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Manufacturing Guide

What Is Jersey Fabric? A Simple Guide

Learn what jersey means, what GSM means and how to choose a fabric.

2026-10-307 min read
What Is Jersey Fabric? A Simple Guide

Jersey means knitted cloth.

Fiber

What it is made of.

GSM

How heavy the cloth is.

Sample

Feel it before buying.

Choose for your sport. Heavier is not always better.

Get a Team Quote

Tap what you need

Jersey is a knit, not one fiber

Think of a shirt like food: the fiber is the ingredient. The knit is how it is put together.

  • Cotton jersey uses cotton fibers.
  • Polyester jersey uses polyester fibers.
  • A blend mixes fibers.

Two fabrics called “jersey” can feel very different.

Close view of knit structure
Close view of knit structure.

Compare the cloth, not just the name

Cloth typeSimple meaningCheck on a sample
Single jerseyA common jersey knitStretch, feel and how much shows through
InterlockA double-knit structureFeel, weight and shape
MeshA fabric with small openingsHole size, coverage and snagging
RibA knit with raised linesStretch and return to shape

Mesh is a structure. Polyester is a fiber. A fabric can be both.

Mesh and interlock fabric samples
Mesh and interlock fabric samples.

What does GSM mean?

GSM means grams per square meter. It measures fabric weight.

Example weightWhat it tells you
140 GSMOne square meter weighs 140 grams.
180 GSMOne square meter weighs 180 grams.
220 GSMOne square meter weighs 220 grams.

These are examples, not a Spenix stock list. More weight does not always mean better cloth.

Does GSM tell me the shirt’s total weight?

No. Shirt size, panels, trims and packing also add weight.

GSM made simpleExample: a piece of 180 GSM fabric measuring one meter by one meter weighs 180 grams.1 meter1 meter180 GSM fabricThis piece weighs180 gramsExample only. Not a stock fabric claim.
GSM = the weight of one square meter of fabric.

Try the fabric before you buy

  • Feel it against the skin.
  • Check it in light. Can you see through it?
  • Stretch it, then let go. Does it return?
  • Check a sample with the real print or badge.
  • Ask for care notes.

For sweat control, odor claims or wash test scores, ask for test proof. Do not guess from touch alone.

Designers reviewing a jersey panel
Designers reviewing a jersey panel.

Estimate order weight

Need a rough shipping weight? Use the fabric weight, cloth area, trims and packing for your order.

Open the fabric weight calculator

The starting numbers are examples. Change them to match your order. This is not a freight quote.

Estimated gross mass: 27.10 kg

For print choices, read how sublimation works and sublimation vs embroidery.

Fabric preparation at a cutting table
Fabric preparation at a cutting table.

Send a clear fabric brief

  • Sport and garment.
  • Fiber blend and target GSM.
  • Sizes and total pieces.
  • Print, logo and label needs.
  • Your budget and needed date.

A good sample helps you choose. A clear tech pack helps the supplier make the same thing.

Quick questions

Is all jersey fabric cotton?

No. Jersey can use cotton, polyester or a blend.

Is mesh the same as polyester?

No. Mesh describes the structure. Polyester names a fiber.

Is heavier fabric always better?

No. Choose it for the sport, fit and feel you need.

Does soft fabric prove it wicks sweat?

No. Ask for test proof if that feature matters.

Need team uniforms?

Send your sport, quantity and date.

We reply within 12 hours.

Samples, prices and order options

Need uniforms for your team?

Send us three things:

Your sport

What do you need?

Your quantity

How many pieces and sizes?

Your date

When and where do you need them?

Sample guide7–10 days
Order minimum guide50–100 pieces
ReplyWithin 12 hours

Confirm timing, minimums and fees for your item in the quote.

What should I send for a quote?
  • Sport and garment.
  • Total pieces and sizes.
  • Logo, names and numbers.
  • Target price per piece.
  • Delivery place and date.

Use the form below. Step 2 has space for your details and design files.

Can I upload a logo or sketch?

Yes. The form accepts PDF, JPG, PNG, AI or PSD. You can send two files, up to 10MB each.

Ask for a digital mock-up in Project Details. Confirm design costs and changes before work starts.

Need exact colors? Send the color reference and approve a real sample.

How do I compare bulk prices?
QuantityAsk for
50 piecesPrice, minimum and sample fee
100 piecesSame cloth, print and packing
500+ piecesVolume price and delivery plan

These are quote sizes, not a price list. Ask for the full total, including shipping and any extra charges.

How does a custom order work?

Ask

Share your brief.

Review

Check the quote and design.

Approve

Sign off the sample and details.

Make

Use the agreed checks.

Ship

Check packing and delivery.

Ask the team to confirm the steps and dates for your order.

What checks should I ask for?
CheckKeep a record
FabricFiber blend, weight and color
FitExact size chart and sample
PrintLogo, names, numbers and color
SewingSeams and finish
PackingPieces by size and carton

Need a test report or inspection? Ask for the document that covers your fabric and order.

Labels, shipping and repeat orders
  • Ask about neck labels, tags, bags and barcodes.
  • Tell us if sizes or delivery addresses are mixed.
  • Ask for production time and travel time separately.
  • Check sample credit, defect and reorder terms.
  • Request an NDA before sharing private designs.
  • Ask for proof if recycled fabric or a certificate is required.

Rush slots, price locks and special terms must be agreed for your order.

Open the full quote form · Call Spenix

Sources and care notes

By Spenix Sportswear. Follow the item’s label and approved product instructions.

Plan your custom order

Tell us your product and quantity, add specifications or artwork, then send your contact details. Ask about a fabric sample or digital proof in Project Details.

Step 1 of 3: Your product

We reply within 12 hours. No spam, no shared data.

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