I don't know for sure - this is just a guess - but I think that CT can keep the prices lower because they have the batiks made to their specs and then sell direct through their internet site rather than through quilt stores or other sites. I think their product is very good. It may be thinner than some, but it's better than most others. I don't like the really thick batiks (got some of those long ago from JoAnn's). The ones from CT have a good feel.