When it comes to choosing the right T-shirt for screen printing, one term you’ll see a lot is GSM—but what does it mean, and why does it matter?
In this guide, we’ll explain what GSM is, how fabric weight impacts printing quality, and how to choose the perfect cotton T-shirt for your next custom project.
What Does GSM Mean in T-Shirts?
GSM stands for grams per square meter, and it refers to the weight of the fabric. A higher GSM number means a heavier and thicker fabric, while a lower GSM means the shirt is lighter and more breathable.
For example:
- 180gsm = lightweight cotton T-shirt
- 220gsm = medium-weight, all-purpose T-shirt
- 300gsm = heavyweight premium T-shirt
At Guoya, we offer T-shirts ranging from 180 to 300g/sm, giving you full flexibility to match your printing and usage needs.
Why GSM Matters for Screen Printing
The fabric weight of a T-shirt plays a big role in how well your screen-printed design looks and lasts.
✅ Heavier T-shirts (220gsm–300gsm)
- Hold ink better and show colors more vibrantly
- Less likely to stretch or distort over time
- Ideal for retail, fashion brands, and premium products
✅ Lightweight T-shirts (180gsm)
- More breathable and comfortable for warm climates
- Perfect for events, giveaways, or sportswear
- Budget-friendly for bulk orders
Choosing the right GSM ensures your final product meets both visual quality and functional comfort standards.
How to Choose the Right Fabric Weight for Your Project
Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:
| GSM Range | Best Use Cases |
|---|---|
| 180gsm | Promotional tees, summer events, large giveaways |
| 200–220gsm | Retail merchandise, uniforms, standard fashion |
| 240–300gsm | High-end fashion, streetwear, cold-weather wear |
Not sure what weight to choose? Guoya provides free samples to help you feel the difference before ordering.
Color and Size Options to Complement Fabric Choice
GSM isn’t the only factor. The color and size range of your base T-shirt also impact the final result.
At Guoya, we offer:
- 26 vibrant colors to match any design or brand palette
- Sizes from S to 6XL for full inclusivity
- High-quality 100% cotton material for optimal print clarity and ink absorption
Whether you’re a startup brand or a corporate buyer, we have the selection and stock to support your needs.
Speed, Service & Quality You Can Count On
Choosing the right GSM is just the beginning. You also need a supplier that can deliver reliably.
That’s where Guoya Company comes in. We offer:
- 🎁 Free design services to optimize your artwork
- 🧵 Custom cotton T-shirts in multiple weights and colors
- 🚚 3-day proofing and 5-day fast delivery
- 👕 Complimentary samples so you can test before you invest
From lightweight promo shirts to heavyweight fashion pieces, we help you create the perfect printed T-shirt—every time.
Summary
Understanding GSM is essential to making the right decision for your T-shirt printing project. Whether you need lightweight comfort or heavyweight quality, Guoya offers flexible options from 180 to 300gsm, backed by fast service, expert support, and top-notch results.
📩 Contact us today to request free samples or get a personalized quote!
