The Versatile I-Cord: Techniques, Uses, and Creative Possibilities

If you’re a knitter, you’ve probably heard the term “i-cord” before. But do you actually know what it is, how to make it, and what you can use it for?

I-cord, short for “idiot cord” (a term coined by Elizabeth Zimmermann), is a simple tube of knitting that’s often used for edgings, ties, and even as a decorative element.

It’s incredibly versatile and easy to make, but many knitters overlook it in favour of more complex techniques. In this blog post, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about i-cords: what they are, how they are made, and what can be made with them.

So what is an I-Cord?

An I-Cord, short for “idiot cord” due to its simplicity, is a knitted tube that is typically made using just a few stitches. It creates a sturdy, rounded cord with a multitude of uses in knitting projects. Its smooth, uniform appearance and structural integrity make it a popular choice for edging, handles, and decorative accents in various knitting designs.

All of these techniques allow for easy customisation of the i-cord’s length and color, making it a useful tool for any knitting project. I use eco-friendly and sustainable yarns which look stunning when knitted into i-cords.

Let’s look at each of these in a bit more depth.

Loom knitting

Looms are round or rectangular shaped and they have pegs on them. The yarn is wrapped around the pegs and then knitted off to make the i-cord.

Spool knitter

There are different types of spool knitter, including –

• Knitting Nancy
• Home made spool knitter
• I-cord knitting machine

Knitting Nancy

The traditional knitting nancy is made of wood and has 4 pegs on the top which the yarn is wrapped around to make the i-cord. As the i-cord grows it can be pulled down the knitting nancy to keep the stitches consistent.

Home made spool knitter

During the Covid pandemic, I was tasked with creating a video for my students to help them during their time at home. The logical thing for me was to show how to make an i-cord.

You can make a basic i-cord spool knitter with an empty loo roll tube, some lolly sticks and tape or glue.

Simply stick the lolly sticks on the tube at equal distances, and then you have your very own home made spool knitter.

I-cord mechanised knitter

f you’re looking for a fast way to make i-cords, you can invest in an i-cord mechanised knitter. These machines are designed to produce perfectly even and consistent cords with minimal effort. You cast on the pegs and then crank the handle round and round to produce the i-cord.

1. Laces: I-cords are perfect for creating laces for shoes and trainers. Their durability ensures that your laces won’t stretch out of shape over time. The best yarn to make laces i-cords is organic cotton as it is strong and knits tightly together.
2. Jewellery: I make i-cords and transform them into bracelets, necklaces and brooches. I add wooden buttons as an embellishment to my creations.
3. Belts: I remember getting ready for work one day and not having a belt for my dress. I quickly knocked up an i-cord belt with T-shirt yarn and just my fingers!
4. Lanyards: Replace traditional nylon lanyards with eco-friendly i-cord lanyards that are great for the planet, and look quirky on.
5. Skinny scarves: Thicker yarns look great in skinny scarves, especially when finger knitted!
6. Drawstrings: I-cords can be made into drawstrings for waistbands or for cinching bags. They provide both functionality and style.
7. Decorative Elements: Use I-Cords as decorative embellishments on hats, scarves, and other accessories such as shawls and neck warmers. They can form loops, spirals, or zigzags to add visual interest.
8. Hair Accessories: A mechanised i-cord knitter is great to make a quick hair tie with.
9. Rugs and Coasters: For larger-scale projects, I-Cords can be stitched together to make rugs, coasters, or trivets. They add thickness and durability.
10. Home Decor: I love making home accessories that look unique and add an element of interest to a room.

Why I love i-cords

I create i-cords a lot. I think they are fun, look amazing, and are very versatile.

I-cords can add a unique and polished touch to your outfit, and to your home.

If you would like to have a go at making an i-cord, head to the Raffy & Bee Resource Hub for more information!