These patterns create “Mock Cables,” which are textured knitting stitches that mimic the look of true cables without requiring the use of a cable needle. They achieve this by manipulating the order in which stitches are worked, creating a twisted or crossed effect. Both patterns presented here are four-row repeats and are very similar, differing only in the direction of the “cable” twist. They are both based on a 2×2 rib (alternating two knit and two purl stitches).
Both of these mock cable stitches are excellent for adding texture and visual interest to projects without the complexity of traditional cabling. Because they are based on a 2×2 rib, the resulting fabric will have good elasticity. They are suitable for a wide variety of projects, including scarves, hats, sweaters, blankets, and accessories. Yarns with good stitch definition, such as worsted, DK, or sport weight, will show off the mock cable texture best. Avoid very fuzzy or bulky yarns, as they might obscure the pattern.
Abbreviations:
- K: Knit
- P: Purl
- rep: Repeat
- st(s): Stitch(es)
- right side: The “public” or “front” side of the fabric.
- to end: repeat the pattern to the end of the current row.
- * … *: This indicates the section of the row that is repeated.
- C2F (Cable 2 Front): Slip the next stitch onto a cable needle (or just hold it in front of the work), knit the following stitch, then knit the stitch from the cable needle/your fingers. Because there is no cable needle, skip the first stitch and knit the second stitch and then knit the first skipped stitch. Slip both off the needle at the end.
- C2B (Cable 2 Back): Slip the next stitch onto a cable needle (or just hold it in back of the work), knit the following stitch, then knit the stitch from the cable needle/your fingers. Because there is no cable needle, purl the second stitch on the needle, and then the skipped first stitch. Slip both off the needle at the end.
Mock Cable Right
This version creates a mock cable that twists to the right. The key is the C2F instruction on Row 3.
Cast On:
Multiple of 4 + 2.
Knitting Directions:
Row 1 (right side): P2, *k2, p2; rep from * to end.
Row 2: K2, *p2. k2; rep from * to end.
Row 3: P2, *C2F, p2; rep from * to end.
Row 4: As 2nd row.
Rep these 4 rows.
Mock Cable Left
This version creates a mock cable that twists to the left. The difference is the C2B instruction on Row 3.
Cast On:
Multiple of 4 + 2.
Knitting Directions:
Row 1 (right side): P2, *k2, p2; rep from * to end.
Row 2: K2, *p2. k2; rep from * to end.
Row 3: P2, *C2B, p2; rep from * to end.
Row 4: As 2nd row.
Rep these 4 rows.
