20 Celtic Cable Knitting Patterns (Free)

What Is A Celtic Cable? 

Celtic cables take inspiration from the intricate knotwork designs in traditional Celtic art.

In this cable knitting technique, you twist and cross stitches to create a knot-like effect that adds depth and texture to your work.

To knit a Celtic cable, grab a cable needle and follow a clear set of instructions that tell you which stitches to hold in front or behind as you work the others.

Most patterns include either a chart or written directions to guide you through each step.

You can add Celtic cables to all kinds of knitting projects—like hats, scarves, sweaters, and more—for a beautifully detailed finish.

They add texture and interest to the finished piece and can be a fun challenge for intermediate or advanced knitters.

How Many Celtic Cables Are There? 

There is no set number of Celtic cable patterns in knitting, as the possibilities are virtually endless.

Knitters can create their own unique cable designs inspired by Celtic knotwork, or they can follow existing patterns that incorporate Celtic cables.

Many knitting pattern books and websites offer a wide variety of Celtic cable designs, ranging from simple twists and crosses to more intricate knotwork-inspired motifs.

Some patterns may feature just one or two cables, while others may include multiple cables worked together in complex patterns.

Knitting Celtic cable patterns offers endless possibilities, limited only by your imagination and the resources you have for designing or following cable patterns.

The Most Common Celtic Cables

There are many variations of Celtic cables in knitting, and the most common designs can vary depending on the pattern or designer.

Here are a few examples of popular Celtic cable patterns that knitters often use:

• The Aran Cable: While not purely Celtic, the Aran cable often appears in Celtic-inspired knitting. It includes a mix of twists, crosses, and braids and commonly appears in classic Irish Aran sweaters.
• The Trinity Stitch: This pattern features a three-strand braid that represents the Holy Trinity. You can use it on its own or combine it with more complex cable motifs.
• The Saxon Braid: To create this intricate braid, you cross one set of stitches over another in a repeating sequence. Many knitters include it in cabled sweaters and scarves for its tight, decorative look.
• The Plaited Cable: This simple cable forms a braided effect by twisting two sets of stitches in opposite directions. It’s a great option for beginners exploring cablework.
• The Celtic Knot Cable: This pattern mimics the interlocking loops and twists of traditional Celtic knotwork. You can use it to add bold, decorative detail to your knitting projects.

These are just a few examples of the many Celtic cable patterns that exist in knitting.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced knitter, there is a wide variety of patterns available to explore and incorporate into your knitting projects.

Why Should I Knit A Celtic Cable Knitting Pattern?

Celtic cables stitch patterns are beautiful designs that can make any project truly unique. 

They are perfect for sweaters, cowls, shawls, arm warmers, hats, scarves, blankets, and pillows. 

The designs are so intricate that they make great gifts.

Knitting Celtic cables is not ideal for beginner knitters who have just learned the basic knit stitches.

If you are excited to try them out start with a fast and easy project like a dishcloth or a headband, quick patterns are perfect if you want to try out different cables stitches.

To make sure your pattern works out, you should make a gauge swatch.

How Hard Is It To Knit Cables?

Cables might look complicated, but the truth is—they’re easier than you think! If you can knit and purl, you’re already halfway there.

Cable knitting simply involves rearranging the order of stitches on your knitting needles to create cable twists, which can look like knots, braids, or even an intricate design depending on the pattern.

The skill level needed depends on the complexity of the project, but many beginner-friendly patterns on Ravelry or Pinterest break it down with step-by-step instructions.

Starting with a project using worsted weight yarn, aran weight yarn, or even super bulky yarn makes it easier to see your stitches and get comfortable with the technique.

You’ll often find cables in ribs, sweaters, and cozy accessories.

Patterns will usually tell you the suggested mm size of needles and what weight yarn to use—like DK weight yarn for lighter pieces or heavier yarns for bold cables.

With just a bit of practice, you’ll be twisting away with confidence!

​Different Cable Stitches

If you want to practice your cable knitting skills, it’s a good idea to start with basic cables – How To Knit A Simple Cable Pattern (+ Video Tutorial)

Check out the 8 cable knitting patterns for beginner’s e-book here. 

Plus, check out these 31+ cable knitting patterns to upgrade to a whole new level – 31+ Free Cable Stitch Patterns To Knit (+ Tutorials)

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