The relationship between GSM (grams per square meter) and yarn count is crucial in textile manufacturing. GSM determines fabric weight, while yarn count defines fiber thickness. Manufacturers use these factors to control fabric quality, durability, and appearance. This guide explains their connection and practical application in production.
Relationship Between GSM and Yarn Count
GSM and yarn count have an inverse relationship. Finer yarns (higher count) generally produce lighter fabrics, while thicker yarns (lower count) create heavier fabrics. However, factors like knitting density and fabric type also play a role.
GSM and Yarn Count in Different Fabrics
Single Jersey and Rib Fabric
Yarn Count | Single Jersey GSM | Rib GSM |
---|---|---|
18s | 220-230 | 280-290 |
20s | 200-220 | 260-280 |
24s | 180-190 | 240-250 |
26s | 160-170 | 230-240 |
28s | 150-160 | 220-230 |
30s | 140-150 | 200-220 |
34s | 120-130 | 180-200 |
Interlock and Lycra Single Jersey
Yarn Count | Interlock GSM | Lycra S/J GSM |
34s | 250-270 | 190-200 |
36s | 230-250 | 180-190 |
38s | 200-210 | 160-170 |
40s | 190-200 | 150-160 |
Fleece Fabric and Double Lacoste
Yarn Count | Fleece GSM | Double Lacoste GSM |
34s+34s+10s | 260-270 | 240-260 |
30s+34s+10s | 280-290 | 220-240 |
28s+30s+10s | 290-300 | 200-220 |
26s+30s+10s | 310-320 | 180-200 |
24s+30s+10s | 340-350 | 160-180 |
GSM to Thickness in mm Calculator
Ounce to GSM Calculator: How to Convert Fabric Weight
GSM to Pounds Calculator
Yarn Count to GSM Calculator [All Fabric]
GSM calculation by Course and Wales
Interlock Fabric Yarn Count from GSM Calculator
Rib Fabric Yarn Count from GSM Calculator
Single Lacost Fabric Stitch Length Calculator
Lacost Fabric Yarn Count from GSM Calculator
S/J Fabric Stitch Length Calculator
Pique Yarn Count from GSM Calculator
Single Jersey Fabric Yarn Count from GSM Calculator
Dewsbury Count to Ne Count Calculator
Nm to Lea calculator
Tex to Ne Calculator
Deci-tex to Tex Calculator
Ysm count to Ne Calculator
Dews Count to Ysm Count Calculator
Worsted Count to Ne Calculator
Lea to Ne Calculator
English Count Ne to Tex Calculator
Denier to Tex Calculator
Ne to Denier Calculator
Tex to Deci Tex Calculator
English Count Ne to Wollen Count Ysm Calculator
English Count Ne to Wollen Count Dewsbury Calculator
Woollen Count Dewsbury to dews (wollen count ysw) Calculator
English count Ne to Worsted Count Calculator
Lea to Nm Calculator
Ne to Lea Calculator
English Count Ne to Matric Count Nm Calculator
Tex To Denier Calculator
Denier to Ne Calculator
Fabric Gsm To Thickness Calculator
Kg To Gsm Calculator
Mm To Gsm Calculator
Fabric Gsm To Mm Calculator
Fabric Gsm To Lbs Calculator
Lbs To Gsm Calculator
Fabric GSM Calculator (Grams Per Square Meter)
GSM to KG Calculator
mm to GSM Calculator
Fabric GSM Calculator From EPI and PPI
What is GSM in Fabrics?
GSM refers to the fabric’s weight per square meter. It directly influences the feel, thickness, and durability of textiles. Higher GSM fabrics are denser and heavier, while lower GSM fabrics are lighter and more breathable.
Factors Affecting GSM
- Yarn Count – Thicker yarn increases GSM.
- Fabric Structure – Rib, interlock, and fleece fabrics have higher GSM than single jersey fabrics.
- Fiber Type – Cotton, polyester, and blended fibers affect weight.
- Knitting or Weaving Density – More stitches or weaves per inch result in higher GSM.
What is Yarn Count?
Yarn count measures the thickness of yarn, expressed in Ne (English cotton count) or Nm (metric count). A higher yarn count means finer yarn, while a lower count represents thicker yarn.
Common Yarn Count Systems
- Ne (English Count) – Used in cotton spinning; higher numbers indicate finer yarn (e.g., 40s is finer than 20s).
- Nm (Metric Count) – Measures length per gram; higher values mean finer yarn.
- Tex and Denier – Tex represents weight per 1,000 meters, and denier is commonly used for synthetic fibers.
How to Calculate GSM from Yarn Count
Manufacturers estimate GSM using the following calculators:
GSM = (Yarn Count Factor × Stitch Density × 100) / Fabric Width
Where:
- The yarn Count Factor depends on fiber type.
- Stitch Density is stitches per square inch.
- Fabric Width is measured in inches.
This calculation helps adjust machine settings for desired fabric weight.
Practical Applications in Textile Manufacturing
1. Choosing the Right Yarn Count for Fabrics
- T-shirts and casual wear – 160-220 GSM with 24s-30s yarn count.
- Heavy winter wear – 280-350 GSM with 18s-24s yarn count.
- Sportswear and Lycra blends – 160-200 GSM with fine yarn counts (30s-40s).
2. Adjusting GSM for Fabric Performance
- Breathability – Lower GSM for lightweight apparel.
- Durability – Higher GSM for stronger fabrics.
- Softness – Finer yarns create smoother fabric surfaces.
3. Quality Control in Production
Textile engineers maintain fabric consistency by monitoring yarn count and GSM, adjusting knitting parameters, and performing weight tests.
Conclusion
GSM and yarn count determine fabric weight, feel, and application. A balanced approach ensures textiles meet industry standards for durability and comfort. Understanding these factors helps textile manufacturers optimize production and fabric quality.