If you've spent any time looking at blank apparel, you've probably seen the term GSM thrown around. 180gsm. 220gsm. 350gsm. But what does it actually mean and why should you care? Let me save you some Googling.

What is GSM?

GSM stands for grams per square metre. It's basically how much a single square metre of the fabric weighs. The higher the number, the heavier and thicker the fabric. Simple as that.

It's one of the most useful things to know when you're choosing a blank because it tells you a lot about how the garment is going to feel, how it's going to wear, and how it's going to hold up after a hundred washes.

Lightweight (under 180gsm)

Think breathable, drapey, floaty. Great for summer, great for layering, great for anything where you want the garment to feel almost like nothing. The trade-off is durability — lighter fabrics tend to wear out faster and can feel a bit flimsy if the quality isn't there.

Our Jersey Tee 305 and Raglan Tee 306 sit at 160gsm. They're light but the GOTS organic cotton means the quality is still there. Really popular for summer merch and anything worn in warm climates.

Mid-weight (180gsm to 220gsm)

This is the sweet spot for most people. Heavy enough to feel substantial, light enough to wear year round. It's where you'll find the majority of our tees and it's where most brands land when they want something that looks good, lasts well, and prints beautifully.

Our Simple Tee 302 is 180gsm and our Slouch Tee 303 is 220gsm. The Slouch Tee is probably our most popular blank and that extra weight is a big part of why. It just feels premium. You pick it up and you know.

Heavyweight (300gsm and above)

This is sweater and hoodie territory. Thick, warm, structured. When someone puts on a heavyweight fleece and goes "oh wow" that's the GSM doing its job. These fabrics take longer to make, cost more, and are genuinely worth it if you want something that lasts for years not months.

Our sweaters and hoodies sit between 350gsm and 420gsm. The Womens Slouch Sweater 202 is 350gsm French Terry and the Longline Hoodie 301 is 420gsm. Pick them up side by side and you can feel the difference immediately.

Does higher GSM always mean better?

Not always. It means heavier and usually more durable, but a 160gsm tee made from quality combed organic cotton will outlast a 200gsm tee made from poorly processed fabric. GSM is one piece of the puzzle. The fibre quality, the construction, the finishing — it all matters.

That's actually why we list the GSM on every single product page. We want you to know exactly what you're getting before you order. No surprises.

Quick guide

Under 180gsm: summer tees, breathable basics, lightweight layering pieces.

180 to 220gsm: everyday tees, year round merch, the range most brands live in.

300gsm and above: sweaters, hoodies, anything you want to feel genuinely premium and warm.

Still not sure what weight is right for your project? Come into the showroom in Cooroy and feel them in person — that's honestly the best way to decide. Or get in touch here and we'll point you in the right direction.

Browse the full range at mindfulmerch.com.au.