Your development decision
Keep GSM, grams per linear metre and imperial units distinct; retain the original value and width basis when converting.
Area and length units differ
GSM describes grams per square metre. Grams per linear metre describes a metre of fabric at a stated width. A linear-weight value is incomplete for an area conversion until that width is known.
Use the same width basis
For a rectangular cloth, grams per linear metre equals GSM multiplied by width in metres. Ask whether the original weight uses total width or another defined basis. Do not substitute usable width if the declared measurement uses total width.
A calculation example, not a product
An educational cloth at 300 GSM and 1.50 metres total width would weigh 450 grams per linear metre: 300 × 1.50 = 450. Reversing the calculation gives 450 ÷ 1.50 = 300 GSM. These values do not describe a supplied Fred reference.
Clarify imperial descriptions
Ounces per square yard and ounces per linear yard have different dimensions. Ask which unit was intended and the width used for a linear value. Do not compare two ounce numbers until their unit definitions match.
Keep net cloth separate from logistics
Packing weight, roll cores, transport allowances and cutting losses are not the net cloth mass in this conversion. Keep these in the relevant shipment or costing fields. A width conversion also does not estimate garment yield.
Retain the source value
Record original value, unit, stated width and source, then the converted number and calculation. If width is unknown, keep conversion unresolved. Ask Fred to confirm the basis in the quotation and specification.
A practical development example
A quotation gives grams per linear metre while the technical pack uses GSM. Keep the quotation’s original number and ask for its width basis. Divide by that width in metres only when the basis is confirmed. Leave a conversion blank if width or unit remains unknown.
Working review record
Scroll the table horizontally on small screens.
| Review point | What to record | Next decision |
|---|---|---|
| Original weight value and unit | Record the actual value, conditions and source | Keep this point open until reviewed |
| Total-width measurement basis | Record the actual value, conditions and source | Keep this point open until reviewed |
| Calculated area or linear value | Record the actual value, conditions and source | Keep this point open until reviewed |
| Quotation unit and net cloth scope | Record the actual value, conditions and source | Keep this point open until reviewed |
Before the next sample round
- Original weight value and unit
- Total-width measurement basis
- Calculated area or linear value
- Quotation unit and net cloth scope
- Record the reviewer, date and next action