Welcome to the world of cable knitting! It’s a beautiful new place, full of twists and turns and—if you’re like me a little bit intimidating. I’m going to tell you my top 10 tips for making cables easier and more fun.
They might not all apply to every project or pattern, but these are things that have helped me out along the way.
| Takeaways |
|---|
| Cable knitting is a fun and rewarding technique that can add interest and texture to your knitting projects. |
| Using the right tools, such as circular needles and cable needles, can make cable knitting much easier. |
| Reading cable patterns carefully and keeping track of your row count can help you avoid mistakes when working with cables. |
| Experimenting with different types of cables, such as rope, honeycomb, and braided cables, can help you develop your cable knitting skills. |
| Practice makes perfect when it comes to cable knitting, so don’t be afraid to take on challenging projects and learn from your mistakes. |
1. Learn All The Symbols
Every knitter has probably experienced this moment: you’re working on a cable pattern, and your brain just glazes over. You stare at the instructions and wonder why they don’t make any sense.
The problem is that knitting symbols are not intuitive they’re not like words or numbers. In fact, there are many different ways to symbolize a single element of knitting (like cables). It can be hard to learn, but it’s worth it when you get through that first pattern!
To start out, let’s look at two of the most common cable needle symbols: crossed and uncrossed versions. These are incredibly easy to understand because they show how the stitches cross over each other in real life!
If you want to learn how to master cable knitting, check out our Beginner’s Guide to Knitting Cables. You’ll find everything you need to know about the basics of cable knitting, including tips and tricks that will help you create beautiful cables in no time.
2. Get Your Own Cable Needle
A cable needle is a specialized kind of needle that’s used to hold stitches when you’re working cables.
A common type is the double-pointed version, but you may also find straight ones. They come in sets (like this one) or individually and can be purchased at any major yarn shop or online retailer.
| Type of Cable Needle | Description |
|---|---|
| Straight Cable Needle | This type of cable needle is similar to a double-pointed needle, with a pointed end on either side. It is a good option for beginners, as it is easy to hold and maneuver. |
| Curved Cable Needle | A curved cable needle has a more ergonomic shape that makes it easier to use for extended periods of time. It is also less likely to slip out of your stitches than a straight cable needle. |
| U-Shaped Cable Needle | This type of cable needle has a U-shaped curve that holds your stitches securely in place. It is a good option for more advanced cable knitters who are working with slippery or fine yarns. |
| Double-Pointed Needle | Some knitters prefer to use a double-pointed needle as a cable needle, as it works well for smaller, more intricate cable designs. However, it can be more difficult to keep your stitches from slipping off the needle. |
| Interchangeable Cable Needles | Interchangeable cable needles allow you to switch out the needle tips, allowing for greater flexibility when working on cable projects. They are especially useful if you like to vary the size of your needles frequently. |
3. Watch For The Direction Of Your Cables
One of the first things to do when you’re working cables is to decide whether you want your cable to go right-side-out or left-side out.
It’s important to keep in mind that cables can be worked in any direction, but they will always cross over stitches on one side of the work and avoid crossing over stitches on the other. For example, let’s say we want our work to look like this:
On this piece of knitting, we see that there are two cables running down its length; one is worked left-side out (the center one) and one is worked right-side out (the outside one).
Because of this difference in direction, each cable crosses over different numbers of stitches as it follows its path along the fabric.
4. Be Sure To Read The Entire Pattern First!
If you’re serious about learning how to cable, the most important tip I can give you is this: read the entire pattern first! This is a big one that many people miss out on.
The reason being that they don’t want to waste time reading something they think they already know. But if you read ahead of time and understand what each line means in terms of stitches, it will help you better understand the pattern and make fewer mistakes when knitting.
By reading before starting your project, you can also use this time to make sure you have all the materials needed for your project and tools required by your needles or hook (if applicable).
This will save time from having to go back later because something wasn’t available when needed.
Are you looking for stunning cable knitting patterns to try? Our collection of 15 Cable Knitting Patterns is sure to inspire you. From scarves to sweaters, these patterns showcase the beauty of cables and will give you plenty of ideas for your next project.
5. Learn To Read Charts
Charts are one of the easiest ways to learn a new knitting pattern. Charts are often more compact than written instructions, and they can help you learn how to read your stitches in a way that is easier for you.
You may find that charts take some getting used to at first. You might get confused when creating them or reading them back, but don’t worry! Once you have used a chart once or twice, it will become second nature, just like any other kind of knitting pattern.
Once you have made your first few projects using charts, try learning how to create your own! You can use this skill for designing unique sweaters and accessories by making up your own designs from scratch or adapting existing patterns into something new and exciting!
Decorating your home with knitted items can be a fun and rewarding experience. Our collection of 15 Patterns for Beautiful Pillows and Throws contains a variety of patterns that will add a cozy touch to any room in your home. From geometric designs to classic cables, these patterns are sure to inspire you.
6. Keep Your Stitches Oriented Correctly
Your knitting pattern may look like a jumble of letters and numbers at first, but if you lay all the stitches on the needles or in front of you, they should be oriented correctly so that they’re ready to be worked with the next row.
If in doubt, ask a friend or look it up on the internet (beginner knitters will especially benefit from our video tutorials). If you’re still not sure after that, rewind and start over!
