You specify 180 GSM and the delivered fabric measures 176 or 184. Some variation is normal — here is why, and how tolerance works.
What moves GSM
- Yarn count variation — even small count shifts change weight.
- Construction — actual EPI/PPI or knit density vs planned.
- Finishing — shrinkage, compacting and coating change weight.
- Moisture — fabric weighed at different regain reads differently.
How tolerance works
Buyers and suppliers agree a tolerance band (often a few percent). Consistent yarn count and construction keep you inside it — which is what our quality standards deliver.
Planning for it
Fix count and construction, allow for finishing with the shrinkage calculator, and check weight with the GSM converter and GSM chart.
Need fabric that holds its GSM? We supply count-consistent yarn.
More in our yarn guides.