An i-cord is a small tube of knitting, knit using two DPNs. I-cords are often used for edging, trim, or embellishment. I wrote the basics of how to knit an i-cord in a variety of sizes here. Though the basic i-cords is knit in stockinette stitch, there are a variety of decorative I-cords you can knit.
Note: All I-cords must be knit using DPNs or circular needles.
Decorative I-cords, like the Ridged I-cord and the Seed Stitch I-cord, can be used in place of standard I-cords. The I-cord Button can be used to create buttons for any knitting project, and the Applied I-cord can be used to add a decorative I-cord edging to your knitting.
Ridged Decorative I-cords
Row 1: Push stitches to right end of needle. wyib, bring yarn to front to purl, then purl all stitches.
Row 2: Push stitches to right end of needle. wyib, knit all stitches.
Rep Rows 1 and 2. Each repeat creates a ridge.
Seed Stitch Decorative I-cords
Row 1: Push stitches to right end of needle. *k1, p1, rep from *.
Row 2: Push stitches to right end of needle. *p1, k1, rep from *.
Rep Rows 1 and 2.
I-cord Button
Casting on: Cast on four stitches.
Creating I-cord:*Without turning needle, push stitches to the right end of the needle, knit. Continue from * for 3.5″.
Binding off: slip 1 stitch, k2tog, use tip of left needle to pull second stitch over k2tog and off the needle. Cut yarn and pull tail through.
Finishing: Tie I-cord in a knot. Thread yarn tail onto a tapestry needle and secure ends into knot.
Applied I-cord
Casting on: With RS facing you, cast 3 stitches onto a dpn or circular needle.
Creating I-cord:*With yarn in back, pick up a stitch at edge of piece being trimmed. 4 sts. Push the 4 stitches to the right end of the needle and k2, k2tog-b; repeat from *.
Note: Keep tension loose enough and the number of stitches picked up appropriate so your edge lies flat.
Pattern Specific Variations to Decorative I-Cords
Sometimes, I include technique variations that are for specific patterns. I always include directions for specific techniques in the pattern itself, so be sure to also read any patterns you’re working on closely.
Applied I-cord Variation for Jupiter’s Rings Merino Ribbon
Casting on: With RS facing you, cast 2 stitches onto a dpn or circular needle.
Creating I-cord: *With yarn in back, pick up a stitch at edge of piece being trimmed. 3 sts. Push the 3 stitches to the right end of the needle and k2, k2tog-b; repeat from *.
Note: Keep tension loose enough and the number of stitches picked up appropriate so that your edge lies flat.
Applied I-cord Variation for Jupiter’s Rings Euroflax
Casting on: With RS facing you, cast 2 stitches onto a dpn or circular needle.
Creating I-cord: *With yarn in back, pick up a stitch at edge of piece being trimmed. 3 sts. Push the 3 stitches to the right end of the needle and k2, k2tog-b; repeat from *.
Note: Keep tension loose enough and the number of stitches picked up appropriate so that your edge lies flat.
