The slip slip knit, or SSK, is a left-leaning decrease used in knitting to reduce two stitches into one stitch. It creates a clean and subtle shaping method that is commonly used as the mirror of a knit 2 together.
SSK creates a neat decrease line on the left side of paired shaping and is one of the most reliable ways to reduce stitches evenly. It also improves stitch control by training you to manage slipped stitches, while supporting shaping in areas such as sleeves, necklines, and accessories.
The slip slip knit is commonly used in sock shaping, hat crown shaping, raglan sweater construction, mitten shaping, lace patterns with directional design, and fitted garments that require structured shaping.
There are different ways to complete SSK, but here we're demonstrating the most basic technique to decrease stitches using this method.
Slip knitwise from the left needle
Slip the first stitch knitwise from the left needle to the right side needle in a smooth, clean motion. Repeat the same step with the next stitch, slipping it knitwise.
Joining slipped stitches in the back loop
Insert left needle tip into the front legs of the two slipped stitches. Then knit them together through the back loop by wrapping the working yarn around the right needle counterclockwise.