GEMMA Variegated Egyptian Cotton Thread, Size 16 – ISPE

GEMMA Sfumato Filo di Scozia by ISPE – Makò Giza 83 Cotton, Size 16

100% Mercerized Egyptian Makò Cotton | 50g – 416m | Fine crochet hook 1–1.25mm

📋 Key features

• Composition100% mercerized, combed, gas-singeed Egyptian Makò Giza 83 cotton
• Ball weightApprox. 50g
• LengthApprox. 416 meters
• SizeSize 16
• Recommended crochet hook1–1.25mm
• WashingWithstands temperatures up to 60°C
• Ideal forDoilies, lace, trims, tablecloths, table runners
• Approximate yield1 medium doily (ø 30cm) per ball

🧵 The yarn

ISPE's GEMMA Sfumato Size 16 Filo di Scozia is a premium yarn made from 100% Egyptian Makò Giza 83 cotton, one of the finest cottons in the world. Designed for those looking for a fine yet durable thread, it's perfect for creating doilies, lace and decorative trims with a luminous, refined finish. The gradient version features carefully selected color transitions that complement home interiors elegantly.

Each 50g ball offers an impressive 416 meters of yarn, providing excellent yield for intricate decorative projects. It is worked with a 1–1.25mm crochet hook, ideal for fine work that calls for precision and detail. The anti-pilling treatment keeps the yarn smooth and even, even after repeated washing.

🧬 Technical composition: why it works

Makò Giza 83 cotton is grown along the banks of the Nile and is distinguished by its extra-long fibers, which ensure wear resistance and lasting durability. The long fibers create an even yarn without knots or thick spots—essential for fine work where every imperfection would show. This makes GEMMA ideal for lace and doilies that need to hold their shape even after many washes.

The mercerization process enhances cotton's natural sheen, giving the yarn a silky, silk-like appearance. Gas singeing removes surface fibers, making the thread smooth and easy to work with, while the anti-pilling treatment prevents fuzz from forming, keeping your work looking impeccable over time. These combined processes make GEMMA a superior-quality Filo di Scozia yarn.

📦 Ball size and yield

At 50g and 416 meters long, one ball of GEMMA Size 16 is enough to make a medium doily (approx. 30cm in diameter) or a decorative trim about 2 meters long. For larger projects such as tablecloths or bedspreads, allow around 8–10 balls for a standard tablecloth (120x160cm), depending on stitch complexity.

For projects requiring multiple balls, we recommend buying the full quantity you need in one order: color lots can vary slightly between production runs, especially in gradient versions. This helps ensure consistent color throughout the finished piece.

🧶 Recommended technique

Size 16 is worked with a 1–1.25mm crochet hook, a fine size that creates compact, well-defined stitches, ideal for filet crochet, lace and decorative work where detail is essential. This is finer than Size 12 (1.25–1.5mm hook) and requires greater precision, but the finished result is more refined and delicate, perfect for heirloom linens and high-quality home décor.

If you're new to Filo di Scozia, we recommend starting with Size 12 or 8 to get used to the yarn, then moving on to Size 16 for more ambitious projects. GEMMA glides smoothly over the hook thanks to its gas-singeing, making even complex stitches such as fan stitch or pineapple stitch easier to work.

✨ Why choose GEMMA Sfumato Size 16

Compared with other Size 16 Filo di Scozia yarns on the market, ISPE's GEMMA stands out for its Giza 83 cotton, a superior grade to standard Egyptian cotton. Many budget Filo di Scozia yarns use short-staple cotton that tends to pill; thanks to its long fibers and anti-pilling treatment, GEMMA stays smooth even after dozens of washes—a real advantage for doilies and tablecloths that are washed frequently.

The gradient version adds extra appeal: its color transitions are designed to create refined effects without having to change balls, making it perfect for modern doilies or table runners that blend tradition with contemporary design. The result is an elegant piece that naturally complements your home.

🎨 What you can make

Size 16 is the ideal yarn for elegant doilies, decorative lace for towels and sheets, refined trims for tablecloths, placemats and sofa or table runners. It's also perfect for filet crochet, a traditional technique that creates geometric or floral designs using a regular sequence of double crochet stitches and chain stitches. The fine weight of Size 16 allows for precise details and a lace-like finish.

👩‍🎨 Who it's for

Size 16 is recommended for intermediate to advanced crocheters: the fine yarn and 1–1.25mm hook require precision and good hand control. If you've already worked with Size 12 or 8 and are looking for a more refined challenge, GEMMA Size 16 is the ideal next step. It isn't recommended for complete beginners, who may find working with such a fine hook frustrating.

This yarn is typically chosen by enthusiasts of traditional crafts, artisans who make commissioned heirloom linens, and anyone looking for quality yarn for projects made to last. The gradient version also appeals to those who enjoy experimenting with modern color effects while preserving traditional crochet techniques.

🧼 Care and maintenance

• WashingMachine washable up to 60°C
• BleachingAvoid harsh bleach
• Spin cycleGentle spin cycle recommended
• DryingLay flat to dry; do not tumble dry
• IroningIron at medium heat if needed
• StorageStore in a dry place, away from direct light

📌 Important note

📊 Technical specifications summary