There are many different cable patterns. What they all have in common is that the pattern looks like a braid.
I knitted this children’s hat in rounds using only knit stitches. The cable effect is created by crossing the stitches in front of or behind the work. However, you don’t make much progress while knitting this way. On the other hand, the finished piece is particularly thick because the stitches are packed closer together due to the crossing. So it’s perfect for a winter hat for the kids.

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There are also other braided patterns, such as Entrelac. With this technique, you knit just a few knit stitches at a time and then pick up new stitches from the side edges. It’s a special knitting technique that creates particularly beautiful effects. Viewed from a distance, this piece also looks like it’s been braided. This braided pattern looks especially beautiful when made with gradient yarn.
Best regards, Ina