Cable and Eyelet Pullover #186

Cable and Eyelet Pullover #186

What is Being Made

The Cable and Eyelet Pullover #186, designed by Sue McCain, is a knitted pullover sweater available in sizes XXS through 6X with finished bust measurements ranging from 28½ inches to 69½ inches. This intermediate-level knitting project features a striking cable and eyelet stitch pattern inspired by Japanese stitch design books, creating an elegant textured fabric with visual depth and interest throughout the garment.

Design Inspiration and Pattern Features

According to designer Sue McCain, this sweater was created around a beautiful cable and eyelet pattern discovered in Japanese stitch pattern references. The designer notes that while the cable pattern itself is relatively simple in construction, the finished results are exceptionally lovely. The cable and eyelet motif serves as the primary decorative element, showcasing how straightforward stitch techniques can produce sophisticated visual effects when thoughtfully incorporated into garment design.

Knitting Techniques Used

This pullover employs several fundamental knitting techniques appropriate for intermediate-level crafters. The garment utilizes cable knitting, which involves crossing groups of stitches over one another to create the characteristic twisted, rope-like texture. Eyelet stitches are incorporated to add delicate openwork details that complement the solid cables. The pattern requires working in stockinette stitch as the base fabric, with the decorative cable and eyelet pattern worked into this foundation. Seamless or minimal-seam construction methods are likely employed using both straight needles and circular needles.

Stitches and Stitch Work

• Stockinette Stitch (St st): The primary background stitch providing a smooth, classic knit fabric base
• Cable Stitches: Created by crossing stitches using a cable needle to produce twisted, dimensional texture
• Eyelet Stitches: Decorative openwork created through yarn overs and decreases, adding visual interest and breathability

Materials and Gauge

The Cable and Eyelet Pullover requires DK/light worsted weight yarn in a wool and silk blend. Yardage requirements vary by size, ranging from 1060 yards for the XXS size up to 2455 yards for the 6X size. The pattern calls for size 7 (4.5 mm) knitting needles as the primary needles, with size 6 (4 mm) needles for ribbing and finishing details. A 16-inch size 6 (4 mm) circular needle is also required, along with a cable needle for manipulating cable stitches and stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats.

The gauge for the Cable and Eyelet Pattern is 30 stitches and 31 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) before washing and blocking, and 26 stitches and 30 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) after washing and blocking. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining the correct finished measurements across all size options.