How to Work a SSK Decrease
This left-leaning single decrease is a handy skill for all knitters to know and a good mirror for the K2TOG!
In this video tutorial, Heidi Gustad teaches you how to work a SSK knit decrease. "SSK" stands for "slip, slip, knit." This knit decrease is worked over two stitches and decreases the overall stitch count in a row by one. This type of decrease leans to the left and produces a neatly placed ridge.
If you're looking to add a nice finished look to any type of project, be sure to give the SSK technique a try. You may discover your new favorite way to decrease your knitting! This is a very common type of decrease and is often paired with the k2tog decrease as the left-leaning version.
Watch and Learn
Instructions
Step 1
Work in pattern until the point where your pattern calls for the SSK.
Step 2
Slip the first stitch as if to knit.
Step 3
Slip the next stitch as if to purl.
Note: Many knitters learned this decrease as slipping both of the stitches knitwise. This is the more popular method of doing this decrease, but either way will produce the same decrease.
Step 4
Put both stitches back on your left-hand needle.
Step 5
Knit both of these slipped stitches together through the back loop.
Step 6
And now you've completed your decrease!
