Choosing fabric for quilting: understanding fibre and GSM
Quilting fabric choice affects accuracy, durability, and finish. Learn which fabric fibres work best for quilting, what GSM means, and how to choose the right w
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Choosing the right fabric is one of the most important steps in quilting. Even with accurate cutting and careful piecing, the wrong fabric weight or fibre can make quilting more difficult than it needs to be.
Quilting fabric is often described simply as “cotton,” but not all cotton fabrics are the same. Understanding fabric fibre and GSM helps you choose fabric that is stable, accurate, and enjoyable to work with.
This guide explains the best fabric materials for quilting and how GSM affects your finished quilt.
What does GSM mean in quilting fabric?
GSM stands for grams per square metre. It measures how much a piece of fabric weighs and gives an indication of thickness and density.
In quilting, GSM affects how the fabric:
- Handles during cutting and sewing
- Holds its shape over time
- Feels once layered with batting and backing
Fabric that is too light may stretch or distort, while fabric that is too heavy can feel stiff and bulky.
The best fabric fibre for quilting
The most widely used and recommended fabric for quilting is 100% cotton, specifically quilting cotton.
Quilting cotton is woven to be stable, with minimal stretch. This makes it ideal for accurate cutting, consistent seam allowances, and neat piecing.
Why 100% cotton works best for quilting
- Stable weave with little stretch
- Presses cleanly and holds seams well
- Durable for long-term use and washing
This reliability is especially important when multiple fabric pieces need to align precisely.
Ideal GSM range for quilting cotton
Most high-quality quilting cottons fall within a specific GSM range.
- Ideal range: approximately 140–155 GSM
- Lighter than 140 GSM: may feel thin or prone to distortion
- Heavier than 155 GSM: may feel stiff or bulky in layered quilts
Within this range, fabric remains easy to sew while providing enough structure for precise patchwork.
Fabrics to avoid for quilting (especially for beginners)
- Stretch fabrics or jersey
- Loose-weave cottons or lawn
- Polyester or synthetic blends
These fabrics behave differently under the needle and can stretch, shift, or press unpredictably, making accurate piecing more difficult.
Does higher GSM mean better quality?
Not necessarily. While extremely lightweight fabrics are often less suitable for quilting, higher GSM does not automatically mean higher quality.
Quality also depends on:
- Thread count
- Weave consistency
- How well the fabric presses
A good quilting cotton balances weight, stability, and ease of use.
How fabric choice affects your finished quilt
Choosing the right fabric fibre and GSM helps your quilt:
- Lie flat during piecing
- Maintain shape after washing
- Feel balanced once quilted and bound
It also supports other essential skills such as cutting accurately, sewing consistent seams, and pressing effectively.
Start with reliable quilting cotton
If you’re new to quilting, choosing a good-quality quilting cotton within the recommended GSM range removes unnecessary challenges.
Once you’re comfortable with the process, you can experiment with other fabrics—but strong foundations always begin with the right materials.
Next steps
Understanding fabric fibre and GSM makes quilting more predictable and enjoyable. Combined with accurate cutting, consistent seam allowances, and careful pressing, the right fabric choice helps every quilt come together beautifully.