The I-cord BO, or i-cord bind off is a decorative bind off. It finishes your bind off edge with an i-cord which creates a neat finish.
How to work an I-cord BO
Abbreviations:
BO – bind off
k – knit
k2tog-b – k2tog, through the back loop
Rep – repeat
Cast on: Cast on 2 stitches (or desired number).
Set up: Slip the cast on stitches to left needle.
Repeat: *K3, slip those 3 stitches back to needle. K2, k2tog-b. Slip 3 stitches back to left needle. Rep from * until all stitches on left needle have been worked.
Finishing: Use left needle to (pull second stitch over first) 2 times. Cut yarn and pull through.
Pattern Specific Variations to I-Cord Bind Off
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.
I-Cord Bind Off Variation for Tangiers
Set up: K2, incR. 3 sts on right needle
Slip the 3 stitches to left needle.
*K2, k2tog-b. Slip 3 stitches back to left needle. Repeat from * until all stitches on left needle have been worked.
Use left needle to (pull second stitch over first) 2 times. Cut the yarn and pull through the last stitch.
