When we want to make the side edges of our project nice and tidy, it is almost always a good idea to make i-cord selvedges. We discussed this technique as the way #5 in the tutorial about ways to make neat side edges.
Side edges formed by this simple method are uniform. They look good on both sides of the work and do not stretch too much. But, they might look somewhat bulky on projects that do not require additional decoration in the form of an i-cord.
I faced this problem when I was knitting a jacket for my mom a couple of months ago. The front panel was worked in a gorgeous stitch pattern that I found in the book of “250 Japanese Knitting Stitches” by Hitomi Shida. The regular i-cord edging looked too heavy next to the intricate patterning of lovely twisted cables, and that heaviness made the pattern itself seem less elegant.
As I was looking for a better way to make side edges that will be delicate and will look good on both sides (the jacket doesn’t have a closure), I came up with a method that I called a “slim i-cord edging”.
It is a variation of the regular i-cord edging that is thinner and more delicate. It will look great on scarves, blankets, cardigans and any other projects with open side edges.
As you see in the photo below, this edging looks equally good next to various stitch patterns.
I especially like how these selvedges look on a fabric made in ribbing. I picked this method to finish the sleeves of the Everyday Tee and I’m very happy with the result.
Now, that we know how helpful this little technique is, let’s see how we can make slim i-cord edges step by step. If you prefer to follow video instructions, click here.
This edging is worked over two stitches at each side of the work. If you plan to use this type of selvedges, add 4 stitches to the number of stitches you cast on for the project. For example, if the pattern tells you to cast on 50 stitches, cast on 54.
ROW 1
Knit 1 stitch.
Slip 1 stitch with the yarn at the back of the work.
Then follow the instructions in your pattern or work in the stitch pattern of your choice if it is a project you “whip up” without a pattern. Stop when you get to the last two stitches of the row.
Slip 1 stitch with the yarn at the back of the work.
Knit the last stitch.
ROW 2
Bring the yarn to the front of the work and slip the first stitch.
Purl the next stitch.
Work according to the pattern instructions to the last two stitches of the row.
Purl 1 stitch.
Slip the last stitch with the yarn at the front of the work.
Repeat these two rows until your project is finished and enjoy the amazing well-finished look of the side edges.
If you find it difficult to remember what to do when, keep in mind that in a right side row we knit the first and last stitches and slip the stitches next to them. In a wrong side row, we slip the first and last stitches and purl the stitches next to them. That’s how simple it is!
If you enjoyed this tutorial,
here’s something else you might find helpful:
“Neat Side Edges” Book
Learn twelve ways to make side edges of a knitted project nice and tidy. Plus, ways to fix side edges, and a way to improve edges of finished projects.
Happy knitting!
