Back Loop (BLO)
Crocheting in the back loop only is a technique used to create texture and pattern in your crochet fabric. It involves working stitches only through the back loop of the stitches from the previous row, leaving the front loop untouched. This creates a ridged effect on the front side of the fabric.
Instructions
Step 1
Looking at the top of your row, you will see a series of V-shaped stitches from the previous row. Each “V” has two loops: a front loop (closest to you) and a back loop (farthest from you). When crocheting in the back loop only, you’ll be inserting your hook through the back loop of the “V” leaving the front loop untouched.
Depending on the stitch you are using, you will complete the stitch as usual. For single crochet (SC), you would yarn over and pull through both loops on the hook. For taller stitches like double crochet (DC), you would yarn over and pull through two loops multiple times, as required for the stitch.
Remember that crocheting in the back loop only creates a unique texture and can be used for various patterns and designs. Play around with different stitch heights and combinations to achieve the look you want.
Below you will find some of the patterns, where I have used this technique.
what’s hooking
Patterns using this stitch
Hoooked Jute
When you crochet in super bulky/chunky yarn it definitely counts as a work out! Especially when you work with Hoooked Jute Yarn. The coarse natural material is anything but compliant. Still I am a huge advocate for this as it makes wonderful home decor items.Hoooked...
Crocheted Laptop Sleeve
time to cover the world in yarn!If, like me, you are on a mission to blanket the world in yarn, this pattern for a Crocheted Laptop Sleeve is the next step in that yarny journey! My initial challenge was picking the right yarn for the project. I had reservations about...
Crocheted Laptop Bag
Introducing the Dual-Compartment Crocheted laptop BagIf you’re anything like me, you know the struggle of keeping your bag organized. It can be frustrating to dig through your bag in search of your charger, notebook, or even your phone when everything is jumbled...
Crocheted Clothes Pin bag
The Crocheted Clothes Pin Basket: Where Should You Keep Your Unused Clothes Pins?Crocheting isn't just a hobby; it's a craft that brings warmth, creativity, and functionality to our lives. In the realm of practical crochet projects, the clothes pin basket stands out...
Crocheted Storage Basket
from yarn in a basket to a yarny basketKeep your home clutter free with your own crocheted storage baskets. The possibilities are endless, when you crochet your own storage baskets. You can choose to make smaller baskets and use as plant covers or storage for toilet...
Hoooked Jute
When you crochet in super bulky/chunky yarn it definitely counts as a work out! Especially when you work with Hoooked Jute Yarn. The coarse natural material is anything but compliant. Still I am a huge advocate for this as it makes wonderful home decor items.Hoooked...
Crocheted Laptop Sleeve
time to cover the world in yarn!If, like me, you are on a mission to blanket the world in yarn, this pattern for a Crocheted Laptop Sleeve is the next step in that yarny journey! My initial challenge was picking the right yarn for the project. I had reservations about...
Crocheted Laptop Bag
Introducing the Dual-Compartment Crocheted laptop BagIf you’re anything like me, you know the struggle of keeping your bag organized. It can be frustrating to dig through your bag in search of your charger, notebook, or even your phone when everything is jumbled...
Crocheted Clothes Pin bag
The Crocheted Clothes Pin Basket: Where Should You Keep Your Unused Clothes Pins?Crocheting isn't just a hobby; it's a craft that brings warmth, creativity, and functionality to our lives. In the realm of practical crochet projects, the clothes pin basket stands out...
Crocheted Storage Basket
from yarn in a basket to a yarny basketKeep your home clutter free with your own crocheted storage baskets. The possibilities are endless, when you crochet your own storage baskets. You can choose to make smaller baskets and use as plant covers or storage for toilet...