Private label buyers usually compare heavyweight tees by GSM first, but the better decision is a combination of fabric composition, knit density, fit, shrinkage, wash effect and decoration plan. A good sample brief makes the factory quotation faster and more accurate.
Start with the market position
If the product is a premium retail blank, 280-300gsm is often a strong starting point. If the buyer wants a streetwear flagship product, 300-320gsm can create a more structured silhouette. For warm markets or large merch programs, an overly heavy fabric may reduce wearability and raise shipping cost.
Choose the fit before approving fabric
Regular, oversized, boxy and drop-shoulder fits behave differently in the same GSM. Buyers should confirm body width, shoulder drop, sleeve length, collar width and finished garment length before the sample is approved.
Match fabric with decoration method
Screen print, puff print, embroidery and neck printing each need different surface stability. If the order includes large back artwork, sleeve branding or embroidery, share the artwork file before sample making so the fabric and logo process can be evaluated together.
Ask the factory to confirm these points
- Target GSM and acceptable tolerance after washing.
- Fabric composition, handfeel, shrinkage and colorfastness direction.
- Fit reference, size range and measurement tolerance.
- Logo method, placement size and artwork file format.
- Neck label, care label, hang tag, polybag and carton mark needs.