About This Stitch

The I-cord was an accidental discovery by Elizabeth Zimmermann, which is why she originally named it the Idiot Cord. But what she discovered was nothing less than brilliant.

Elizabeth Zimmermann contributed so many amusing patterns to the knit world with a care-free and fun attitude. See more of her works in Elizabether Zimmermann’s Knitting Workshop.

What can an I-cord be used for? So many things! From bag straps to bonnet ties and more. I-cords are very useful. 

Supplies:

• Knitting Needles: You will need 2 dpn’s, they can be any preferred size that works with yarn choice.
• Yarn Needle
• Scissors

Yarn Used:
• Bulky weight or yarn of choice.

Skill Level:
• Beginner

Many of the supplies can be found at the affiliate links below:

Step 1:

To begin cast on 3 stitches. This can be done with more than three stitches but for this example, we will start with 3.

Step 2:

Slide the stitches to the right side of the needle.

Step 3:

With the working yarn coming across the stitches on the back from left to right, knit these 3 stitches.

Step 4:

Repeat steps 2 and 3 until the desired length of the i-cord is achieved.

Step 5:

When you are ready to finish off the i-cord, knit through the back loops of the first two stitches on left needle.

Step 6:

Place the stitch on the right-hand needle back onto the left-hand needle. 

Step 7:

Knit through the back loops of the first two stitches on the left-hand needle again. If you are working with more than 3 stitches repeat steps 5-6 until on stitch remains on right-hand needle. 

Step 8:

Break yarn and pull through the loop. With a yarn needle, weave end through the center of I-cord and fasten off, repeat with beginning tail. 

Enjoy making lots of I-cords! They have so many uses and can become a staple in your knitting adventures. 

Want to try this out?

Want to give it a try with a fun project? The Animal Print Knit Bag Pattern uses an I-cord for the fun red strap.

Click on the image to be taken to the Animal Print Knit Bag.