While stitches can be removed from the needle and left dangling while other
![Mirrored cables cabledouble](/images/cable/cabledouble.jpg)
Historically Irish knits were made by sailors while at sea and each famiy had their own signature cable pattern. If things went wrong at sea, and a sweater washed ashore, identification could be made.
Shown to the left are side by side cables crossing away from each other. The result is a giant braided cable.