How to Knit a Basic Right-Leaning Cable – Step-by-Step Guide

I’ve always loved the look of intricate, twisting patterns in knitted fabric, so when I first learned how to knit a cable, I was instantly hooked. Cables might look complicated, but they’re actually pretty simple once you get the hang of them! It’s all about rearranging stitches to create that signature braided effect. Whether you’re working on a cozy sweater, a chunky scarf, or even just a practice swatch, mastering cables will take your knitting to the next level. Let’s break it down step by step!

What You’ll Need

• Worsted weight yarn (or any yarn of your choice)
• Knitting needles (size appropriate for your yarn)
• A cable needle (or a double-pointed needle)
• Stitch markers (optional)

Understanding the Cable Pattern

The basic cable pattern we’ll cover in this guide follows a four-row repeat, meaning you’ll work a few setup rows before actually twisting the stitches to form the cable.

1. Rows 1-3: These are simple setup rows, where you’ll work as established in your pattern.
2. Row 4: This is the magic row where the cable twist happens.

Let’s walk through each step!

Knitting a Right-Leaning Cable

Step 1: Set Up the Stitches

Before cabling, work the first three rows of your pattern. These setup rows help establish the fabric before the twist. In this tutorial, we’re using a simple 3-over-3 cable with purl stitches on either side to make the cable stand out.

To begin Row 4 (the cabling row), purl the first four stitches to reach the cable section.

Tip: The purl stitches create a contrast that makes the cables pop!

Step 2: Slip Stitches onto a Cable Needle

Now that you’ve reached the cable section, it’s time to rearrange the stitches:

• Slip the next three stitches onto your cable needle (or double-pointed needle) purlwise (as if you were purling).
• Hold the cable needle at the back of your work.

This positioning makes the cable twist to the right. If you wanted a left-leaning cable, you’d hold the stitches in the front instead.

Step 3: Knit the Next Stitches from the Left Needle

With your three stitches waiting in the back, knit the next three stitches from your left-hand needle as usual.

This step locks in the twist by crossing the held stitches behind these newly knitted ones.

Step 4: Knit the Stitches from the Cable Needle

Now, return to the three stitches you left on the cable needle.

You have two options:

1. Knit directly from the cable needle – Some knitters prefer this method to keep things simple.
2. Slip the stitches back onto the left-hand needle first – This makes it feel more natural and prevents awkward movements.

Either way, knit these three stitches. Once you’re done, you’ve officially created the cable twist!

Step 5: Finish the Row

To complete the row, simply purl the last four stitches (or follow your pattern).

Now, take a step back and admire the twist—you’ve successfully knit a basic right-leaning cable!

Continuing the Pattern

Repeat the four-row pattern until your project reaches the desired length. The twist row (Row 4) will always be where you rearrange stitches, while the other rows keep the pattern structured.

Final Tips for Perfect Cables

• Use a larger cable needle if your stitches keep slipping off.
• Keep an even tension—not too tight, not too loose—for a clean, defined twist.
• Practice with scrap yarn before adding cables to a big project.

Now that you’ve mastered the basics, you can experiment with more complex cables, mix left and right twists, or even create braided designs. Happy knitting! 🧶✨