Knitting cables adds texture and an embossed, three-dimensional look to garments. Cables resemble cords or ropes twisted around each other or crisscrossing in lattice or grid formations. Cable knitting is ideal for large projects such as chunky winter garments and bags.

Tips for Choosing Yarn for Eye-Catching Cable Knitting:

• Use plain colors: Cables are more visible and stand out better when the outline is not broken by flecked or variegated yarn. Light-colored yarn is most effective for cable knitting.
• Choose thicker wool: Double knitting or chunky yarn works best.
• Avoid “fluffy” yarns: Yarns such as angora can obscure cable details.
• Steer clear of yarn with bobbles or uneven thickness: These can diminish the impact of the cable and make them harder to knit.

Here are some cable stitch patterns for you to explore.