9 Free Cable Knitting Patterns You’ll Want to Try Right Now
Explore stunning cable knitting patterns on my free knitting pattern page and find your next project today.
Why I Love Cable Knitting Patterns
There’s just something so satisfying about knitting cables. Watching stitches twist and turn into ropes, braids, and diamonds makes me feel like I’ve created texture and depth with just a few simple moves of the needle. I’ll be honest—I used to be intimidated by cable knitting patterns. They looked complicated, like some secret code I wasn’t meant to crack. But once I gave them a try, I realized they’re actually not difficult at all. If you can knit and purl, you can work cables.
The beauty of cable knitting patterns is their versatility. They show up in everything—hats, mittens, socks, sweaters, bags, and baby bonnets. Whether you want a small beginner project or a big, ambitious garment, there’s a cable project out there with your name on it.
So today, I’m going to share some of my favorite cable knitting patterns that I’ve designed and loved. Each one has a special place in my heart, and I’ll walk you through why they’re fun to knit, the yarns I chose, and how they fit into my own knitting journey.
Selah Bonnet
First up is the Selah Bonnet. This is a DK weight bonnet with a beautifully purposeful decreased back of the head, which gives it a perfect fit for little ones. What makes it stand out is the delicate cable detail that adds texture without overwhelming the design.
For this bonnet, I used KnitPicks Capra (affiliate link), a dreamy DK weight blend of merino and cashmere. The softness makes it perfect for a baby photo prop, while the cables give it that timeless charm. When I designed this bonnet, I wanted something that knitters could work up quickly but still look like a masterpiece in newborn photos. And the Selah Bonnet checks all those boxes.
Cable knitting patterns like this one are perfect for practicing how cables flow into decreases, and you’ll feel so accomplished when you finish it.
Abner Beanie
The Abner Beanie is one of those cable knitting patterns that just feels classic yet bold. It’s a worsted weight cable beanie with a design that looks like chain links marching around the hat. Every time I knit this one, I think about how much personality cables can bring to a simple beanie.
I used Cascade 220 Superwash (affiliate link) for this project, and it was exactly the right choice. It’s warm, durable, and easy to care for, which makes it a great everyday hat. The stitch definition with this yarn really lets those chain link cables pop.
This is one of those cable knitting patterns I recommend if you want to knit something practical but still get that little thrill when people ask, “Did you make that?” and you get to answer, “Yes, I did.”
Elizabeth Socks
I’m a big believer that socks should never be boring, which is why I designed the Elizabeth Socks. These are simple, top-down socks with tiny cables running down the sides. They add just the right amount of detail without slowing down your sock knitting rhythm.
The yarn I originally used has since been discontinued, but I now reach for Malabrigo Sock (affiliate link) every time. It has gorgeous colorways and a soft yet sturdy feel that’s perfect for socks. Plus, the cables show up beautifully against the subtle variations in hand-dyed yarns.
Cable knitting patterns for socks are such a treat because they give you a touch of luxury on something you’ll wear every day. It’s a little like wearing fancy underwear—no one sees it, but it makes you feel special.
Angie Bulky Mittens
If you want instant gratification, the Angie Bulky Mittens are for you. These are a bulky weight mitten pattern with a single, bold cable running along the top of the hand. The cable is the star of the show here, and it makes the mittens look so much more complicated than they really are.
I knit mine with Lion Brand Hue + Me (affiliate link), which is one of my favorite bulky yarns for accessories. It’s soft, squishy, and knits up lightning fast. I love how quickly I can make a pair of these mittens—perfect for last-minute gifts or just when I need something satisfying to finish in a weekend.
Cable knitting patterns like this one are great for dipping your toes into cables without committing to a huge project.
Angie Bulky Mittens Free Pattern
Nicolas Cowl
The Nicolas Cowl is another of my go-to recommendations for knitters wanting to explore cable knitting patterns. It starts with a stretchy 1×1 rib that flows into a cabled section, making it feel like two patterns in one. The cables are chunky and bold but not overly complicated.
