Comparable in quality to Spechler-Vogel's Imperial Broadcloth, Empress Broadcloth is a high quality, 60"-wide, 65% polyester/35% combed cotton, wash-and-wear fabric from Robert Kaufman Textiles. I've used both Imperial and Empress for years and have found no difference between the 2 fabrics in quality or durability. The basic smocking fabric, broadcloth pleats and smocks easily. Price is price per yard.