Silk Momme Weight Explained And How To Choose It

What Momme Actually Measures

Momme, written mm, is the traditional weight unit for silk. One momme converts to 4.3056 grams per square metre, so 16 momme silk weighs about 69 grams per square metre and 22 momme weighs about 95. The higher the momme, the heavier the cloth and the higher the price.

Common Weights By Product

Silk is normally woven in 12, 14, 16, 19, 22, 25 and 30 momme, with lighter and heavier ends outside that range. Clothing is most often made in 16, 19 and 22 momme. Scarves usually run 12, 14 and 16 momme. Pillowcases are made in 19, 22, 25 and 30 momme.

Why Weight Changes The Drape

The same weave behaves differently at different weights. An 8 momme chiffon floats and gathers; an 18 momme twill holds a fold and hangs straight. If a design depends on volume, going heavier will flatten it, and going lighter will make a structured piece collapse.

Choosing A Weight For Printing

Heavier silk carries more ink and holds fine pattern detail with less bleed, which is why large detailed artwork tends to look better on twill or charmeuse than on chiffon. Lighter weights suit airy prints and soft gradients.