How To Knit I Cord

How to Knit an I-Cord: A Beginner's Guide to This Versatile Stitch

The i-cord, also known as a knitting cord, is a wonderfully versatile stitch. It's incredibly simple to knit, but produces a strong, round cord perfect for a multitude of projects. From adding beautiful detailing to sweaters and scarves to creating unique embellishments or even entire items, the i-cord is a must-have technique for knitters of all levels. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, equipping you with the skills to create this useful stitch.

Getting Started: Materials and Preparation

Before diving into the knitting process, you'll need a few essential items:

• Yarn: Choose your favorite yarn weight. While any weight will work, fingering or DK weight yarn often produces the most pleasing results.
• Knitting Needles: You'll need needles appropriate for your chosen yarn weight. Size isn't as crucial as the type – double-pointed needles (DPNs) are highly recommended for this technique for superior control and the creation of a truly round cord. However, using a single needle works as well, though the finished product will be less round.
• Scissors: For cutting your yarn.
• Yarn Needle: For weaving in the ends.

The Knitting Process: Step-by-Step Instructions

The i-cord is knitted using only three stitches. Here's how it's done:

1. Casting On:

• Cast on three stitches using your chosen method (long-tail cast-on is recommended for a neat start).

2. Knitting the First Round:

• Knit the first two stitches.
• Slip the third stitch purlwise. This is crucial for creating the characteristic round shape of the i-cord.

3. Knitting Subsequent Rounds:

• This is where the magic happens. Here's the repeating pattern:
  • Knit two stitches.
  • Slip the third stitch purlwise.
  • Carefully slide the slipped stitch from the left needle to the right needle, then slide all the stitches from the right needle to the left.

4. Continuing the I-Cord:

• Repeat step 3 until your i-cord reaches the desired length. Remember to maintain consistent tension throughout.

5. Binding Off:

• To finish your i-cord, simply knit two stitches and slip the last stitch purlwise. Cut the yarn, leaving a tail of at least 6 inches.
• Thread the tail onto your yarn needle and weave it through the remaining stitch on the left needle, tightening gently to secure. Weave in the ends securely.

Tips for a Perfect I-Cord

• Consistent Tension: Maintaining consistent tension throughout the entire process is vital for creating a uniform and attractive i-cord.
• Needle Choice: While you can use a single needle, DPNs are strongly recommended for a more perfectly round cord.
• Yarn Weight: Experiment with different yarn weights to see which you prefer.
• Practice Makes Perfect: Don't get discouraged if your first attempt isn't flawless. The i-cord is a simple technique, but it does require a little practice to master.

Expanding Your I-Cord Skills: Beyond the Basics

Once you've mastered the basic i-cord, you can explore more advanced techniques:

• Varying the Yarn: Experiment with different colors and textures to create visually stunning effects.
• Adding Beads or other embellishments: Incorporate beads or other embellishments into your i-cord for a unique and personalized touch.
• Creating I-Cord Laces: Use multiple i-cords to create beautiful and intricate laces.

The i-cord is a remarkably versatile knitting technique with endless possibilities. With a little practice, you'll be creating beautiful and functional i-cords for all your knitting projects! Happy knitting!