Any solid color is acceptable for this pattern, being cautious as to colors too dark or too bright as they can hinder the pattern from being fully seen

Needle size is knitters preference. Any needle from US3 to US9 would work and only use about 1 ball of cotton yarn or less.

If you are a loose knitter try using a smaller needle to help your stitches tighten up.

There is no gauge requirement for this pattern