How to Knit an I-cord

Ever wanted to know how to knit an i-cord? 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.

Table of Contents

About the Knit I-cord

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

How can you use an i-cord? 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

Knit I-cord Video:

How to Knit an I-cord Written Instructions:

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 the 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.