K2tog: the right-leaning decrease
K2tog (knit two together) is the simplest knitting decrease: knit two stitches as one, leaning right. Learn it step by step and when to pair it with ssk.
By Julia WallinKnyt Co-founder and editor
K2tog (knit two together) is the simplest decrease in knitting. You knit two stitches as if they were one, turning them into a single stitch that leans to the right. It is the default decrease in most patterns, and the right-leaning partner of ssk.
How to work a k2tog
- With the yarn in back, insert the right needle knitwise through the front loops of the next two stitches at once, front to back, entering the second stitch from the tip first.
- Wrap the yarn as for a normal knit stitch and pull the new loop through both stitches.
- Drop both old stitches off the left needle.
You now have one new stitch, leaning right. One stitch has been decreased.
K2tog tbl: the left-leaning version
K2tog tbl (knit two together through the back loops) is the same movement worked into the back of the stitches. Insert the right needle into the back loops of the next two stitches and knit them together as one. The result leans left, so it is a quick substitute for ssk. The difference is that both stitches end up twisted, and the decrease sits slightly crossed against the fabric. Use it when a pattern asks for it, or when you want a left-leaning decrease and the twisted look does not matter. Where a smooth mirror of k2tog matters, ssk is the better choice.
When to use it
Use k2tog anywhere a pattern says decrease without specifying a type, and anywhere a right-leaning slant is wanted. In mirrored shaping the convention is k2tog at the end of a section (before a marker), with ssk at the start. The two lines of decreases then lean towards each other symmetrically on sock toes, raglans and hat crowns.
Common mistakes
- Catching only one stitch. You knit one and drop the other, and lose a stitch untidily. Check the needle before wrapping: it should sit through two loops.
- Splitting the yarn. Sharp tips through two snug stitches split plies easily. Slow down at the insertion.
- Forcing tight stitches. If you cannot get into both loops, loosen them gently at the needle tips rather than stretching them wide.
Frequently asked questions
What does k2tog mean in knitting?
Knit two together: insert the needle through two stitches at once and knit them as one. It decreases one stitch and leans right.
Is k2tog right- or left-leaning?
Right-leaning. Its left-leaning mirror is ssk.
What is the difference between k2tog and k2tog tbl?
K2tog goes through the front loops and leans right. K2tog tbl (through the back loops) leans left but twists the stitches. Ssk gives a cleaner left lean in most fabrics.
Why does my k2tog look neater than my ssk?
This is normal. K2tog is structurally tidier. Keep the ssk snug, or use an improved ssk, so the pair matches.
Why did I lose a stitch untidily on my k2tog?
You caught only one of the two stitches, knitted it and dropped the other. Before wrapping, check that the right needle sits through two loops.
Co-founder and editor of Knyt. Avid knitter!
