The tradition of covering your hair in public is one of modesty, and also keeping a private space that is just between the woman and her partner and G-d. A piece of her that belongs to only herself and those whom she loves most. A part that is not shared with the rest of the world, unable to be judged or mocked.
For some the concept is old fashioned and they view it as being oppressive, for others it’s a moment of spirituality and empowerment.
In the end, covering one’s hair is a choice, and one that is deeply personal. Hence the name of this little kerchief. Iyshiy translates to Personal. The name speaks to a deep truth that resonates with me, that my faith and spirituality, while fitting under the umbrella that is Judaism, is at the same time, very personal.
As it is meant to be.

Iyshiy calls for just 25g of fingering weight yarn, easily made with scraps from a larger project. Knit from the point up to the headband, Iyshiy combines simple garter, stocking, and an easy lace panel to give you a versatile kerchief that will change based on the yarn that you choose. Once the body is complete, an applied headband is knit sideways, casting of the main body. I-cord ties are knit to the front corners to help tie behind the head.

Sample yarn: Honeyflower Sip Along 2021 by Good Wool NZ, Sock
25g of Fingering weight/4ply wool of your choice
3.25mm needles, or needle needed to obtain gauge, 40cm/16” circular needles
2 place/stitch markers
Darning needle
Gauge: gauge is not crucial for this project.
Sample gauge is 21 sts x 40 rows over 4”/10cm, stocking stitch
Skills Used: long-tail Cast On, knit, purl, yarn over, knitting increases, knitting descreases, purl decrease, backwards loop cast on, I-cord knitting