Learn how to make a phone lanyard with I-cord using the Caydo Pro in this easy and practical tutorial. This phone lanyard DIY with I-cord is perfect for creating a durable and stylish strap that you can use every day. Using the Caydo Pro, you can quickly make a smooth I-cord base and then transform it into a stronger, more refined piece with a simple finishing technique.
This project is ideal for beginners and experienced makers who want a quick and satisfying make using minimal materials. Whether you prefer a long crossbody style or a short wrist strap, this phone lanyard is easy to customize to your needs and style.
Table of Contents
Materials You’ll Need for This Phone Lanyard DIY with I-Cord
- Caydo I cord Machine (or any other I cord maker)
- Cotton Thread (https://amzn.to/4cviDHz)
- Heart Keychain with swivel
- Crochet Hook 5 mm and 3 mm
Best Yarn for I-Cord Phone Lanyards
When choosing yarn for your phone lanyard, cotton is one of the best options because it has very little stretch and helps the strap keep its shape over time. This is especially important for something you’ll be using daily, as it gives a more structured and durable feel.
Mercerized cotton works even better, especially for I-cord machines, because it’s smoother, stronger, and glides easily through the needles. For best results, go for a lighter yarn weight, size 3 or less, so the cord forms neatly without jamming the machine.
Acrylic yarns, on the other hand, tend to stretch more with use and can start to pill, creating those little balls on the surface that make the piece look worn out much faster. If you want a clean, long-lasting finish, cotton will give you a much more polished result.
Phone Lanyard Length Guide (Crossbody and Wrist Sizes)
When making your phone lanyard, it’s important to consider that the finished piece will have a bit of give after use, especially once it’s handled and worn.
For the wrist strap, I made mine with 40 cm before folding, which creates a comfortable shorter size once finished.
For the long version, I used 105 cm, which allows for a relaxed fit when worn crossbody.
In terms of yarn usage:
To measure your yarn, you can do it while it’s still on the machine if you don’t want to use the entire skein. This makes it a great project for using up yarn without needing a full skein.
• Long lanyard: around 10 m of I cord
• Wrist strap: about 4 m of I-cord needed
How to Make an I-Cord Using the Caydo Pro
To get started, guide the yarn through the top guide and then through the plastic hole. Using the crochet hook provided, bring the yarn down into the center of the machine. Begin casting on by placing the yarn on the first needle, then skip the next, place it on the third, and skip the fourth. As you do this, move the I-cord button slightly forward so the needles are easier to access.
Once all needles are set, manually turn the button once to create the first row before switching the machine on. Make sure the yarn is sitting correctly on each hook, otherwise the I-cord won’t form properly.
As the machine runs, the I-cord will start forming and coming out from the back. You can simply let it grow to your desired length, checking occasionally to make sure everything is running smoothly.
When you reach your desired length, stop the machine and cut the yarn to remove the stitches from the hooks. Use a tapestry needle to bind off each stitch to secure the end so it doesn’t unravel.
How to Attach Hardware to Your Phone Lanyard
To attach the heart swivel hook, start by using a crochet hook to pull a loop with the I-cord. This will be your starting loop.
Make a slip stitch using the loop and the I-cord tail to secure it in place. Then position the tail to the left and work another slip stitch over it to lock it neatly and keep everything secure.
Chain 1, then insert your hook into the second loop underneath the I-cord and pull up a new loop. You will now have two loops on your hook.
Remove the outer loop, chain with the remaining loop, then place the second loop back onto the hook and chain again.
Repeat this process, alternating the loops, to build a strong and slightly structured section until you reach your desired length.
To finish, make a slip stitch into the crochet heart using both loops on your hook to secure the connection.
Cut the I-cord, leaving a long tail of about 30 cm. Pull the tail through the last stitch to lock it in place.
Bring both sides of the crochet cord together, then use the I-cord tail to wrap tightly around the join. Keep the wraps close and even so the finish looks clean and secure.
When you reach the end, tuck the remaining tail under the wrapped section and pull it through to lock everything in place. Trim any excess I-cord if needed.
Adding a Decorative Keyring (Feather Detail Idea)
If you want to add a soft, decorative touch to your phone lanyard, a macramé feather is a beautiful option.
Start by cutting one longer piece of cord for the center (this will be the spine of the feather), and several shorter pieces for the sides. Fold each short piece in half and attach them onto the center cord using a lark’s head knot, alternating sides as you go to build the feather shape.
Once you’ve added enough pieces, trim both sides into a leaf or feather shape. Then gently brush out the fibers with a comb or your fingers to create that soft, fluffy texture.
To finish, attach the top loop of the feather to your keyring or swivel hook. You can keep it natural or add a little fabric stiffener if you want the shape to hold better over time.
Conclusion
Making a phone lanyard with I-cord using the Caydo Pro is a simple project that combines function and design in a really satisfying way. This phone lanyard DIY with I-cord is perfect for creating something durable, customizable, and easy to use every day. Once you try it, you’ll see how a small idea can turn into a piece you actually reach for all the time.
Watch the Video Tutorial
FAQ’s
What is the best yarn to make a phone lanyard with I-cord using the Caydo Pro?
The best yarn for a phone lanyard DIY with I-cord is cotton, especially mercerized cotton, because it has less stretch and creates a more durable and structured strap. Lighter yarn weights, size 3 or less, also work best with the Caydo Pro machine for smooth and even results.
How long should a phone lanyard with I-cord be?
The length of your phone lanyard with I-cord depends on how you want to wear it. A long lanyard is usually around 100 to 120 cm for crossbody use, while a wrist strap is typically around 30 to 40 cm before finishing.
How much yarn do I need to make a phone lanyard with I-cord using the Caydo Pro?
For a phone lanyard DIY with I-cord, a long lanyard of about 100 cm usually requires around 115 to 120 meters of yarn. A shorter wrist strap uses significantly less, making this a great project for using leftover yarn.
Can beginners make a phone lanyard with I-cord on the Caydo Pro?
Yes, this is a beginner-friendly project. The Caydo Pro makes it easy to create an even I-cord, and with a simple finishing technique, you can turn it into a strong and practical phone lanyard without advanced skills.
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Hi! I’m Fabiana, a crochet and knitwear designer with a passion for creating beautiful, functional pieces. I love experimenting with textures, colors, and patterns to craft everything from cozy sweaters to crochet tops and swimwear. On my YouTube channel, I share tutorials, tips, and behind-the-scenes looks at my design process. Crochet and knitting are more than hobbies, they’re my way of life.
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