If you're a knitter, you've probably come across the term "I-cord" at some point. It’s a simple yet versatile technique that can add polish and function to your knitting projects. Whether you're finishing off the edge of a garment, making decorative cords, or crafting small knitted items, the I-cord is an essential skill to master.
In this blog post, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about knitted I-cords, from what they are, how to knit them, to creative ways you can use them in your projects. Let’s get started!
What Is an I-Cord?
The term "I-cord" stands for "idiot cord," a name coined by iconic knitter Elizabeth Zimmermann in the 1980s. Despite its name, the technique is incredibly clever. It’s essentially a narrow tube of stockinette stitch, knit in the round on two double-pointed needles (DPNs) or a circular needle, but without joining the round as you would normally do. The result is a neat, tubular cord.
This simple tube can be used in a variety of ways, from drawstrings to edging, handles for bags, or even as a structural element in larger pieces.
How to Knit an I-Cord
Materials Needed:
Two double-pointed needles (DPNs) or a circular needle
Yarn (any type, though for beginners, medium-weight yarn is easier to work with)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Cast on stitches: Cast on 3 to 6 stitches onto one of your DPNs. The number of stitches will determine the thickness of your I-cord. For a typical, delicate I-cord, 3 or 4 stitches are common.
Knit the stitches: Once you’ve cast on, knit all stitches as normal.
Slide the stitches: Instead of turning your work as you would with regular knitting, slide the stitches to the other end of your needle. Don’t turn your work at all!
Tighten the yarn: Bring the working yarn around to the back of the needle, stretching it tightly across the back of your stitches. The first stitch you knit will naturally tighten the cord, so don’t worry if it feels loose initially.
Repeat the process: Knit all stitches, slide the stitches to the other end of the needle, and repeat. Keep doing this until your I-cord reaches the desired length.
Bind off: When your I-cord is long enough, bind off the stitches as you would normally, pulling the yarn through the final loop and cutting the yarn.
And that’s it! You now have a beautiful, knitted I-cord.
I-Cord Bind-Off
One popular use of I-cord in knitting is as an edge treatment, especially for finishing off the edges of garments or accessories like shawls, scarves, and blankets. The I-cord bind-off adds a neat, rolled finish that looks professional and polished.
Here’s how to do it:
Knit 3-6 stitches: Knit the amount of stitches you want incorporated into your i-cord.
Slip the stitches back: Slip the stitches back to your left-hand needle.
Join edging to project: Knit across all but the last of your i-cord stitches. Knit the last i-cord stitch together with the next stitch from your project (k2tog).
Repeat: Continue this process, slipping the i-cord stitches back to the left-hand needle and knitting the first stitch of the I-cord together with the next project stitch until all the project stitches are bound off.
Finish: Once all project stitches are used, bind off the I-cord itself and weave in the ends.
Common Uses for I-Cord
Drawstrings: I-cords make perfect drawstrings for bags, hoodies, or even as shoelaces. Their sturdy, tubular construction keeps them from unraveling, and they look much nicer than simple twisted yarn.
Bag handles: If you're knitting a tote or purse, you can use I-cords as handles. Double or triple up the cords for extra strength and a beautiful aesthetic.
Decorative trim: The clean, tubular shape of an I-cord makes it ideal for decorative purposes. Use it as edging on blankets, cuffs, necklines, or even to embellish baby garments.
Jewelry and accessories: I-cords can also be used to make necklaces, bracelets, headbands, or decorative embellishments. You can even string beads onto the yarn for added flair.
Tips and Tricks for Knitting I-Cord
Tension matters: The key to a neat I-cord is even tension. Make sure the yarn is pulled snugly when bringing it across the back of your work after each row to prevent gaps.
Experiment with stitch counts: While 3 stitches are the most common, don’t be afraid to experiment. More stitches will give you a thicker cord, while fewer stitches create a more delicate tube.
Colorwork fun: You can also experiment with colorwork in your I-cords. Switch colors every few rows for a striped cord or create gradient effects using multiple colors of yarn.
Splicing yarn: If you’re working with long I-cords and need to join a new ball of yarn, consider splicing the yarn ends to create a seamless join that won’t be visible in the finished product.
I-Cord Alternatives and Variations
If you're feeling adventurous, there are some interesting variations on the traditional I-cord. Here are a few to try:
Applied I-cord: This variation involves knitting the I-cord directly onto the edge of a piece, adding an immediate decorative finish to your project. It’s commonly used for blankets and other items where a clean edge is desired. (Like in the Hashtag Cozy Blanket.)
I-cord in the round: By increasing your stitch count, you can create a wider tube that still maintains the tubular shape of the I-cord, perfect for making stuffed toys or other round items. (This is used frequently in Sarah Schira's Gnome patterns.)
Loom I-cord: For those who prefer loom knitting, you can create I-cords on a knitting loom, which may be quicker than using needles. (Also called Knitting Mills, these i-cord tools are actually really fun for kids to use and create their own knitting if holding the actual needles is too much for them.)
Conclusion
Knitting an I-cord is an essential skill that opens up a world of creative possibilities. Whether you’re looking to add structure, decoration, or utility to your projects, the I-cord is a versatile technique that’s easy to learn but endlessly useful. Whether you're making simple drawstrings or incorporating an I-cord bind-off for a professional finish, this clever technique will soon become a go-to in your knitting toolkit.
So why not give it a try on your next project? Happy knitting! 🧶
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