Understanding Denim Weights: Denim Weight Conversion Tool (2024)

No item fabric is more synonymous with American culture as denim. It has a rich history and is embedded in popular culture. A bi-product is we still use American weights and measures when describing denim material - which can be confusing for us Brits! Use this tool to help figure out the difference between and 4oz and 12oz and how best to use them.

Denim Weights Conversions

1oz = 34 gms

This is about the weight of the paper used to print an average newspaper. Today’s news is tomorrow’s fish and chip paper, not quite heavy enough for denim.

2oz = 68gms

Getting more like average printer paper, still not a denim weight. Some super light linings can come in sub-100 gsm (2oz).

3oz = 102gms

About the weight of a lightweight polycotton or lining.

4oz = 136 gms

4oz denim and chambrays are great for the summer months, think lightweight shirts, summer dresses and crafts.

5oz = 170 gms

Lightweight denim is easy to sew and great for shirts, skirts and jackets. If it has a bit of elastane for stretch, then why not give a pair of leggings a go.

6oz = 203 gms

Sitting out in the summer months, a 200gsm (6oz) shirt or shorts would help to keep cool. About the weight of a t-shirt fabric.

7oz = 237 gms

Lightweight trousers, not really what you would know as jeans but a lovely summer alternative.

8oz = 271 gms

A nice weight for Spring or Autumn where you're not quite as commited to your summer wardrobe. Nice for lightweight trousers, blazers and suits.

9oz = 305 gms

A light weight denim to create a lightweight pair of trousers or a heavier style shirt.

10oz = 338 gms

According to the Levi's denim dictionary, 10oz is still considered a lightweight denim, suitible for warmer weather styles but will be more durable than the lighter lightweights.

11oz = 373gms

In the all-year-round bracket for suiting, lighter weight jeans, jackets and crafting projects.

12oz = 407 gms

Levi's consider 10.5oz to 12.5oz as midweight denim. Most their jeans are in that bracket including the famous 501s.

13oz = 441gms

Weight categories are not precise and relative to what you're used to using but to many 13oz is considered as the start of the heavyweight category. A great weight for durable jeans and warm jackets.

14oz = 475gms

Heavyweight jeans for those who need durability. Useful for structured garments and heavyweight jackets.

16oz = 542gms

More challenging to sew but great for a heavyweight jacket or a structured garment.

17oz = 576 gms

Outdoor wear for cooler climes.

18oz = 610gms

Heavy fabric for heavy jeans, there is a fan base out there for denim which can be rough and uneven with a vintage look.

19oz = 644gms

We're really talking about a super heavyweight category here. The weight of the cloth will pull the piece down allowing it to drape but cab be rigid.

20oz = 678gms

20oz denim is heavy! Not to everyones tast but is still very much a jeans weight.

21oz = 712gms

21oz denim is really heavy! Not to everyones tast but is still very much a jeans weight.

22oz = 746 gms

22oz denim is rough and kinda uncomfortable to wear as trousers. Good for upholstery and other interiors projects though.

23oz = 780gms

22oz denim is really rough and actually uncomfortable to wear as trousers - but some people love it! Good for upholstery and other interiors projects.

24oz = 814 gms

You can buy 24oz denim jeans but it really is a niche persuit. Heavy, rough and difficult to wear in. Probably better suited to upholstery projects.