton**: Wash cold, tumble dry low, expect some shrinkage
• **Blends**: Follow care label, generally more forgiving
• **Heavyweight**: May require flat drying to maintain shape
• **French Terry**: Wash inside out to protect the looped surface

Pro Tips for 2026

• Higher GSM does not always mean better quality
• Consider the season and intended use when choosing fabric weight
• Blends often outperform pure cotton for durability
• Check the fabric description in the product listing for specific details