Crochet an I-cord
Crocheting an I-cord is incredibly useful, offering a versatile technique that allows you to crochet thin tubes.
For amigurumi, this simple, yet effective method allows you to create tiny tube shapes that are thinner and cleaner with less twist than whip stitching a chain and rows of single crochet. For crocheters with dexterity issues, it may be easier than crocheting a magic ring with only a few stitches in each round.
Additionally, mastering the I-cord technique helps improve your skills in tension control and stitch consistency, ultimately elevating your overall crochet proficiency.
Materials Needed
Yarn of your choice
Corresponding crochet hook
Scissors
Tapestry needle for weaving in ends
Learn more on the Tools & Materials page →
Instructions
Start a Chain
Chain (ch) 3
Insert hook into the 2nd ch from the hook
Yarn over and draw up a loop
Insert hook into the next ch
Yarn over and draw up a loop. You will now have 3 loops on your hook.
Complete Rows
Drop two loops from the hook and pinch these two loops tightly with your non-hook hand. Be careful they don’t twist or the stitches may be uneven.
Yarn over and draw through the loop left on your hook
Insert into the first dropped loop (closest to the hook), yarn over and draw through the loop. You will now have two loops on the hook.
Insert into the second dropped loop, yarn over and draw through. You will now have three loops on the hook.
Repeat for the desired number of rows.
Finish
Once you’ve completed the desired number of rows you’ll have three connected chains, with three sets of V’s, that create a tube.
To finish with a point, cut the yarn leaving a long tail, yarn over and pull through all three loops and pull tight.
To finish keeping the tube shape, with the three loops on the hook, slip stitch (sl st) through each loop, fasten off, and use the yarn tail to stitch the first and last sl sts together into a circle.
If you’re not using the yarn tails to attach to another piece, weave the tails through the center of the I-cord.
Try an I-cord On a New Project
Use an I-cord as an alternate method for Cupid’s arrow or Sappy’s handle.
Love is in the air, and Cupid is here to make sure it sticks! This intermediate pattern is for those ready to take aim at a more detailed project that’s sure to capture hearts. He’s a little matchmaker with a lot of charm, perfect for adding a touch of romance to a shelf or gifting to your favorite sweetheart. Don’t worry about being struck by his arrow—the only thing you’ll be falling for is your next completed stitch!
Difficulty: ➀ ➁ ➌ ➃ ➄
See below for materials and techniques required to complete this pattern.
Syrup is one of the four main food groups, so of course Pal the Elf needs this sweet buddy Sappy the Maple Syrup is the perfect beginner(ish) amigurumi companion for Pal's holiday adventures.
Difficulty: ➀ ➋ ➂ ➃ ➄
See below for materials and techniques required to complete this pattern.
