In our previous blog on knitting decrease techniques, we walked you through the most common methods. In this blog, we’ll take a look at an advanced knitting decrease method. The central double decrease (CDD) technique is a handy skill for shaping garments, especially raglan sweaters and cardigans, accessories including hats and various other projects, especially colorwork and lace patterns. Let’s proceed with knowing more about the technique. Get your favorite knitting needles and yarn.
What is A Central Double Decrease?
Central Double Decrease (CDD) reduces three stitches with only the central stitch visible. It is a balanced method also known as s2kp2. Double decreases in knitting reduce three stitches to one stitch. With most double decreases, only one stitch remains visible taking prominence while the other two stitches are partially hidden. While decreases are either left or right, they are vertical in the case of CDD.
The decrease method is often used to shape the crowns of colorwork hats (particularly tams) adding to the design factor. It is also a common decrease method in lace knitting usually flanked by two yarn overs to maintain the pattern. The method also works for raglan sleeves of t-shirts, sweaters, or cardigans and the center front of a ribbed neckband on V-neck pullovers.
In case of repeats every round, CDD creates a prominent vertical line as the first and third columns of stitches merge into the center column. The effect looks neat and adds to the design.
What do you need for Central Double Decrease?
Before you practice the knitting decrease technique, gather supplies first.
Knitting Needles- You can choose any of your knitting needles. Whether you are working with double-pointed needles for hats or circular needles for sleeves, or even knitting back and forth with single-pointed needles for lace patterns. Just make sure you are working with tools that you are comfortable with.
Yarn- Any fiber or color that suits your project in yarn weight that matches your knitting needle size.
Accessories - Stitch markers are essential if you have CDD repeats. Choose a finishing needle in a size matching the knitting needles used for the project.
How to Do a Central Double Decrease (CDD)
The symmetrical double decrease includes slipping stitches and knitting two together. Knit your project according to the pattern instructions till you get to the point of working on a central double decrease.
Step 1 - Move two stitches from your left to the right knitting needle. Insert your working needle tip into these two stitches and pretend as if you are going to knit them together. However, here is the twist: Do not knit the stitches but slide them on the right needle. This step will not produce any new stitches but rearrange the original ones to prepare them for the decrease. For a clear idea, explore our guide on slip stitch in knitting.
Step 2 - Once you have those two stitches on your right needle, focus on the next stitch on your left needle. Knit this stitch the usual way. This stitch plays a very important role because it becomes the centerpiece of your decrease. It's the stitch that will remain visible after the decrease is completed.
Step 3 - Now, bring back those two stitches that you slipped earlier. Using your knitting needle tip, pick them up and carefully lift them over the stitch you just knitted and off the right needle. This technique pulls them over and out of the way, effectively merging three stitches into one. This final step tightens your knitting and focuses the fabric into a neat, single stitch.
Now that you're good to go with the CDD. Are you ready to apply it? Here are some amazing ideas:
Lace Knitting Patterns: Whenever you need to create noticeable neat decreases that form part of the design, the central double decrease not only creates a beautiful aesthetic but also helps maintain the integrity of the lace structure, ensuring that the pattern remains open and airy. To know more refer to our guide to knitting decreases in lace patterns.
Garments: When it comes to neat decreases, the central double decrease works beautifully for raglan sleeves or in the center of a V-neck. The technique is beneficial because in garment shaping it creates a clean, sharp decrease that helps maintain the structure and fit.
Accessories: Hats and mittens shine when you use the Central Double Decrease (CDD), especially in areas like the crown of a hat or the thumb gussets of mittens. This technique creates neat decreases that enhance the fit and finish of your projects. Combining rapid decrease in projects such as hats worked with CDD has a neat and clean finish.
With the central double decrease, you'll be able to achieve a clean and sleek look in your knitting projects. Selecting the ideal knitting needles for your work can make a huge difference. Soon, CDD will be your favorite go-to method for knitting projects.
Mastering decreases such as CDD requires practice. However, it also requires smooth knitting tools and accessories. Lantern Moon offers a collection of handcrafted ebony wood knitting needles and specially designed sets that offer a variety of sizes, tips, and cable lengths, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your project.