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The Chain Cable is a famous cable pattern that you often find in Aran sweaters. In fact, this cable pattern forms the basis of the Aran Honeycomb.
Essentially, this is a number of Chain Cables worked side by side. Actually, the cables are in contact with each other across the fabric.
Furthermore, you will often see this stitch pattern also referred to as the Double Ribbon Stitch.
Technically, this is not a reversible cable pattern. However, the wrong side does have an interesting texture. As a matter of fact, this cable pattern works well for projects where the reverse side is visible to the public.
Just like the Wave Cable, the cable stitches do not actually cross. Instead, the stitches are moved back and forth, forming an embossed pattern.
As with most cable patterns, it is much easier to knit the pattern when using a “cable needle”. By far, the easiest is to use a cable needle. This is a short needle that has been especially designed for moving stitches around when making cables.
Alternatively, you can of course just use a short double pointed needle.

Techniques Needed For Chain Cable Stitch Pattern
Abbreviation Description Tutorial
k knit Knit Stitch Continental Style
Knit Stitch English Style
p purl Purl Stitch Continental Style
Purl Stitch English Style
Other Abbreviations Used
ws wrong side
rs right side
rep repeat
st(s) stitch(es)
dpn double-pointed needle
Instructions (Knitted Flat)
Panel of 12 sts.
Row 1 (WS): K2, p8, k2.
Row 2: P2, sl next 2 sts to dpn and hold in back, k2, then k2 from dpn; sl next 2 sts to dpn and hold in front, k2, then k2 from dpn; p2.
Row 3: K2, p8, k2.
Row 4: P2, k8, p2.
Row 5: K2, p8, k2.
Row 6: P2, sl next 2 sts to dpn and hold in front, k2, then k2 from dpn; sl next 2 sts to dpn and hold in back, k2, then k2 from dpn; p2.
Row 7: K2, p8, k2.
Row 8: P2, k8, p2.
Repeat rows 1-8 until the desired length is reached.