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This Four Stitch Cable is crossed every 4th row. This is a simple cable pattern that has many variations.
However, despite the variations, the cable action is always the same. To provide symmetry and balance to the pattern, a simple cable pattern is used on either side of a common center, one of them should be crossed in front and one in the back.
Actually, when knitting a simple cable pattern such as this Four Stitch Cable, the most attractive cables are the ones where the pattern has the same number of rows as there are stitches in the cable.
To make the cable panels pop and stand out more, you have to use purl stitches between each panel.
Cables are usually made using a cable needle. Normally, you will use a special cable needle for this. Alternatively, you can use a short double-pointed needle (dpn).

Techniques Needed For Four Stitch Cable (1) 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
C4F sl 2 sts on to cable needle at front, k2, k2 from cable needle
C4B sl 2 sts on to cable needle at back, k2, k2 from cable needle
rev st st reverse stockinette stitch (1 row p, 1 row k) (UK: reverse stocking stitch)
Instructions (Knitted Flat)
Left-Leaning Four Stitch Cable
Panel of 4 sts on rev st st
Row 1(RS): K4
Row 2: P4
Row 3: C4F
Row 4: P4
Repeat rows 1 – 4 until you reach the desired length.
Right-Leaning Four Stitch Cable
Panel of 4 sts on rev st st
Row 1(RS): K4
Row 2: P4
Row 3: C4B
Row 4: P4
Repeat rows 1 – 4 until you reach the desired length.