Decreasing Slants - k2tog or ssk

If you have a hard time remembering when to use a k2tog and when to use a ssk while decreasing when using a chart, here’s a tip for you. The symbols on the chart follow the shape of how you work the stitch so use this guide:
/ follows the curve of the number 2 so you k2tog (knit two stitches together)
\ follows the curve of the letter S so you ssk
(slip 1 stitch knitwise, slip 1 stitch knitwise (or purlwise), then knit both of those stitches together through the back loop)

Blocking Acrylic Fibers

Blocking really finishes your knitting projects. Even if you are not using natural fibers, blocking is possible. Check out this link (http://beadknitterpatterns.blogspot.com/2009/11/how-to-block-acrylic.html) to block acrylics which will show you a before and after blocking photo along with detailed blocking instructions. Or click the title of this post to see the article.

Ribbing Transition

For a good looking transition from ribbing to stockinette or a pattern in the main portion of your garment, on the last ribbing row, SLIP every knit stitch purlwise and purl every purl ribbing stitch. On the next row, change to a larger size needle and begin the body of the garment.

Circular Needle Bind-Off

When binding off using circular needles, most times there will be a noticeable edge where the first and last stitch meet. To take care of that, using the tail of your yarn threaded on a tapestry needle, insert needle into the first bound-off chain to the left of the first stitch. Go under both loops of that chain, then insert the tapestry needle back down into the last chain (which is where your yarn tail came from). Pull slightly to even out and then weave the end into the back of your work.