An I cord edge makes a nice, tidy edge for shawls. The Aglea shawl uses this edge and calls it SSE (slipped stitch edge).
It’s pretty simple to work, and I’ll show you how.
This edge is worked over 3 sts and 2 rows.
If you want an I cord edge on a shawl that doesn’t have it, just replace the edge (usually garter stitch or seed stitch) with these 3 stitches. So, if the shawl has a 5-stitch garter edge, you would subtract 5 from the CO and then add 3 to it (so, -5+3 = -2 or CO 2 less sts).
How to knit the I Cord Edge
RS row: Work your shawl per pattern, then, k1, sl1 wyif, k1 (here are those 3 sts I talked about).
WS row: Sl1 wyif, k1, sl1 wyif (the 3 sts again), work to end per pattern.
Then, knit the next stitch. Move the yarn to the front and slip the next stitch purlwise AGAIN.
Basically, you’re knitting each st once over every 2 rows. On the opposite row, they’re slipped purlwise with yarn in front.
How it looks
Here’s what it looks like after a bunch of rows are worked.
And here’s the edge.
See? Tidy and easy. Give it a try on your next shawl. Just remember it uses 3 sts. If your shawl has a garter st border, this edge would replace it. So, remove the garter sts and add 3 sts for the I cord edge (see the note above for a bit more detail).
Thanks for this tutorial.
I’d seen this technique described in patterns before, but didn’t know it had a name. It’s sparked a few design ideas, so I’m hoping something will come of it!
Awesome!
It’s more often called an Icord edge if you’re looking for other patterns.
Wonderful tutorial. I can’t wait to use it on one of my queued projects!
It’s such an easy way to add a little polish!