Quick answer: Choose the 130gsm quick-dry polyester T-shirt when quick-dry functionality and a lightweight garment are priorities, such as sports or active events. Compare the 200gsm brushed polyester T-shirt when a soft brushed surface and everyday comfort are priorities, such as casual wear and personalized apparel. These are different fabric choices, not simply different thicknesses.
Start with function and hand feel
The 130gsm style uses quick-dry fabric; the 200gsm style uses brushed fabric with a soft surface feel. For an active-use order, consider the quick-dry option. For an everyday clothing range where customers prioritize a soft touch, compare the brushed option. Request samples to assess feel, fit and suitability for your intended use. These descriptions do not establish measured drying times, a cooling rating or a performance comparison between the fabrics.
What does GSM mean?
GSM means grams per square metre of fabric. It is not the weight of a complete T-shirt. At the same fabric area, 200gsm is approximately 54% heavier than 130gsm; actual garment weight also depends on size, cut and construction. GSM does not by itself prove opacity, softness or durability.
Compare the two blanks
| Feature | 130gsm T-shirt | 200gsm T-shirt |
|---|---|---|
| Fabric | 100% polyester, white, quick-dry fabric | 100% polyester, white, brushed fabric |
| Weight per square metre | 130g | 200g |
| Listed kids' sizes | 110–150 | S–3XL |
| Listed adult sizes | S–4XL | S–6XL |
| Starting point for selection | Quick-dry function and lightweight active or event wear. | Soft brushed hand feel for casual and personalized apparel. |
Check the current selector for size availability: 130gsm quick-dry T-shirts and 200gsm brushed polyester T-shirts.
Use each product's own size chart
The size labels are not interchangeable between these two products. In particular, the kids' ranges use different naming systems. Compare the supplied length and chest measurements with a garment that already fits.
The 130gsm chart explicitly lists chest width measured flat, rather than full body circumference. Read each chart's labels and measurement notes before selecting a mixed-size order. For schools, events or staff clothing, make a size-by-size quantity list instead of ordering from age labels alone.
Check your printing workflow
Conventional dye sublimation is suited to polyester and appropriate polymer-coated substrates; see Sawgrass's SubliJet material guidance. White fabric provides a neutral base for the design. Fabric colour can affect the visible result, so do not apply these white-shirt expectations to dark garments.
For a general reference, Sawgrass lists polyester fabric at 205°C / 400°F for 45 seconds with medium pressure. This is a starting reference, not a tested production setting for either SP T-shirt. Test a sample with your own press, ink and paper, and check colour, press marks and fabric appearance before a bulk run. Do not infer a new time simply from GSM.
Separate blank garment prices from custom printing
The 130gsm product sells blank T-shirts. For very large custom orders, an indicative price as low as US$0.50 per piece including printing may be available, subject to quantity and confirmed specifications; it is not the standard small-order price. Its “Custom Printing - Contact Us” option is an inquiry placeholder, not a complete printed-shirt quotation. To request printing, provide quantity by size, artwork, print dimensions, placement and destination. Compare quotations using the same specification and delivery basis.
Frequently asked questions
Will 200gsm print better?
GSM alone cannot answer that. Compare a test print on each fabric using a suitable workflow, along with the look and feel your customer wants.
Does 130gsm mean the shirt weighs 130g?
No. It describes one square metre of fabric, not one garment.
Can I use the same size label for both products?
Use the individual charts. The labels and listed measurements differ.
Start with the 130gsm product or the 200gsm product, compare samples, then build your size breakdown. For fleece garments, see polyester sublimation hoodies.