It is most likely 100% cotton indeed. The problem is that the add a lot of sizing in order to guarantee that the markings will come off when you wash it (the marks don't penetrate the fibers). It becomes more flexible and easier to work with as you play with it. The more you re-hoop, fold it and unfold it, the easier it is to work with it. Also, if you store for a long time before touching it is a lot easier to handle.