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!
![How to Work a SSK Decrease How to Work a SSK Decrease](http://irepo.primecp.com/2018/01/359313/how-to-work-a-ssk-knit-decrease_Large500_ID-2576906.png?v=2576906)
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.
![](http://irepo.primecp.com/2018/11/392421/step-2_Large600_ID-2982424.jpg?v=2982424)
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.
![](http://irepo.primecp.com/2018/11/392422/Step-3_Large600_ID-2982448.jpg?v=2982448)
Step 4
Put both stitches back on your left-hand needle.
![](http://irepo.primecp.com/2018/11/392420/Step-4_Large600_ID-2982436.jpg?v=2982436)
Step 5
Knit both of these slipped stitches together through the back loop.
![](http://irepo.primecp.com/2018/11/392423/Step-5_Large600_ID-2982460.jpg?v=2982460)
Step 6
And now you've completed your decrease!