Horseshoe Cable Raglan

Horseshoe Cable Raglan by Stephanie Piper

What is Being Made

The Horseshoe Cable Raglan is a crochet sweater designed by Stephanie Piper featuring a distinctive horseshoe cable pattern. This raglan-style pullover is available in eight sizes, with yardage requirements ranging from 1260 yards for the smallest size to 2020 yards for the largest size. The sweater is constructed using aran weight yarn and intermediate-level crochet techniques, making it suitable for crocheters with some experience.

Crochet Techniques and Construction

This sweater employs post stitches as a primary technique for creating the cable texture. The horseshoe cable design is achieved through the strategic use of front post double crochet (fpdc) and back post double crochet (bpdc) stitches, which allow the crocheter to work around the post of previous stitches rather than into the top loops. This creates a dimensional, textured appearance characteristic of cable patterns in crochet.

The garment is worked in the round, utilizing alternating rows of half double crochet (hdc) and single crochet (sc) stitches to establish the base fabric and maintain proper gauge. The raglan construction method allows for seamless shaping at the armholes and shoulders, creating a fitted garment that drapes naturally on the body.

Stitches Used

• Chain stitch (ch) – Foundation and connecting stitch
• Single crochet (sc) – Short, tight stitch used in alternating rows for structure
• Half double crochet (hdc) – Medium-height stitch used in alternating rows with single crochet
• Front post double crochet (fpdc) – Works around the front of the post to create raised cable texture
• Back post double crochet (bpdc) – Works around the back of the post for dimensional cable effects
• Foundation double crochet (fdc) – Creates a chain and stitch simultaneously for a stable, stretchy foundation edge

Materials and Tools

The Horseshoe Cable Raglan calls for Bernat Cozy Style yarn or a comparable aran weight yarn (weight category 4). Aran weight yarn is a medium-weight option that works up quickly while providing excellent stitch definition, making it ideal for showcasing cable patterns. A 5.5 mm crochet hook (size I) is used to achieve the correct gauge of 4 inches by 4 inches containing 10 stitches by 10 rows when working alternating hdc and sc in the round.

Additional materials needed include a darning needle for weaving in yarn ends and scissors for cutting yarn. The pattern is provided as a downloadable PDF, allowing crocheters to work from digital or printed instructions at their own pace.

Difficulty Level

Rated as Intermediate, this sweater requires familiarity with basic crochet stitches and post stitch techniques. Crocheters should be comfortable working in the round and understanding stitch abbreviations before beginning this project. The cable pattern adds visual complexity but is achievable for those with foundational crochet skills.