Cable is like stitching with a tiny rope. It is highly texturized, resembling a real metal thread but made of synthetic materials not real metals. Use it to add elegance to a design, and when your project has specialty stitches that can show off Cable's texture. This thread is ideal for creating background patterns on canvas. On fabric, it is often used for decorative stitches or outlines, as in samplers. Resembling real gold or silver, it has a classic elegance and refined line. It is too thick and stiff to use in cross stitch or tent stitch...longer stitches that can show off it's twist are better.