In the double vertical decrease (S2kp), two stitches are decreased by slipping 2 stitches knitwise. Then, the next stitch is knit. Finally, the 2 slipped stitches are passed over the knitted stitch. This double vertical decrease is used for shaping in knitting. I used this technique in the Hydrangea Dishcloth and in the With a Twist Dishcloth. I like this method for the mitered square shaped dishcloths. The double decrease creates a straight vertical knit stitch when used in the center of the work. The video and written instructions below show how to do a double vertical decrease (s2kp) for right-hand knitting.
The Double Vertical Decrease (S2kp):
Steps to make a Double Vertical Decrease (S2kp):
| 1. Insert the right knitting needle into the front of second and then the first stitch as if to knit 2 together | ![]() |
| 2. Slip the 2 stitches off the left knitting needle and onto the right knitting needle | ![]() |
3. The 2 slipped stitches are now on the right knitting needle | ![]() |
| 4. Knit the next stitch from the left knitting needle onto the right knitting needle | ![]() |
| 5. Insert the the left knitting needle into the front loop on the 2 slipped stitches | ![]() |
| 6. Catch and hold the 2 slipped stitches onto the left knitting needle | ![]() |
| 7. Pass the 2 held slipped stitches on the left knitting needle over the knitted stitch on the right knitting needle | ![]() |
| 8. The double vertical decrease (slip 2 stitches, knit 2, pass the slipped stitch over the knitted stitch) is now on the right knitting needle | ![]() |
| 9. Tug the working yarn to tighten the double vertical decrease stitch | ![]() |
Repeat Steps 1 through 9 for the double vertical decrease (s2kp)
~coffeeteaknits.com
© 2025 Coffee Tea Knits. All text and images for personal use only. All Rights Reserved.








