I’m a loose knitter, and I met gauge with size 9 needles. I added one extra repeat for 3” extra in width.

Cotton Fine can be a tricky, but there are really helpful tips here: https://www.dandoh.com/yarn/cotton-fine

My takeaways:

1. wind your hanks using a swift; I would NOT recommend winding by hand
2. pull your yarn from the outside, and gently stuff the inside with something soft to prevent tangles
3. this ones important: join ends using magic knot!