Knitting Cable Pattern Calculator
Created by: Ethan Brooks
Last updated:
Plan your cable knitting with accurate stitch counts that account for cable pull-in. Calculate how many cable panels fit your width, estimate extra yarn needed, and check row repeat alignment.
Knitting Cable Pattern Calculator
KnittingPlan cable panels with stitch counts, pull-in, and yarn estimates
Project Width & Gauge
Cable Specifications
Example: C6F = 6-stitch cable. With 2 purl stitches each side = 4 background stitches.
Row Alignment (Optional)
Enter your total rows to check if they align with your cable repeat.
Related Calculators
What is a Cable Pattern Calculator?
A Cable Pattern Calculator helps knitters plan cable panels by calculating stitch counts, fabric pull-in, extra yarn requirements, and row repeat alignment. Enter your cable specifications to get accurate planning numbers.
Cables add beautiful texture to knitting but require careful planning. This calculator accounts for the width reduction and extra yarn that cables demand, so your finished piece matches your intended dimensions.
Understanding Cable Calculations
Cable Width: Number of stitches that cross (e.g., C6 = 6 stitches)
Row Repeat: Number of rows between cable crossings
Pull-In Factor: How much narrower cables make the fabric (10-20%)
Extra Yarn: Cables use 15-30% more yarn than plain knitting
Frequently Asked Questions
How do cables affect fabric width?
Cables pull the fabric in, making it narrower than stockinette at the same stitch count. A cable panel typically narrows fabric by 10-20% depending on cable density. You need extra stitches to achieve the same width as non-cabled fabric.
How many extra stitches do I need for cables?
A general rule: add 10-20% more stitches when substituting cables for stockinette. The exact amount depends on cable width, frequency, and yarn elasticity. Always swatch your cable pattern to measure the actual pull-in.
Do cables use more yarn than stockinette?
Yes, cables use 15-30% more yarn than stockinette because the crossed stitches travel a longer path. Wider cables and more frequent crossing use more yarn. Budget extra yardage for cabled projects.
What is a cable repeat?
A cable repeat is the total number of rows before the cable pattern starts over. A C6F (6-stitch cable crossed every 8 rows) has an 8-row repeat. Complex cable panels may have repeats of 12, 16, 24, or more rows.
How do I calculate stitches for a cable panel?
Count the stitches in one cable repeat width, including any background stitches between cables. For example, a 6-stitch cable with 2 purl stitches on each side = 10 stitches per cable panel.
What size cable needle should I use?
Use a cable needle the same size or slightly smaller than your working needles. Smaller cable needles are easier to manage and won't stretch stitches. Some knitters prefer cable needles shaped like hooks or U-bends.
Can I knit cables without a cable needle?
Yes! Cabling without a cable needle is faster once learned. Slip the cable stitches off the needle, hold them front or back with your fingers, knit the next stitches, then pick up the held stitches. Works best with sticky yarns like wool.
How do I match cable panels at seams?
Plan your cable placement so panels align at seams. Count rows carefully on both pieces. For side seams, mirror cables (one piece uses front crosses, the other uses back crosses) for a symmetrical look.
Sources and References
- Norah Gaughan's Knitted Cable Sourcebook
- Principles of Knitting by June Hemmons Hiatt
- Vogue Knitting: The Ultimate Knitting Book