Im trying out the aphrodite top from berroco yarns and its my first actual reading pattern attempt.
If someone could help explain what the following means:
Work in Pat St, dec 1 st each side every other side every other RS row twice, then every RS row 17 times .
I understand that there is a pattern stitch that I will follow but when do I start the decrease and how can I tell if its the right side, rs?
The right side should be specified in the pattern. If you are doing stockingette stitch, the right side is the side you want to show (with the little Vs). I don’t get the “every other side” bit. It seems to me that you will decrease on each end of EVERY OTHER right side row TWO TIMES, and after that on each end of EVERY right side row 17 times. I hope that seems clear. 
When you get to that line in the pattern, you’ll start your decreases.
The right side is usually the odd numbered rows, but in any case, you’ll be able to tell the right side because it’s where you see your pattern best.
Kayeknit & Ingrid,
Thanks for your help.
The pat stitch is r1 & r3 knit, r2 & r4 purl. r5: k1, yo twice, end k1, r6: knit, dropping yo’s.
Would I count the first knit as the “rs”?
Yes, the odd rows in this pattern are the right side.