If you’re looking for free cable knitting patterns, you’ve come to the right place. There are so many amazing designs out there to choose from but we’ve gathered a selection of our most favorite cable knits for you to enjoy. We’ll help you choose the perfect one for your next knitting project – the one that will really make your needles sing.
Whether you’re looking for a simple cable knit scarf pattern or something more complex, we’ve got you covered. These free cable knitting patterns include designs for scarves, sweaters, gloves, socks, and more. You could cover yourself with cable knits from head to toe after reading this article!
Contrary to popular belief, free cable knitting patterns aren’t all complex and advanced. Our collection includes patterns for all skill levels, so you can find a design that suits you no matter how experienced a knitter you are. Even if you have never attempted cable knitting before, I bet there are a few projects on this list that you could tackle.
If you love all things textured, then you are about to experience sheer knitting bliss! There’s nothing quite like the look and feel of cables to really elevate a project. And if you don’t believe me, I guess you’ll just have to see for yourself!
Here is a helpful video for how to knit cables:
So what are you waiting for? Get started on your next project with one of our free cable patterns today. Scroll down and prepare to be inspired!
Cable Knit Set
The color block design and color choices for this Cable Knit Set remind me of neapolitan ice cream – yum! In addition to all those delicious cables, the pattern also uses the shaker rib stitch. If you don’t recognize the stitch by looking at the picture, that’s because the “wrong” side of the shaker rib stitch is facing out.
Designer: Yarnspirations Design Studio
Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver Brushed (Aran Weight #4)
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
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Cables & Ribs Socks
Hand knit socks don’t get much cuter or cozier than these lovely Cables & Ribs Socks. The pattern is worked from the top down using a couple different cable stitch variations. These socks are sure to make a good impression so they would be a fabulous option for gift-giving.
Designer: Gayle Bunn for Yarnspirations
Yarn: Patons North America Kroy Socks (Fingering Weight #1)
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
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Crossing Branches Cowl
The angular, geometric lines of the cablework in this cowl design resemble crossing branches. This style of cablework isn’t as common as the softer interlocking style, so seeing it here is like a breath of fresh air. The pattern calls for a combination of crossover cables and twisted rib stitch.
Designer: A Fiber Collective
Yarn: Brown Sheep Prairie Spun DK (DK Weight #3)
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
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Warm Greetings
Here’s a handy design for a hot water bottle cozy! The sleek design complete with sultry cables just goes to show that something can be both beautiful and functional at the same time. This is a must make project for anyone who loves to use their hot water bottle.
Designer: Cowl and Owl
Yarn: Cascade Yarns ® Cascade 220® (Worsted Weight #4)
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
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Bluebell Twist Cardigan
Vertical lines of simple 4 stitch cables cover the surface of this beautiful blue cardigan. The design features a v-neck, a button front closure, and diagonal shoulders. A relaxed fit gives off those carefree vibes that fit in so well with a day spent at the beach. The piece is knitted from the bottom up.
Designer: DROPS Design
Yarn: Garnstudio DROPS Kid-Silk (Lace Weight #0) Garnstudio DROPS Nord (Fingering Weight #1)
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
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Valentine Headband
Did you know that some free cable knitting patterns use cable techniques to spell out words or create pictures? This adorable Valentine Headband is chock full of “x’s” and “o’s” which stand for hugs and kisses, of course. The pattern calls for basic cable and slip stitches. It is knit double stranded using a fine, hand-dyed yarn.
Designer: KnitQ
Yarn: Piratenwolle Merino Sockyarn 4-fach (Light Fingering Weight #0)
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
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Emblem Blanket
Here’s another one of our free cable knitting patterns that is decidedly more geometric than organic. Left and right purl crosses along with 4 stitch cables form an intricate lattice network that form diamonds within diamonds on the surface of this scrumptious throw. The corners of the blanket are worked in 2×2 rib stitch.
Designer: Purl Soho
Yarn: Purl Soho Merino DK (DK Weight #3)
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
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Delph Scarf
Not to put too fine a point on it, I am obsessed with this pointed style of scarf. The whimsical shape of the silhouette combined with the sophisticated cables and twisted stitches, make this design a real showstopper. My favorite part is the thick tassels on either end.
