In knitting, there are multiple decrease techniques. Knit two together (K2Tog) is the most common technique that works for all knitting needles and projects. The right-leaning decrease is a basic way to reduce stitches in the row or round to give projects shapes and designs. However, some projects require more. K2TOG left means 'knitting two stitches together that is left-leaning'. It creates a beautiful, neat shape. However, it is a bit more complicated than the basic knit version. Want to know more? Let’s take you into the details of K2TOG-L with step-by-step instructions and tips in this blog.
Understanding K2TOG Left
Knit two-together-left abbreviated as K2TOG-L is basically knitting two stitches together creating a left-leaning decrease. Read our blog on how to knit two together (K2TOG) before you go ahead. A handy trick from Wendy Peterson who as a new knitter noticed her right-leaning decreases were neater than her left-leaning ones and she went on to work on her left-leaning decreases with the basic knit stitches. K2TOG left gives your fabric a crisp, angled edge, making this technique important. One of the benefits is that it allows you to make the fabric smoother and provide an even appearance. You can create a balanced shape by knowing how to knit K2TOG-left, and it is useful for items like shawls, caps, and even intricate lace patterns.
Knitting Needles - You can explore the knitting decrease with any knitting needles in your toolkit. Just keep in mind two things- the comfortable knitting needle type and the knitting needle size matching the yarn weight. Circular knitting needles from Lantern Moon are versatile and allow round and back-and-forth knitting, which helps you create left-leaning decreases in sweaters or blankets. You can choose from Destiny Fixed Circulars or individual interchangeable needles. With one of the handcrafted knitting needle sets you can explore multiple needle sizes in one place. The premium ebony wood has a smooth surface that allows yarn to flow while the tip is precise. Lightweight and warm it is perfect for all knitters.
Make sure you have all the knitting accessories such as stitch markers, a finishing needle, and a scissor.
Difference between K2TOG and K2TOG-L
Both k2tog and k2tog-l are instructions to knit two stitches together, however, the first is a decrease that leans right and the latter leans left. The decrease formed with k2tog is smooth while k2tog-l creates a stepped appearance.
Step-by-Step Instructions to K2TOG-L
It's time to learn how to knit K2TOG-left. Work to the stitch where are instructed to decrease if you are following a pattern or where you want to place your decreasing shape.
Step 1 - Insert the right-hand needle tip knitwise into the first stitch.
Step 2 - Bring the needle behind the first stitch and through the back loop of the second stitch.
Step 3 - Take the working yarn round the needle, then bring the new stitch back out the same way you went in.
Step 4 - The right-hand needle comes out between the two stitches. Push the first stitch off the left-hand needle, but keep the second one where it is.
Step 5 - Pull on the loop of the second stitch until you've removed all the excess yarn from the first stitch, which should lie snugly against the new stitch.
Step 6 - Let the second loop drop off the left hand needle. Don't worry if it looks big; excess yarn is pulled out as you work the next stitch.
Step 7 - The new stitch on your right hand needle will now be too loose. Pull firmly on the working yarn to bring it back to the right size.
Finished. Neat, small left-leaning decreases!
With continued practice, you will get more comfortable with the technique. Refer to our blog to learn eight decreasing techniques.
Some alternatives to the K2tog-L () decrease in knitting include:
- Slip, slip, knit (SSK): A left-leaning decrease that involves slipping the first and second stitches knitwise, then knitting them together through the back loops. Refer to our blog on mastering the slip slip knit (SSK) decrease technique.
- Slip, yank, twist, knit (SYTK): Another left-leaning decrease
- La Maison Rililie's left-leaning K2tog (LK2tog): Some say this is one of the best left-leaning decreases
- P2Togtbl: A left-leaning decrease that involves purling two stitches together through the back loops
When to Use K2TOG Left?
K2TOG is required when you want to decrease the edge of the garment and make the edge slant to the left. You can work on any project. Lace knitting patterns put the technique to good use. Even for hats, socks and sweaters, K2TOG left brings neatness.
Tips For Success
While K2TOG left is simple, there are a few tips that can help make it easier and more effective:
- If you've never applied this technique before, begin by practicing with a leftover yarn.
- Stitch markers come in very handy when knitting large projects. To keep track of decreases in the project, like sweaters or hats, place stitch markers at the start of each round.
- Use a good grip needle, like wooden knitting needles from Lantern Moon, when working with slippery yarn.
- It is important to maintain even tension when working to decrease stitches.
There are countless ways to shape and style your knitting items once you learn the K2TOG-left stitch. Knitting lovely things like mittens, sweaters, shawls, socks, and caps will come naturally to you with experience and the right tools. So gather your yarn, choose your needles, and get started!