Making an I-cord is one of those things that seems mysterious and difficult until you now how to do it. I waited a long time to sit down and make an I-cord because it always sounded kind of scary to me, probably because it involves double-pointed needles, which I'm not too keen on.
The good news is that making a I-cord is really quick and easy, and you can use them for all sorts of things, from the strap of a bag to hair accessories.
How to make I- Cord
I-cord is a simple knitting technique that
creates a very narrow tube of knitting that looks a bit like French
knitting.
Cast
on the
number of stitches desired or called for by a pattern with double
pointed needles.
Between three and five is normal.
Knit one
row. Do
not turn the work.
Slide the stitches to the other end of the
needle.
Knit a second row by bringing the yarn behind
the work and starting with the first stitch. Tug the work from the
bottom after each first stitch to help it to take shape and to even
out the tension.
Repeat
steps 3 and 4 until desired length is achieved.
It'll start to take shape after 3/4 rows.
I-cords is great because once you've made one, you'll start thinking of all sorts of uses for them. Here are just a few ways you might use them:
Strap or handles for a purse or bag.Straps for a knitted shirt or dress.
Use it as a belt.
Make a headband
Sew the cord together to make a flower, a spiral, or some other shape you can use on another knitted project.
Use as a tie for a hoodie or in place of elastic in a hem.
Here is a link to a video showing how to make i- cord http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jcGj6tpqeJA
Enjoy!