It’s not uncommon for most knitters to get to the end of one row only to realize that their stitches are either twisted or oriented incorrectly or both!
Don’t panic; just pick them back up again and place them on your needle(s) properly before proceeding with your next row.
Keeping Your Stitches Oriented Correctly
| Stitch Orientation | Description |
|---|---|
| Right-leaning | A right-leaning cable is created by crossing the stitches to the right, meaning that the stitch that is held in the front of the work is worked before the stitch at the back of the work. |
| Left-leaning | A left-leaning cable is created by crossing the stitches to the left, meaning that the stitch at the back of the work is worked before the stitch that is held in the front of the work. |
| Counter-clockwise | When working a cable that crosses over more than two stitches, it is important to keep the stitch orientation consistent. One way to do this is to always work in a counter-clockwise direction, meaning that each stitch is worked in the same order each time. |
| Clockwise | Another way to keep stitch orientation consistent when working large cables is to always work in a clockwise direction, meaning that the stitches are worked in the same order, but in the opposite direction. |
| Tracking Rows | Keeping track of your rows and the order in which you work your stitches can also help you maintain correct stitch orientation when working cables. You can use a row counter or simply mark your rows with a piece of scrap yarn to help you stay organized. |
7. Use A Stitch Marker To Keep Track Of Where You Are In The Pattern
A stitch marker is a tool that will keep track of where you are in your pattern. It’s important to use a different color or style of stitch marker than the one used for regular knitting because it can get confusing if they look too similar.
Stitch markers are used in several ways:
- To mark the beginning of a repeat (for example, when you’re working an increase row)
- To mark the end of a repeat (for example, when you’re working decrease rows)
- To mark where you are in your pattern
If you’re looking for a fun knitting project that will add a cozy touch to your home, check out our tutorial on How to Make a Knitted Table Runner. With just a few basic knitting skills, you can create a beautiful table runner that will impress all your guests.
8. Use Stitch Markers To Keep Track Of Repeats
In any project, there will be sections that repeat. This is especially true with cables and patterns, but it can also happen with rows and charts.
For example, if you’re making a cable pattern that repeats every 16 stitches and creates a 4-stitch cable on each side of the work, you’ll want to use stitch markers to help keep track of where those cables are.
Use one color of stitch marker for each side of the work (two colors total), so that you know where your left cable stops and your right one starts. Or if your chart has six repeats in it before starting over again at row 1, use six different colors of markers as well—one for each repeat!
9. Track Your Progress With Checkmarks On The Pattern
You’ll have to mark your progress. You don’t want to lose your place and end up with a granny square that’s not in the shape of a square.
So track it with pencil dots, not pen or marker. Pen will bleed through the paper and eraseable marker won’t stay erased for long.
10. Don’t Be Afraid To Try New Things!
Don’t be afraid to try new things!
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you get stuck, or just aren’t sure how exactly you should do something, there are plenty of resources online that can help.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. If a pattern isn’t making sense, or there is something that doesn’t seem right about it, talk with someone else who knits (or even consider asking me!). There may very well be a simple reason why the pattern is written like this and not another way—and it’s worth taking the time to figure out what those reasons might be.
Don’t let fear keep you from experimenting with new tools or techniques in your knitting practice! You never know what might inspire an entirely new style of knitting for yourself!
Are you ready to take your knitting skills to the next level by learning how to knit a sweater? Our Ultimate Guide to Knitting Sweaters has everything you need to know, from pattern selection to finishing techniques. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced knitter, this guide is a must-read.
Conclusion
We hope that these tips will help you try new things and make your knitting even more fun! If there are other tips that we haven’t covered here, feel free to share them with us in the comments section.
Further Reading
For more information on cable knitting, check out the following resources:
About Cable Knitting Patterns: This article from Interweave provides a comprehensive guide to cable knitting patterns, including how to read them and make modifications.
How to Knit Cables Like a Pro: This tutorial from Knitting Know walks you through the steps of knitting cables with detailed instructions and helpful photos.
Intro to Cables: Knit Picks offers this introduction to cables, including how to read chart and written instructions, as well as a step-by-step guide for knitting a cable swatch.
FAQs
What is cable knitting?
Cable knitting is a technique that involves crossing one group of stitches over another to create a twisted, braided effect.
What kind of projects are typically knit with cables?
Cables can be used to add interest and texture to a variety of knitting projects, including hats, scarves, sweaters, and blankets.
Is cable knitting difficult to learn?
While the technique may seem intimidating at first, cable knitting is not necessarily more difficult than other knitting techniques. With a little practice, most knitters can easily master the basics.
What kind of needles are best for cable knitting?
Circular needles are often preferred for cable knitting, as they allow you to fit more stitches onto the needle and make it easier to work back and forth between the cable sections.
How do I fix mistakes in a cable pattern?
If you make a mistake in a cable pattern, it can be helpful to use a cable needle to undo the stitches and fix the error. Paying close attention to the pattern instructions and reading the chart carefully can also help you avoid mistakes.
My name is Hellen James, and I’m a crochet and knitting expert. I’ve been crocheting since I was just a kid, but I started taking it seriously when I realized that it was a great way to de-stress and relax. Now that I have kids of my own, I love teaching them how to do it too!