ITO Gima 8.5 Cotton Yarn (Discontinued)
Sometimes you want your fabric to convey a little more, to have subtle structure, texture, or that unexpected hand feel. ITO Gima 8.5 does just that: a crisp, lace-weight cotton with a flat, paper-like quality that softens beautifully over time, adding dimension and interest to every project.
The New Year Sale discount applies to in-stock items only. Backorders are not eligible for the sale price.
You’ve probably worked with soft cottons that blend into the background, nice enough, but a little flat when your vision calls for something more tactile. It’s frustrating when your stitches look fine, but the fabric just doesn’t feel alive. You want to create pieces with more edge, more presence, without sacrificing usability.
That’s where this yarn shines. ITO Gima 8.5 offers something delightfully different: a crisp, almost linen-like feel that transforms with each wash and wear. It holds structure in a way most cottons won’t, making it ideal for designs that play with negative space, layering, or contrast. And as the fabric softens and evolves, so does your connection to what you’ve made.
It’s more than just cotton; it’s a creative experience. With each piece, you’ll build something tactile, expressive, and genuinely personal. It’s the kind of yarn that invites curiosity and adds quiet confidence to your making journey.
Not sure which colours to get? Purchase an ITO Gima Sample Card to see your options. Sample cards are recommended for true colours.
Key Features & Benefits
- Paper-like texture – Crisp, flat touch mimics linen for unique structure and surface
- Softens with use – Gains fluidity and softness over time without losing its character
- Lace weight – Fine enough for intricate, detailed work in knitting, crochet, or weaving
- Adds visual depth – Flat ply creates interesting fabric texture, even in simple stitches
- Light and breathable – 100% cotton is cool, comfortable, and wearable
Versatile colour range – Beautifully dyed and perfect for subtle or statement designs
1 x 25g ball of ITO Gima 8.5 Cotton Yarn
- Fibre: 100% Cotton
- Yarn Weight: Lace
- Yarn Count: Nm not provided (approximate equivalent of lace weight)
- Unit Weight: 25g ball
- Length: 212m / 231 yds
- Gauge: 31 stitches per 10cm
- Needle Size: 2–2.5mm (US 0–1)
- Suggested Sett: 28–32 epi
- Care: Hand wash only
ITO Gima 8.5 has a unique flat, tape-like structure that gives it a crisp, paper-like texture. While it feels firm initially, it softens with washing and wear, making it an interesting choice for lightweight projects. Its structure adds a modern, slightly structured drape to garments and accessories.
The yarn’s flat, ribbon-like shape creates a fabric with a distinct, airy texture. When used in knitting or crochet, it produces a lightweight and breathable fabric with excellent stitch definition. This makes it ideal for structured garments, summer tops, scarves, and lacework that benefit from a crisp finish.
Yes, ITO Gima 8.5 is an excellent choice for summer wear due to its breathable nature. The cotton fiber and the yarn’s airy structure allow for comfortable, cool garments that drape well. It works especially well for tops, shawls, lightweight cardigans, and accessories designed for warm weather.
This yarn can be worked in a single strand for a fine, delicate fabric or held double for a denser effect. The tape-like shape can create a slightly stiff fabric initially, but it relaxes with washing. It holds shape well, making it ideal for projects requiring a structured look.
The recommended needle size for ITO Gima 8.5 is 2.0 mm (US 0), though the gauge may vary depending on the desired fabric. For looser, more open textures, larger needles or hooks can be used. Swatching before starting a project is always recommended to achieve the desired drape.
Hand washing in lukewarm water with a mild detergent is recommended to maintain the yarn’s quality and prevent excessive wear. Avoid wringing or twisting the fabric. Lay items flat to dry, shaping them as needed. This care routine helps preserve the unique structure and longevity of the yarn.
Each 25g ball contains approximately 212 meters (231 yards) of yarn. This generous yardage makes it a cost-effective choice for lightweight garments and accessories, as a few balls can go a long way in creating a finished piece. Swatching helps determine how much yarn is needed for specific projects.
Unlike traditional round cotton yarns, Gima 8.5 has a flat, paper-like structure that sets it apart. It provides a unique combination of crispness and softness, giving projects a distinctive, contemporary appearance. Its breathability and ability to hold shape make it a great alternative to standard cotton yarns for summer wear.
Yes, Gima 8.5 pairs well with other yarns to create interesting textures and color effects. It can be held together with a soft wool or silk yarn to add warmth and dimension. Blending it with other fibers can also alter its drape, making it more versatile for different project styles.
This yarn is ideal for lightweight summer garments such as tops, tunics, and shawls. Its crisp texture also makes it suitable for structured accessories like market bags and scarves. Additionally, it works well for lace patterns, openwork designs, and minimalist, modern pieces where stitch definition is important.