Knitting with ORTICA

ORTICA (a review)

I’ll admit it — I picked up ORTICA purely for the novelty of nettle fibre. But once I started knitting, I realised it’s so much more than a curiosity. The texture has this gentle wave effect, the colour plays differently in every light, and the fabric feels strong yet comfortable. Now I’m wondering how many of my summer tops I can justify making in it.

My First Impressions

ORTICA is one of those rare yarns that combines ancient textile heritage with modern practicality. Its cotton and ramie (nettle fibre) blend offers a distinctive wave effect, where matte and lustrous surfaces interplay to create fabric with real character. Even before knitting, you can see and feel that this is not an ordinary cotton blend.

Quick Specs

• Composition: 82% Cotton, 18% Ramie (nettle fibre)

• Length / Weight: 105 m / 50 g

• Recommended Needles: 4.0 mm

• Tension: 19 sts / 10 cm

• Tested Projects: Stockinette jumper

• Care: Machine washable up to 30°C, lay flat to dry

Knitting Experience

Knitting with ORTICA feels like working with living history. The ramie fibres behave differently from cotton, producing natural textural variations that form a subtle wave effect in the fabric. The worsted/aran weight works beautifully for showcasing this quality, and every row reveals new, engaging surface details.

Wearing and Performance

The finished fabric is both strong and comfortable. Ramie adds exceptional durability and quick-drying properties, while cotton provides breathability and softness. The interplay of matte and lustrous fibres means the surface seems to shift and change under different lighting, giving even simple garments a sophisticated look.

Where ORTICA Excels

• Sustainable fashion — projects that balance environmental awareness and quality

• Textural statement pieces — garments with natural visual depth

• Heritage-inspired designs — pieces that honour historical textile traditions

• Everyday wear with character — durable and unique without being fussy

Yarn Characteristics

• Wave Effect: Naturally occurring from the cotton/ramie interaction

• Exceptional Strength: Ramie adds resilience for long-lasting pieces

• Climate Adaptability: Hollow ramie fibres provide natural temperature regulation

• Textural Depth: Visual and tactile interest without complicated stitches

Care & Practicality

Machine washable up to 30°C. The wave effect and surface character remain intact after washing, making it a practical choice for everyday garments with a heritage twist.

Value for Money

Given its unique fibre content and historic connection, ORTICA offers excellent value for knitters seeking something special. It’s a rare blend that delivers on beauty, performance, and storytelling.

Final Verdict

ORTICA turns the humble nettle into modern luxury. For those who appreciate yarn with heritage, sustainability, and natural character, it’s a remarkable choice.