The Very Easy Guide to Cable Knitting

This very easy guide opens up the wonderful world of twisted stitches to knitters of any ability, even complete beginners.

It is an indispensable introduction to all kinds of stitches, from simple mock cables to intricate bobble-textured plaits, for both cable panels, accents, and all-over repeats.

Learn the basic techniques and practise the stitches with clear instructions and step-by step photos then use your skills to make 13 specially designed projects, from giant-cable throws that stitch up quickly on large needles, to snuggly hats and scarves and more adventurous accessories and home comforts.

Each stitch pattern is featured in both written and chart form so you can get used to using either method when working from other commercial patterns. So whether you’re a knitting novice or a dab hand, cables have never been easier to make.

This is a reissue of the previously best-selling published book The Very Easy Guide to Cable Knitting (9781844485314).

Introduction 6
Lesson 1: Yarns 8, Lesson 2: Knitting kit 10, Lesson 3: Cable needles 12

Knitting basics 14
Lesson 4: Casting on 16, Lesson 5: Knit and purl 18, Lesson 6: Reversible fabrics 20, Lesson 7: Casting off 21, Lesson 8: Tension 22, Lesson 9: Charts 24

THE CABLES 26

Lesson 10: Mock cables 28
Technique: Binding stitches 30, The stitch collection 32, Project 1: Mug and tea cosies 50, Project 2: Placemat and napkin ring 54, Project 3: Scarf 56, Project 4: Storage basket 58

Lesson 11: Cable panels 60
Technique: Working a simple cable 62, The stitch collection 64, Project 5: Hot water bottle cover 82, Project 6: Hand muff 84, Project 7: Cushion and bolster 86, Project 8: Throw and cushion 88

Lesson 12: Cable patterns 92
Technique: Twisting stitches 94, The stitch collection 96, Project 9: Oblong cushion 116, Project 10: Knitting bag 118, Project 11: Baby blanket 120, Project 12: Handbag 122, Project 13: Floor cushion 124

FINISHING TECHNIQUES 126
Lesson 13: Blocking and pressing 128, Lesson 14: Perfect seams 130, Lesson 15: Tassels 132, Lesson 16: Pompoms 133, Lesson 17: Twisted cord 134, Lesson 18: Fringing 135, Lesson 19: Adding buttons 136, Lesson 20: Decorative thongs 138, Lesson 21: Aftercare essentials 139

Abbreviations and chart symbols 140

Index 142