T Shirt Fabric Consumption Calculator (Kg)

Formula

We use this formula to calculate fabric weight per T-shirt:

Fabric Consumption (Kg/Pc) = [(Length × Width × GSM) ÷ 10,000] ÷ 1000

1. Length: Body length of the T-shirt (in cm)
2. Width: Chest width × 2 (in cm)
3. GSM: Fabric weight per square meter
4. Divide by 10,000 to convert to square meters
5. Divide by 1000 to get the value in kg

As a textile engineer and fashion designer, I work closely with knit fabrics every day. In the garment industry, fabric is the highest cost component. So, I always calculate fabric consumption accurately before sampling or bulk production. T-shirt fabric consumption plays a key role in costing, planning, and order negotiation.

What Is Fabric Consumption for a T-Shirt?

Fabric consumption means the amount of fabric used to make one T-shirt. It depends on size, GSM, fabric width, and wastage. If we calculate fabric per piece correctly, we can control fabric usage in cutting and reduce fabric cost.

Real-Life Example from a Knit Garments Factory

Let’s say I receive an order for men’s size L basic T-shirts. I measure the sample:

• Length: 70 cm
• Width: 50 cm
• GSM: 160
• Wastage: 8%

Now, I apply the formula:

= (70 × 100 × 160) ÷ 10,000 ÷ 1000  
= 1.12 ÷ 1000 = 0.112 Kg  
Including 8% wastage: 0.112 × 1.08 = 0.121 Kg per T-shirt

So, one T-shirt uses 0.121 Kg or 121 grams of fabric.

How Many T-Shirts Can Be Made from 1 Kg?

I always reverse the formula to find output per kg:

1 ÷ 0.121 = 8.26 T-shirts

So, from 1 kg of 160 GSM knit fabric, we can make about 8 T-shirts. This is helpful when planning knitting or buying fabric.

Factors That Affect Fabric Consumption

1. GSM of the Fabric

Higher GSM means heavier fabric. A T-shirt made from 180 GSM fabric will consume more fabric than one made from 140 GSM.

2. T-Shirt Size

Larger sizes consume more fabric. A size S may need 0.10 kg, while size XXL may need 0.14 kg.

3. Fabric Type

Jersey knit, rib knit, or interlock fabric behaves differently. Rib is stretchier and tighter. It may affect yield.

4. Sleeve Length

Short-sleeved T-shirts consume less than long-sleeved ones. Raglan sleeves also change consumption.

5. Cutting Wastage

I always add 5% to 10% to cut wastage. Round figures help avoid shortages in bulk.

How Merchandisers Use This Calculation

As a merchandiser, I prepare cost sheets based on fabric consumption. My costing includes:

• Fabric price per kg
• Fabric used per piece (in kg)
• Wastage percentage
• Print or embroidery loss

Let’s say fabric costs $6/kg. If each piece uses 0.121 kg:

Fabric Cost = 0.121 × $6 = $0.726 per T-shirt

This cost goes into the full FOB price calculation.

Consumption Table (Based on Size and GSM)

Values include 8% wastage.

Tips for Reducing Fabric Wastage

1. I always use marker planning software to save fabric.
2. I avoid overcutting by using correct patterns.
3. I suggest fabric width based on style and cutting ratio.
4. I reduce print margin or side trimming.
5. I advise checking GSM regularly from the lab.

Latest Trends in T-Shirt Fabric Consumption

I follow industry changes to reduce fabric use:

• Brands now use recycled polyester and organic cotton with lower GSM.
• Slim fits need less width and length.
• Many factories use automatic cutting machines to reduce human error.
• I see more use of fabric consumption calculators in mobile apps and online tools.

Final Words from My Experience

I always say that a good merchandiser or engineer must know fabric consumption. A small error can lead to fabric shortage or cost increase. Accurate consumption makes pricing, planning, and delivery smoother.