The Neatest Way to Decrease Two Stitches

When it comes to decreases, sometimes we need to reduce two stitches at the same time. It often happens in lace patterns and when we shape the crown of a hat or knit toys.

No matter why this decrease is required in the project, it’s better to make it as nice-looking as possible. Double vertical decrease (also called “double centred decrease”) is perfect for this job. It creates an even chain of stitches right at the centre of the decrease while turning three stitches into one and providing the shaping needed for the project.

Here’s how it works:

You can also watch every step described below in this video tutorial.

1. Work to the spot where you need to make a double decrease. Then insert the tip of the right needle from left to right into the first two stitches on the left needle as if you are going to knit them together.

2. Take the left needle out of these two stitches slipping them to the right needle.

3. Knit the next stitch.

4. Now pass the slipped stitches over the knitted stitch and off the right needle. Watch how to do it.

Voila! We’ve just reduced the number of stitches by two and formed a lovely perfectly symmetrical decrease. In the wrong side row, purl the stitch created by this decrease to keep the chain of stitches uninterrupted.

I used this decrease when I designed Snowflake Hat – a cute seamless beanie sized for preemie, newborn and 6 months old babies.

The pattern is now available in the Library of Free Knitting Resources. Click here to get to the Library and download the pattern.

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