Ribbed Slipover and Hat with Cables in Schachenmayr Universa - S6918AB - Downloadable PDF

Ribbed Slipover and Hat with Cables in Schachenmayr Universa – Pattern S6918AB

This free downloadable PDF pattern from Schachenmayr (pattern reference S6918 A/B) includes instructions for two coordinating knitted accessories: a ribbed slipover (pullunder) and a matching cabled hat (Mütze). Both designs are worked primarily in knitting, and the pattern is published by Coats PLC under the Schachenmayr label. The combination of classic ribbing with bold cable panels makes this a versatile intermediate-level project that pairs everyday wearability with textural interest.

Design Overview

Design A – Ribbed Slipover (Rippenpullunder)

The slipover is a sleeveless pullover — sometimes called a vest or tank — constructed in two main pieces: a back (Rückenteil) and a front, each featuring a structured combination of ribbing and cable panels. The silhouette is classic and fitted, making it a practical layering piece suitable for a wide range of sizes. The pattern provides instructions for three sizes, reflected in the stitch counts of 122, 134, and 146 stitches cast on for the back piece.

The construction begins with a ribbed hem (Bündchenmuster) worked over approximately 12 cm using slightly smaller needles (sizes 3–3.5 mm), which creates a neat, elasticated lower edge that holds its shape. The body then transitions to larger needles (3.5–4 mm) for the main rib pattern (Rippenmuster), which forms the primary fabric of the garment.

A key design feature is the incorporation of cable panels set into the body fabric. The pattern specifies a cable arrangement of Cable A, Cable B, and Cable A again — a symmetrical three-cable layout spanning a total of 64 stitches of cable pattern, measuring approximately 24 cm wide. An important technical note is that Cable A involves internal increases and decreases of 4 stitches within the pattern repeat; these additional stitches are not counted in the main stitch totals given throughout the instructions, so knitters must account for this carefully when following the pattern.

Design B – Cabled Hat (Mütze mit Zöpfen)

The matching hat is worked to complement the slipover, incorporating the same cable and rib motifs for a cohesive, coordinated look. Like the slipover, the hat uses the same needle sizes and stitch vocabulary, making it an excellent companion project for using up remaining yarn or for knitters who wish to practice the cable techniques on a smaller, quicker make before tackling the garment.

Techniques Used

• Knitting – the primary craft for both designs
• Ribbing (Rippenmuster / Bündchenmuster) – used for the hem and as the main body fabric; ribbing is a classic knit-purl combination that creates a stretchy, vertically textured fabric ideal for fitted garments
• Cable knitting (Zopfmuster) – the defining decorative technique; cables are created by crossing groups of stitches over one another using a cable needle, producing a twisted, rope-like or braided effect on the fabric surface
• Shaping with internal increases and decreases – specifically within Cable A, where 4 stitches are added and then removed within the pattern to create the cable's characteristic raised texture without disrupting the overall stitch count
• Needle sizing transitions – moving from smaller to larger needles between the hem and body sections to achieve the correct tension and drape

Stitches Used

• Knit stitches (rechte Maschen) – the foundation stitch used throughout
• Purl stitches (linke Maschen) – used in combination with knit stitches to form the rib pattern
• 2x1 and 2x2 rib variations – the ribbing structure alternates knit and purl columns in specific sequences as described in the pattern setup rows
• Cable stitches (Zöpfe) – worked across defined stitch panels; Cable A and Cable