When we talk about fabrics, we usually pay attention to their color, pattern, texture, and other visual aspects. However, there is one more important factor that can determine the quality, durability, and comfort of a fabric – its grammage. In this blog post, we will explore what the grammage of a fabric is, why it is so important, and how to choose the right grammage for your project.
What is the grammage of a fabric?
Grammage, also known as basis weight or grammatical weight, is a term used to describe the weight of a fabric per unit area. In other words, it refers to the density of a fabric and is measured in grams per square meter (gsm) or ounces per square yard (oz/yd²). The grammage of a fabric can vary depending on its type, weave, fiber content, and finishing processes.
Why is grammage important?
The grammage of a fabric can have a significant impact on its performance, appearance, and cost. Here are some reasons why it is important to consider the grammage when selecting a fabric:
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- Durability: Fabrics with higher grammage are usually more durable and resistant to wear and tear. They can withstand frequent washing and heavy use without losing their shape, texture, or color.
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- Comfort: Fabrics with lower grammage are usually lighter, softer, and more breathable. They can provide better comfort and ventilation, especially in warm or humid climates.
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- Appearance: The grammage of a fabric can affect its drape, texture, and visual appeal. Fabrics with lower grammage are usually more fluid and have a softer hand, while fabrics with higher grammage can have a stiffer hand and more pronounced texture.
- Cost: The cost of a fabric can be influenced by its grammage, as higher grammage fabrics require more raw material, processing, and energy to produce. However, it is important to note that the cost of a fabric is not always proportional to its quality or durability.
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How to choose the right grammage for my collections?
Choosing the right grammage for your project depends on several factors, such as the type of garment, the intended use, and the desired performance. Here are some tips to help you select the right grammage for your project:
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- Consider the type of garment: Different types of garments require different grammages to achieve the desired fit, function, and appearance. For example, a lightweight cotton fabric with a grammage of 120 gsm may be suitable for a summer dress, while a heavy denim fabric with a grammage of 400 gsm may be more appropriate for jeans.
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- Evaluate the intended use: The intended use of the fabric can also affect the choice of grammage. For example, a fabric used for upholstery or outdoor applications may require a higher grammage to withstand abrasion, fading, and weathering.
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- Test the performance: Before selecting a fabric, it is important to test its performance by washing, ironing, stretching, or sewing a sample. This can help you determine if the fabric has the desired strength, shrinkage, resilience, and sewability.
- Check the specifications: The grammage of a fabric is usually indicated on the label or the technical sheet. It is important to check the specifications to ensure that the fabric meets your requirements in terms of grammage, composition, width, and care instructions.
Where to shop fabrics with different grammages?
In Recovo, you can choose from a large selection of fabrics with different grammages. You only have to access our shop, select your desired category of materials, and filter the selection with the weight attributes. Our catalog consists of next-gen fabrics and deadstock fabrics that come from excess productions, as well as pre-order materials that are fabricated through innovative and environmentally-friendly processes, so by using these fabrics you will be promoting sustainability in your collections.
In conclusion, the grammage of a fabric is an important factor to consider when selecting a fabric for a project. It can affect the durability, comfort, appearance, and cost of the fabric, and should be chosen based on the type of garment, intended use, and desired performance. By understanding the role of grammage in fabric selection, you can make informed decisions and ensure that your project turns out exactly as you intended it to. Remember to always test the performance of the fabric and check its specifications before making a final decision. By doing so, you can be confident that the fabric you choose will meet your expectations and help you create a successful project. Plus, by sourcing your materials from Recovo, you can find circular fabrics with your desired grammage that promote circularity in the fashion industry.
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