Center Double Decrease Explained

Double decreases reduce three stitches to one stitch. There are several ways to work a double decrease, depending on the effect desired. With most double decreases, one stitch remains visible while the other two stitches will be partially hidden behind the dominant stitch. The direction of the dominant stitch determines whether the decrease is a left- or right-slanting decrease, or a vertical decrease. A vertical decrease is usually referred to as a “Center Double Decrease (CDD),” or “s2kp2.”

Above: Reflections Top

When several CDDs are worked one above another, a prominent vertical line is created, with the first and third columns of stitches merging into the center column. (For a slightly less prominent center stitch, knit the third stitch through the back loop before passing the first two stitches over it.)

CDDs are often used to shape the crowns of colorwork hats (particularly tams) because they create decorative spokes that radiate out from the center. It is a very common decrease in lace knitting and is usually flanked by two yarnovers. CDDs are also used to reduce stitches at the center front of a ribbed neckband on V-neck pullovers.

How to Do a Center Double Decrease (CDD) (also known as “s2kp2”)

Slip two stitches to right needle as if to knit them together (Figure 1), knit the next stitch (Figure 2), then insert the left needle from left to right into the two slipped stitches and pass them over the knit stitch. The result is a symmetrical double decrease (Figure 3).

And there you have it! You’ll see this technique used in many projects, such as the Reflections Top by Sarah Shepherd and the Daydreamer Tee by Susanna IC. The Center Double Decrease is a great tool for your knitting toolbox—we hope you find our tutorial helpful!

-Joni

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