For this design, I used KnitPicks Wonderfluff (affiliate link). It’s a worsted weight yarn that’s fluffy and light as a feather, which gives the cowl warmth without bulk. When wrapped around the neck, it feels like a cloud, and the cables add such beautiful texture.
I find myself wearing this cowl all winter long, and every time I do, I’m reminded why I love cable knitting patterns so much. They transform something simple into a piece of wearable art.
Youth Peter Sweater
One of my absolute favorites is the Youth Peter Sweater. It’s a set-in sleeve, V-neck sweater designed for kids ages 3–14. The standout feature is a cable panel running down the front, which makes it both classic and stylish for little ones.
For this sweater, I chose KnitPicks Mighty Stitch (affiliate link). It’s soft, durable, and machine washable—exactly what you want for kids’ clothes. Plus, the stitch definition is fantastic, making the cables really shine.
Cable knitting patterns in sweaters can feel like a big undertaking, but the Peter Sweater is approachable. The cables give you something fun to focus on while the rest of the sweater is smooth sailing.
Youth Peter Sweater Free Pattern
Peter Vest
Next up is the Peter Vest, which takes the same cable panel from the Youth Peter Sweater and reimagines it for women. This cropped vest is perfect for layering, and I love how versatile it is—you can wear it over a dress, a collared shirt, or just with jeans for a casual look.
For this one, I used Premier Yarns Anti-Pilling Everyday (affiliate link). The anti-pilling feature makes it hold up well, and the cables stay crisp and clean even after multiple wears.
Cable knitting patterns like this vest show just how adaptable cables can be. You can use the same cable motif in completely different garments, and it always feels fresh.
Cable Crossbody Bag
And finally, let’s talk about the Cable Crossbody Bag. This one is such a fun project because it shows how cables aren’t limited to wearable garments. The bag features a cable center panel on both the front and back, with increases up the sides to shape the piece.
I knit mine with KnitPicks CotLin (affiliate link), a cotton-linen blend that gives the bag structure and durability while still looking stylish. I also lined mine with fabric and added a zipper, but that’s totally optional.
Cable knitting patterns in accessories like this bag are so rewarding because you end up with something that’s both functional and beautiful.
Cable Crossbody Bag Free Pattern
Child Ruth Skirt
The Child Ruth Skirt is a sweet and practical knit for little ones all the way through big kids, with sizes ranging from 0–3 months up to 14 years. It features an elastic waistband for a comfortable, secure fit, and the standout detail is the cabled band along the bottom edge. That textured finish makes the skirt both playful and elegant—perfect for twirling at church, school, or just everyday adventures.
I knit mine in KnitPicks Heatherly (affiliate link), which is soft, easy to work with, and gives those cables crisp definition while still being gentle enough for sensitive skin. This is one of those cable knitting patterns that grows with your child, making it a piece you’ll come back to again and again.
Why Cable Knitting Patterns Are Worth Trying
After working through all of these projects, I’ve realized cable knitting patterns are the kind of designs that keep me inspired. They offer variety, challenge, and a sense of accomplishment, but they’re never boring. Even a single cable on a mitten can transform it into something eye-catching.
Cables also allow you to play with texture in a way that plain knitting can’t. You can make bold, chunky cables that demand attention, or tiny, delicate cables that feel subtle and elegant. No matter your style, there’s a cable knitting pattern that will fit right in.
Cable knitting patterns will always have a special place in my design heart. They’re timeless, versatile, and fun to knit.
If you’ve been nervous to try them, I promise you’ll love the process once you get going. Start small if you like, or jump right into something like the Peter Sweater or Peter Vest. Either way, you’ll be amazed at what your needles can do.
Share Your Thoughts
Do you love cable knitting patterns as much as I do? Which of these projects are you itching to cast on first? I’d love to hear your thoughts, so drop a comment below and let’s talk all things cables!
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The post 9 Free Cable Knitting Patterns You’ll Want to Try Right Now appeared first on The Knit in the Womb Blog.
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