Crocheting in the back loop can add a really nice structure to your work. We will show you how to recognize the back loop and how to crochet in the back loop only.

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Did you know that you can change the structure of your work by crocheting in the back loop only? You can use this technique to create a nice ribbing or to get a cool edge between the bottom and sides on things like crocheted baskets. Crocheting in the back loop only is a real crochet hack!!

The best thing about crocheting in the back loop only is that you already know how to do it. Yes, you read that right! Because if you can already crochet through both loops at once, you just need to learn how to identify the back loop.

Crocheting in the back loop (only) is usually abbreviated like so: bl / blo

How to identify the back loop

If you look at your work from the top, you will see a bunch of v’s. Each V is a stitch.

The part of the stitch (or the V) that is closest to you is the front loop (fl), while the part furthest from you is the back loop (bl).


How to crochet in the back loop (only)

  1. Insert your needle into the back loop (the leg of the V furthest from you) by pushing the hook in between the two legs of the stitch.
  2. Finish the stitch according to your pattern.

And that is how you crochet in the back loop (only)! Super easy, right?

This is what crocheting in the back loop looks like


Are you left-handed?

Check out how to crochet in the back loop only if you are left-handed in the video below.