Designer: Nadine Dransfield
Yarn: Erika Knight for John Lewis Super Chunky (Super Bulky Weight #6)
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
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Savannah Sweater
You’re sure to feel cute and cozy in this adorable cabled sweater. The design features a wide v-neck, a relaxed fit, and drop shoulders. It totally looks like the kind of sweater that you could practically live in. The pattern employs a number of different cabling techniques that are sure to keep you captivated from start to finish.
Designer: Martin Storey
Yarn: Rowan Alpaca Soft DK (DK Weight #3)
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
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Twin Falls Mitts
Delicate cablework adorns the backs of these handsome knit mitts. Simple 4 stitch cables are used to create the intricate braided cablework centerpiece. The pattern is worked from cuff to tip, leaving a thumb gusset along the way. Then you simply pick up stitches around the opening of the gusset to complete knitting the thumb.
Designer: A Fiber Collective
Yarn: Autumn and Indigo Fibers Local Sport (Sport Weight #2)
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
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Slouch Warmer
Squiggly cables are the hallmarks of the Slouch Warmer socks. The pattern employs a clever trick for achieving a slouch on top and a more fitted foot. You start at the top of the sock with the largest needle size and you swap for smaller and smaller size needles as you progress down the sock to the toe.
Designer: Kate Atherley
Yarn: Miss Babs Putnam (Fingering Weight #1)
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
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Calais Coffee Cup Cozy
If you are new to cable knitting, then I recommend getting started with a small project before diving into a larger one. This cute cabled cup cozy is just the thing to get you started on your cable knitting journey! The pattern is available in 2 sizes so it can accommodate a wider range of cups.
Designer: Maria Moldova
Yarn: Knit Picks Wool of the Andes Sport (Sport Weight #2)
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
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Diamantes
Sections of chevrons take turns with sections of dazzling diamond cables in this chic colorblock scarf. The languid drape of the fabric and the sophisticated color selection make this design an instant classic. Its generous width makes it easy to wear as a shawl around your shoulders.
Designer: Filipa Carneiro
Yarn: Rosários 4 Iaque (Sport Weight #2)
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
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Honeysuckle Mitts
Sock yarn can be used for more than just socks you know! It can be a shame to hide self-striping sock yarn in your shoes, so why not make some mitts instead. This gorgeous design features an eye-catching ridge of braided cables down the center.
Designer: Rachel Brockman
Yarn: Universal Yarn Zesty Sock (Light Fingering Weight #0)
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
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Puffed Sleeve Sweater
Take a trip to texture town with this lovely Puffed Sleeve Sweater. The mock neck and relaxed fit will keep you cute, cozy, and comfortable no matter where your adventures take you. You will get to knit a few different cablework patterns along with some ribbing.
Designer: Hayfield
Yarn: Hayfield Bonus Aran 100% Acrylic (Aran Weight #4)
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
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Snowy Bee
Cablework forms a network of honeycomb-like ridges in this stunning sweater design. When you’re not playing around with cables, you’ll be cruising along knitting simple garter stitch. The design has a flattering and slightly oversized fit that looks oh-so-cozy. It’s the kind of sweater you will never want to take off!
Designer: DROPS Design
Yarn: Garnstudio DROPS Kid-Silk (Lace Weight #0) Garnstudio DROPS Puna (DK Weight #3)
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
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Diamond Heights Cable Blanket
Turn up the texture with super bulky weight yarn and cable stitches in this dazzling diamond blanket. The pattern uses 2 different cable stitch patterns along with reverse stockinette and double moss stitches. It’s an heirloom quality design that is sure to be appreciated for years to come.
Designer: Kristen McDonnell
Yarn: Lion Brand Wool-Ease Thick & Quick Solids (Super Bulky Weight #6)
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
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Sunburst Cowl
Experiment with single color and two color cablework in this bright and cheery cowl design. The bold red, pink, and yellow color palette demands to be seen. All eyes are certain to be on you! There are a few different stitch combinations used within the pattern so it will certainly not be a boring project.
