Determining the weight of the fabric you need or want, for a certain pattern can be a challenge when shopping for fabrics, especially when shopping online. To help you interpret the fabrics and their weights on our website, you can use the information below.

Very lightweight fabrics are between 0-135 gr/m²
Types of very lightweight fabrics: voile, gauze, silk chiffon, silk georgette
Suitable for: lingerie, tops, dresses and skirts

Lightweight fabrics are between 135-235 gr/m²
Types of lightweight fabrics: double gauze, viscose, chambray
Suitable for: tops, dresses and skirts, flowy pants

Medium fabrics are between 235-375 gr/m²
Types of medium weight fabrics: french terry, linen, tencel twill
Suitable for: tops, bottoms, dresses, and light outerwear

Heavy fabrics are between 375-475 gr/m²
Types of heavy weight fabrics: wool tweed, corduroy
Suitable for: pants, structured skirts and dresses, outerwear

Very heavy fabrics are between 475-640 gr/m²
Types of very heavy weight fabrics: boiled wool, denim
Suitable for: pants and outerwear

What factors determine the weight of fabrics?

Thickness of the thread it’s made of, the composition, the density of the weave or knit and the dyeing or printing process are the main factors that determine how light or heavy weight a fabric is.

In general you can say that the lighter the fabric in weight, the more drapey it will be. The heavier the weight, the more resistant and opaque it will be. But that is not always the case. For instance our cotton poplin is lightweight (135 gr/m²) but stiff, while our Tencel Jersey is heavier (215 gr/m²) but very supple.

Weight isn't everything

When picking you fabric we advise you to consider weight of the fabric, but also taking into account its drape, stretch, breathability, softness, sheerness etc. This complete picture will determine what fabric is perfect for you and the sewing pattern you are going to make.

Everybody has their own preference and ideas of what the finished garment should look like. So be creative and keep all the characteristics of the fabric in mind, but don’t let it determine your style or vision.

For example: you can make the Persephone pant is a non-stretch fabric like our 9oz twill, but also in a soft Tencel twill that does have some stretch. Both beautiful but completely different outcome when it comes to the look of the finished garment!

Want our help?

We are always happy to think with you and help decide which fabric is your ideal fabric for that certain sewing pattern. So feel free to send us a DM on Instagram or an e-mail via hi@ecofashionfabrics.com.

When interpreting please keep in mind:

• Weight does not tell you how thick a fabric is. Fabrics with different weaves and fibers but with the same weight may not have the exact same thickness.

• The quality is not always determined by the weight of a material.

• Comfort is important! Do you like wearing garments with stretch? No stretch? Do you love heavy weight denim that’s dense and sturdy and you have to wear in? Or do you prefer a lighter weight denim twill that will be more comfortable from the start.