Yarn Bee Pima Suprema Yarn
Our Yarn Bee Pima Suprema is crafted from 100% Pima cotton, one of the finest long-staple cottons available. Each skein delivers exceptional softness, superior drape, and a lustrous finish that elevates every project.
Pima cotton fibers are longer and stronger than standard cotton, creating yarn that resists pilling and holds its shape beautifully wash after wash. We source our Pima cotton carefully to ensure consistent quality and unmatched hand feel in every colorway.
Ideal for garments worn close to the skin, baby blankets, summer tops, shawls, and any pattern where drape and breathability matter. This DK weight yarn works up quickly on size 5-6 needles or a G-6 hook, making it perfect for both knitters and crocheters who value natural fiber luxury.
- 100% Pima cotton for superior softness and strength
- DK weight (3) • 153 yards per 50g skein
- Recommended needle size US 5-6 (3.75-4mm)
- Recommended hook size G-6 (4mm)
- Machine washable cold, tumble dry low or lay flat
What is Pima cotton and why it matters
Pima cotton represents the top tier of cotton fiber worldwide. Grown primarily in the southwestern United States and Peru, Pima cotton features extra-long staple fibers that measure significantly longer than conventional cotton varieties.
These longer fibers create smoother, stronger yarn with a natural luster and exceptional durability. When you work with Yarn Bee Pima Suprema, you’ll notice the difference immediately in how the yarn glides through your fingers and how beautifully your stitches bloom once blocked.
Gauge and project recommendations
Achieving the perfect gauge
We recommend knitting a 4×4 inch swatch at 22-24 stitches and 28-30 rows on US size 5 or 6 needles. For crochet, work a swatch with a G-6 hook to gauge approximately 18-20 single crochet stitches per 4 inches. Always block your swatch to see how Pima Suprema blooms and drapes.
Best projects for Pima Suprema
This yarn shines in patterns that showcase drape and movement. Consider summer cardigans, flowing tunics, lace shawls, baby layettes, market bags, and lightweight throws. The soft and sleek texture makes it especially beautiful for garments worn against bare skin.
Color selection and dye lot considerations
Our Yarn Bee Pima Suprema collection includes over 40 colorways ranging from essential neutrals to vibrant jewel tones and soft pastels. Each color is carefully dyed to ensure even saturation and colorfastness.
We recommend purchasing enough yarn from the same dye lot to complete your project, as natural variations in cotton and dyeing can create subtle differences between lots. Check the dye lot number printed on each ball band and order an extra skein for larger projects to avoid running short.
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Common questions about Pima Suprema yarn
Pima Suprema uses extra-long staple Pima cotton fibers that are significantly longer and stronger than standard cotton. This creates yarn with superior softness, better durability, and a natural luster that regular cotton yarns can't match.
The longer fibers also mean less pilling, improved colorfastness, and exceptional drape. You'll notice the quality difference immediately when working with the yarn and especially after blocking your finished project.
Yes, with needle size adjustments you can successfully substitute Pima Suprema in lighter weight patterns. Use a needle one or two sizes smaller than recommended for DK weight to achieve a tighter gauge similar to sport weight.
Always knit a gauge swatch first and block it to see how the fabric behaves. Many knitters intentionally use larger needles with Pima Suprema to create an even drapier fabric for garments and shawls.
Absolutely. Pima Suprema is machine washable in cold water on a gentle cycle and can be tumble dried on low heat. The high-quality Pima cotton fibers resist shrinkage and maintain their shape beautifully through repeated washing.
For items you want to last generations, we recommend laying flat to dry or using low heat. The yarn actually softens with each wash while maintaining its structural integrity and color vibrancy.
A typical adult pullover in DK weight requires approximately 1200-1500 yards depending on size and pattern complexity. For Pima Suprema's 153 yards per skein, plan on 8-10 skeins for most adult sweaters.
Cardigans generally need 10-12 skeins due to button bands and fronts. We always recommend purchasing an extra skein beyond pattern requirements to account for gauge variation, swatching, and potential repairs down the line.
Pima Suprema excels at colorwork due to its excellent stitch definition and even tension. The smooth fiber creates clean color transitions without fuzzy blending, making patterns pop with clarity.
The yarn's strength means you can strand it on the back of your work without worrying about breakage. Many colorwork enthusiasts prefer cotton over wool for warm-weather garments, and Pima Suprema delivers professional-looking results in both knitted and crocheted colorwork techniques.
We recommend US size 5-6 (3.75-4mm) needles for knitting and a G-6 (4mm) crochet hook. These sizes typically yield a fabric with good drape while maintaining enough structure for garments.
For lacework or items where you want maximum drape, try going up to a size 7 needle. For items needing more structure like bags or placemats, drop down to a size 4. Always swatch at your chosen size and block to verify your fabric meets project needs.
Pima Suprema offers a cooler, smoother hand feel than superwash wool with superior breathability for warm weather. While wool has natural elasticity and memory, Pima cotton provides exceptional drape and a fluid fabric that moves beautifully.
Cotton won't felt and doesn't require the same careful washing as untreated wool. Many knitters who are sensitive to wool or who live in warm climates prefer Pima cotton's comfort and easy care. The choice comes down to whether you prioritize warmth and stretch or coolness and drape.