Knit 2 Together (k2tog)
Right-leaning single decrease: Insert the right needle as if to knit into
the second and fi rst stitches on the left needle at the same time. Now,
knit both stitches together and let them slide off the left needle. You
have decreased one stitch.
Slip 1, Knit 1, Pass Slipped Stitch
Over (skp)
Left-leaning single decrease: Slip the fi rst stitch on the left needle knit-
wise and knit the second stitch. Now, pull the slipped stitch over the
knitted one. You have decreased one stitch.
Slip 1, Knit 2 Together, Pass Slipped Stitch
Over (sk2p)
Left-leaning double decrease: Slip the fi rst stitch on the left needle
knit-wise, then knit the second stitch and the third stitch together.
Now, pull the slipped stitch over the two knit together.
Selvedge Stitches (selv st)
Selvedge stitches are worked to achieve a neat-looking edge. Unless
otherwise directed in the patterns, always slip the last stitch of the row.
Turn your work and now knit the stitch just slipped through the back
loop. Selvedge sts are always knit through the back loop, no matter
whether followed by a knit or purl stitch.
Purl 2 Together (p2tog)
Single purled decrease: Insert the right needle into the fi rst and second
stitch on the left needle as if to purl and purl them together. You have
decreased one stitch.Purl 3 Together (p3tog)
Double purled decrease: Insert the right needle into the fi rst, second,
and third stitches on the left needle as if to purl and purl them to-
gether. You have decreased two stitches.Knit 1 Through the Back Loop (k1-tbl)
Insert the right needle from right to left into the back of the fi rst
stitch on the left needle and pull the working yarn through. You have
twisted the stitch below the newly formed stitch.