I’ve realised something recently… I use i-cord edges a lot.
In fact, in my latest design I’ve added them to the armholes, neckline and side slits—and I didn’t even think twice about it. It just felt like the right finish.
And I think that’s the thing with i-cord. Once you start using it, it quietly becomes one of your go-to techniques.
So what is it about i-cord?
For me, it’s all about the finish.
It gives you that lovely, neat, rounded edge that just behaves. No flaring, no messy edges, no wondering if it needs “something else”—it already looks complete.
I especially love it on:
- necklines (it frames them beautifully)
- armholes (adds structure without bulk)
- shawls and scarves (hello, polished edges!)
- and even side slits, where it gives a really professional touch
It’s one of those small details that makes a big difference.
A quick bit of knitting history
If you’ve ever wondered about the name—i-cord was popularised by Elizabeth Zimmermann, who apparently called it “idiot cord” because it was so simple.
Which feels about right… until you try it for the first time and think, wait… why am I not turning my work?!
If i-cord hasn’t quite clicked yet…
You are absolutely not alone.
This is one of those techniques that often makes more sense when you see it rather than read it. And sometimes it takes watching it a couple of different ways before it really clicks.
Here are a couple of really good tutorials I recommend:
Have a watch with your knitting in hand—it makes all the difference.
Patterns that use i-cord (if you want to try it out)
If you fancy giving it a go, here are a few lovely patterns where i-cord really shines:
They’re all great for seeing how i-cord works in a real project (and not just in isolation!).
|