Designer: Uma Padu
Yarn: Balltopia Yarn Co. Merino Nylon Worsted (Worsted Weight #4)
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
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Golden Hour Cardigan
Thick yarn and large cables make the languid cables of this casual cardigan. Unlike the tightly braided cables often seen in free cable knitting patterns, these braids are loose and carefree. I love the casual style of this design and the fact that it looks so dang good with a simple t-shirt and jeans.
Designer: DROPS Design
Yarn: Garnstudio DROPS Wish (Super Bulky Weight #6)
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
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Big V Little Mitts
If knit mittens and gloves normally feel a little roomy on you, then you will be pleased to note that the Big V Little Mitts were designed especially for smaller hands. The slender fit combined with the stunning cable detailing make this design an instant classic!
Designer: Big V Knits
Yarn: Studio Donegal Donegal Aran Tweed (Aran Weight #4)
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
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Vanilja Top
Sweaters can sometimes steal the show, but short sleeve knit tops can be just as cute – if not even cuter! This stitch sampler style top uses a myriad of stitches – including cables – to achieve a highly textured look. I especially love the slimming vertical lines.
Designer: Lea Petäjä
Yarn: Novita Huviretki (DK Weight #3)
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
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Hellä Socks
Tall socks make me think of carefree days spent lounging around and reading a book. Treat yourself to the luxurious warmth of a pair of tall socks with this stunning cabled design. The pattern is knit from the top down with a heel flap.
Designer: Lea Petäjä
Yarn: Novita 7 Veljestä Solids (Aran Weight #4)
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
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Sedona Sweater
Pockets make everything better and that includes free cable knitting patterns! This cable knit sweater is just so cute and highly fashionable too. The pattern uses twisted stitches and seed stitch in addition to the distinctive columns of cables running down the sleeves and pockets.
Designer: Rachel Brockman
Yarn: Universal Yarn Deluxe Worsted Tweed Superwash (Worsted Weight #4)
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
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Ginger Gradient Cables Cowl
You can play with color and texture at the same time with this lovely cowl design. The lovely orange gradient pairs wonderfully with the delicate texture of the undulating cables. The shape that the cables form reminds me of the helix structure of dna! This project certainly looks to be a treat to knit.
Designer: Kimberly Kalnoki
Yarn: GGH Manila Dégradé and GGH Manila Worsted (Worsted Weight #4)
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
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Urbana Scarf
Large, loose cables border a middle section of small, tight cables in this fabulously dual textured scarf design. The resulting scarf can easily be worn by both men and women. My favorite aspect of this design is the touch of tweed in the recommended yarn.
Designer: J.H. Walter
Yarn: Blue Sky Fibers Woolstok Tweed (Aran Weight #4)
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
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Final Thoughts on Cable Knitting Patterns
I just can’t get enough of these incredible cable-knit patterns! Don’t be intimidated if cable knitting is a dynamic new world for you. The awe-inspiring texture of cable knit stitches are easier than you think, especially once you get the hang of traditional cables. Cozy cables will take your knitting to a whole new level!
If you are brand new to cable knitting, I’d suggest practicing with a gauge swatch to get the hang of your cable stitch pattern. Usually cables are worked on reverse stockinette stitch and that’s a good place to start practicing. Then, you can move on to a cable ribbed cowl, fingerless mitts, a cable scarf, cable sweaters, or any of these lovely patterns on our list today!
To knit simple cables, you’ll need your traditional set of knitting needles (either a circular needle or straight needles, depending upon the cable knit pattern you choose) and a cable knitting needle to hold your knit cables. If you are working intricate cables you might also need stitch markers to help you mark your cable needle stitches.
There are many different ways to knit cables and each will grow your knitting skills. You have chunky cables, a right-leaning cable, left-leaning cable, rope cable (which have rope-like patterns), sand cables, celtic cables and more. Some wil come with cable charts if you are more visual and enjoy using charts. Follow the pattern instructions for each different type of cable to master the art of these gorgeous stitches.
Enjoy lace knitting? Check out these projects here!
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I’ll see you next week for another free knitting pattern round-up. Make sure to follow the blog so you never miss a post. <3
Happy Knitting!
Amanda
