to knit all 5 panels together at the same time would require 249 sts - and while this may seem easy enough to knit with in the beginning it would become too large and heavy as your work progresses which is why they suggest working in 5 separate panels.

However, if you insist on going ahead with this just cast on the whole 249 sts and work as follows -

on the first 49 sts work as for the cable panel, on the next 51 sts work as for the box stitch panel, next 49 sts for the cable panel again, next 51 sts for the box stitch panel and the last 49 sts for another cable panel - it's as simple as that, then you just follow the pattern instructions for each panel til it gets to the length you want - this is where it may get confusing especially if you get the panel instructions mixed up.

the panels would be easier to work with and then just stitch them together when done. Not so heavy and cumbersome to work with and less confusion when working the pattern stitches.

the knit 4 rows with the wrong side facing just means that after you have finished putting all the panels together you need to pick up and knit the required no of stitches for the borders and work another 4 rows - then cast off when the wrong side of your work is facing you.

Good luck

You need to usa a larger hook for everything. Not just your foundation chain. And half double is my fave of all the stitches, when I am trying to do something simpler. It is a simple stitch that is much quicker than single. You get the finished product much faster. There are many patterns you can use and a lot of advice to help you on crochet pattern central. attention to there stitch patterns directory. That is where you will find a lot of interesting pattern stitches you can try, I have been crocheting for 24 years. It is my only addiction.

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