Dad's Cable Sweater

Dad's Cable Sweater by Morgana Knits

What is Being Made

Dad's Cable Sweater is a classic men's pullover designed by Alexandra Giarmadourou and published by Morgana Knits. This intermediate-level knitting project features cable detailing and is available in five sizes ranging from Small/Medium (96 cm chest) through XXL (135 cm chest). The sweater is constructed using traditional knitting techniques and finished with a tailored fit suitable for everyday wear.

Techniques Used

This sweater employs several advanced knitting techniques that elevate it beyond a basic project. The construction begins with a twisted rib 1x1 pattern for the ribbed edges, which creates a refined, elastic finish. The sleeves are worked using the magic circle casting method, allowing both sleeves to be knitted simultaneously—a time-saving technique that also ensures consistent sizing between the two pieces. For back neck shaping, the pattern utilizes the German Short Rows method, a technique specifically chosen to minimize visible marks and create a professional, seamless appearance at the neckline.

Stitches Used

The primary stitches featured in this design include:

• Stockinette stitch – the main fabric base worked over the body and sleeves
• Twisted rib 1x1 – created by knitting through the back loop (ktbl) on the right side and purling through the back loop (ptbl) on the wrong side, used for cuffs and hem ribbing
• Cable stitches – the signature design element that gives the sweater its distinctive texture and visual interest

Materials and Tools

The suggested yarn for this project is Cascade 220 in colorway 2445 Shire, a 100% wool yarn with a worsted weight classification. Yardage requirements vary by size: Small/Medium requires 5 skeins, Medium/Large requires 6 skeins, Large requires 6 skeins, XL requires 7 skeins, and XXL requires 7–8 skeins. Each skein contains 100 grams and approximately 201 meters of yarn.

Essential needles and tools include 5 mm circular needles (or the size needed to achieve proper gauge), 4 mm circular needles for ribbing (typically one size smaller than the gauge needles), a cable needle for manipulating cable stitches, a tapestry needle for seaming and weaving in ends, and stitch markers to track pattern repeats and construction sections.

Gauge

The pattern is designed to a gauge of 17 stitches by 22 rows in stockinette stitch over 10 by 10 centimeters when worked with the larger needles. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for obtaining the finished chest measurements specified in the pattern.