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The Four Stitch Cable is a simple cable and a variation of the Four Stitch Cable (1) Pattern. This pattern is crossed every 6th row.
In fact, the cable action on this variant is exactly the same as the Four Stitch Cable (1). If this simple cable pattern is used on either side of a common center, one of the cables should be crossed in front and the other in the back. This will give symmetry and balance to the pattern.
If you knit any simple cable pattern, you’ll notice that the cable pattern usually has the same number of rows as there are stitches in the cable.
Many knitters prefer a slightly looser cable like this variant. And this simple cable variant has two more rows than there are stitches.
We suggest that you use purl stitches between each panel of cables as this will make the panels pop and stand out more.
You will usually make cables using a cable needle. A special cable needle is commonly used for this. Alternatively, you can use a short double-pointed needle (dpn).

Techniques Needed For Four Stitch Cable (2) 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: K4
Row 4: P4
Row 5: C4F
Row 6: P4
Repeat rows 1 – 6 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: K4
Row 4: P4
Row 5: C4B
Row 6: P4
Repeat rows 1 – 6 until you reach the desired length.