Applied I-Cord Edging
Applied I-cord adds a continuous I-cord edging to a finished piece by knitting the I-cord and joining it to the edge in one continuous operation. Used to finish blankets, shawls, and any flat piece that benefits from a structured border.
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Setup
Cast on 3 stitches at one corner of the piece, using the cable cast on. Use a circular or DPN.
Method
Knit 2 of the I-cord stitches. Knit the third I-cord stitch together with one stitch from the edge of the piece (using ssk or pick-up-and-knit). Slide the 3 stitches back to the right end of the needle and repeat.
In partnership Tools and supplies that make this technique easier.
Around corners
At each corner, work 2–3 plain I-cord rounds without joining to the edge — this gives the corner a small "bump" of slack that allows it to turn cleanly without puckering.
Joining
When the cord meets the start, graft the live stitches to the cast-on stitches with Kitchener stitch for an invisible join. Or sew them down on the wrong side for a faster (but visible) join.
Abbreviation reference
| Abbreviation | Meaning |
|---|---|
| DPN | double-pointed needle |
| ssk | slip slip knit |
Tips
- Use ssk (not k2tog) for the join — it leans the join toward the body.
- Add 2–3 plain rounds at each corner to allow clean turning.
- For an invisible join at the start/end, graft with Kitchener stitch.
In depth
Applied I-cord adds a clean, structural border to a flat piece by knitting the I-cord directly onto the edge stitches. The result is a continuous tubular edging that finishes the piece and prevents curling — particularly useful for stockinette baby blankets and shawls.