Debbie Bliss Tunic with cable detail Knitting Pattern

Debbie Bliss Cashmerino Chunky Tunic with Cable Detail

What is Being Made

This is a knitted tunic designed to fit bust measurements from 81–137 cm (32–54 inches), with finished widths ranging from 72–88 cm and lengths to shoulder from 74–80 cm. The tunic features decorative cable detail edgings that frame a front opening, making it a versatile layering piece suitable for various body sizes across four size options.

Techniques Used

The tunic is constructed using bottom-up seamed construction, meaning pieces are knitted from the cast-on edge upward and then sewn together. The garment is worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round, allowing for easier pattern management and shaping. Key shaping techniques include strategic cast-offs at regular intervals to create the upper arm and shoulder shaping, with decreases worked at the beginning of rows over multiple rows to achieve a fitted silhouette.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch pattern is a 2x2 ribbed texture (knit 2, purl 2), which creates vertical lines and elasticity throughout the body of the tunic. This ribbed pattern is established in the first four rows and repeated consistently. The tunic features two signature cable stitches:

• C6B (Cable 6 Back): Slip 3 stitches onto a cable needle and hold at the back of work, knit 3 stitches from the left needle, then knit the 3 stitches from the cable needle. This creates a cable that twists toward the back.
• C6F (Cable 6 Front): Slip 3 stitches onto a cable needle and hold to the front of work, knit 3 stitches from the left needle, then knit the 3 stitches from the cable needle. This creates a cable that twists toward the front.

These 6-stitch cables are worked as part of the decorative edgings that frame the front opening and add textural interest to the design.

Materials and Gauge

The tunic is knitted in Debbie Bliss Cashmerino Chunky yarn in the colorway Sky, a blend that offers softness and warmth. The pattern requires 19–24 balls of 50g yarn depending on size selected. Knitting is worked on 6mm (US 10) knitting needles and a cable needle for manipulating the cable stitches. The recommended gauge is 15 stitches and 24 rows to a 10cm (4-inch) square measured over the 2x2 ribbed pattern using 6mm needles, ensuring proper fit across all size ranges.

Difficulty Level

This project is rated intermediate, suitable for knitters with experience in basic shaping, cable work, and seaming. The combination of straightforward ribbed patterning with cable detail edgings and multiple shaping steps requires solid foundational skills and attention to stitch counts and row counting.