How To Knit: Cable stitch

Cables are so-called because of their appearance - like a collection of thick cables twisted around each other. There are lots of different variations but as soon as you know how to use a cable needle, a cable knit stitch is easy.

Kniting expert Freddie Patmore demonstrates exactly how cable knit stitch is done, in the video below.

These cute and stylish Cable patterns are created by crossing stitches over one another.

You create this effect by altering the order of the stitches as they're worked off your left-hand needle.

A cable needle is required for this technique (see below). When working cables, a number of stitches are placed on this special needle and left either at back or at front of work while you carry on knitting away as normal, as if the cable needle isn't there.

You return to those stitches later on. Hint: There is an alternative method to work a narrow cable without the use of a cable needle known simply as 'twisted stitches' or 'mock cable' . Your knitting pattern will always specify precisely what to do with a cable abbreviation and they may vary slightly from pattern to pattern so make sure to read your directions carefully. Contrasting texture cushions looks very stylish. Try the Woman's Weekly Rib And Cable Knit Bag Knitting Pattern for a fashion-statement bag.

How To Knit: A cable stitch guide

C4F (Cable 4 Front)

C4B (Cable 4 Back)

 

Slip 2 stitches onto a cable needle and let this hang at the back of your work, knit 2 stitches from the left-hand needle, then knit 2 stitches from the cable needle.

 

 

 

 

Remember though, to work a cable, you must make sure you have a cable needle to hand. These 'cranked' ones stop your stitches from sliding off when you've moved them from your left-hand needle and the cabled stitches are temporarily out of action.

 

 

 

 

Cable needles aren't available in the same precise size as your regular knitting needles, instead you'll usually find them available in 'small' and 'large' sizes. Go for the one which is slightly smaller than the needle size you've been using for your main project. Happy knitting!