Definition of Broadcloth

Click here for the UK English version

Fibre: Cotton and silk, and rayon. Very different than wool broadcloth.

Weave: Plain weave and in most cotton broadcloths made with a very fine crosswise rib weave.

Characteristics: Originally indicated a cloth woven on a wide loom. Very closely woven and in cotton, made from either carded or combed yarns. The filling is heavier and has less twist. It is finer than poplin when made with a crosswise rib and it is lustrous and soft with a good texture. Thread count ranges from high quality 144 x 6 count down to 80 x 60. Has a smooth finish. May be bleached, dyed, or printed; also is often mercerised. Wears very well. If not of a high quality or treated it wrinkles very badly. Finest quality made from Egyptian or combed pima cotton - also sea island.

Uses: Shirts, dresses, particularly the tailored type in plain colours, blouses, summer wear of all kinds.

Definition of Broadcloth

Click here for the US English version

Fibre: Cotton and silk, and rayon. Very different than wool broadcloth.

Weave: Plain weave and in most cotton broadcloths made with a very fine crosswise rib weave.

Characteristics: Originally indicated a cloth woven on a wide loom. Very closely woven and in cotton, made from either carded or combed yarns. The filling is heavier and has less twist. It is finer than poplin when made with a crosswise rib and it is lustrous and soft with a good texture. Thread count ranges from high quality 144 x 6 count down to 80 x 60. Has a smooth finish. May be bleached, dyed, or printed; also is often mercerised. Wears very well. If not of a high quality or treated it wrinkles very badly. Finest quality made from Egyptian or combed pima cotton - also sea island.

Uses: Shirts, dresses, particularly the tailored type in plain colours, blouses, summer wear of all kinds.