Free Tree of Life Cable Knitting Stitch.
This stitch pattern creates a beautifully textured fabric, reminiscent of the branching structure of a tree. It features delicate cable crosses that sprout from a central, slipped-stitch “trunk,” all framed by a simple knit and purl background. The cables are formed using two primary techniques: the 2-stitch Right Purl Cross (2-st RPC) and the 2-stitch Left Purl Cross (2-st LPC). The rhythmic interplay of knit, purl, and cable stitches makes this an engaging project, resulting in a visually striking and tactilely pleasing fabric. It’s perfect for adding an elegant touch to sweaters, scarves, or home décor items.
2-st RPC Sl 1 st to cn and hold to back, k1, p1 from cn.
2-st LPC SI 1 st to cn and hold to front, p1, k1 from cn.
Abbreviations:
RS: Right Side.
K: Knit
P: Purl
Sl: Slip stitch purlwise (as if to purl, but without working the stitch)
cn: Cable needle
St(s): Stitch(es)
2-st RPC: 2-stitch Right Purl Cross – Slip 1 stitch to a cable needle (cn) and hold it to the back of the work, knit 1 stitch from the left-hand needle, then purl 1 stitch from the cable needle.
2-st LPC: 2-stitch Left Purl Cross – Slip 1 stitch to a cable needle (cn) and hold it to the front of the work, purl 1 stitch from the left-hand needle, then knit 1 stitch from the cable needle.
Cast On:
Worked over 17 sts
Knitting Directions:
Row 1 (RS): K1, p2, k1, p4, sl 1, p4, k1, p2, k1.
Row 2: P1, k2, sl 1, k4, p1, k4, sl 1, k2, pl.
Row 3: K1, p2, 2-st LPC, p3, sl 1, p3, 2-st RPC, p2, k1.
Row 4: P1, k3, sl 1, k3, p1, k3, sl 1, k3, p1.
Row 5: K1, p3, 2-st LPC, p2, sl 1, p2, 2-st RPC, p3, k1.
Row 6: P1, k4, sl 1, k2, p1, k2, sl 1, k4, p1.
Row 7: K1, p4, 2-st LPC, p1, sl 1, p1, 2-st RPC, p4, k1.
Row 8: P1, k5, sl 1, k1, p1, k1, sl 1, k5, p1.
Row 9: K1, p2, k1, p2, 2-st LPC, sl 1, 2-st RPC, p2, k1, p2, k1.
Row 10: P1, k2, sl 1, k4, p1, k4, sl 1, k2, p1.
Rep rows 1-10.
