I-Cord Cast On
The I-cord cast on creates a built-in I-cord along the bottom edge of a project. It is the cast-on twin of the I-cord bind off and produces matched I-cord borders on top and bottom.
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Method
Cast on 3 stitches using any cast on. Knit 2. Slip the next stitch knitwise, knit the next stitch from the left needle, and pass the slipped stitch over (this is one cast-on stitch added). Slide all 4 stitches back to the right end of the needle. Repeat.
Compared to other cast ons
Slower than long-tail or knitted cast on but produces a structural, decorative edge from the start. Useful for blankets, scarves, and shawls where the bottom edge is on display.
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Pairing
Pair with the I-cord bind off for matched top and bottom borders. Pair with applied I-cord around the sides for a fully I-cord-bordered piece.
Tension
Pull the working yarn tight on the first few stitches to close the cord. The cord should look like a tube once 5–10 stitches have been added.
Abbreviation reference
| Abbreviation | Meaning |
|---|---|
| CO | cast on |
| k | knit |
Tips
- Use the I-cord cast on with the I-cord bind off for matched borders.
- For a thicker cord, use 4 stitches instead of 3.
- Pull the working yarn tight on the first few stitches to close the tube.
In depth
The I-cord cast on creates a small I-cord tube along the cast-on edge by knitting an I-cord whose third stitch becomes the new cast-on stitch on each round. The result is a structural edging built directly into the cast on.