Crocheting in the Back Loop Only
Have you come across the abbreviation “BLO” in a crochet pattern? This shorthand stands for “back loop only” and it’s a great technique to master. Learning about crocheting in the back loop only will open up a bunch of new possibilities for you in your projects!
The good news? Crocheting in the back loop only is really simple once you’ve mastered basic crochet stitches (like single crochet, double crochet, etc.). In fact, you can crochet in the BLO of any and all crochet stitches that have that signature “v” on top.
Ready to try it? Let’s begin! To practice this stitch, all you’ll need is yarn and a hook. I recommend beginning with worsted weight yarn in a light color (easier to see and count your stitches), and a size I/5.50mm hook, but use whatever works best for you.
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How to Crochet in the Back Loop Only
Every basic crochet stitch results in the same “v” shape on top. That “v” is made with two loops, the front and the back. The front loop is the loop closest to you and the back loop is furthest from you.
Step One: Begin Your Stitch
The first step of working in the BLO is to begin your stitch as you usually would. So if you’re working a half double crochet or double crochet, you’ll begin by yarning over. Or if you’re working a single crochet, you won’t yarn over.
Step Two: Insert Your Hook
Next, instead of inserting your hook under both loops of the “v” as usual, insert your hook under only the back loop (pretty obvious where this stitch got its name, huh?).
Step Three: Complete Your Stitch
Once you’ve inserted your hook under the BLO, complete your stitch as usual. So if you’re working a half double crochet, you’ll yarn over, pull your hook back through, yarn over and pull through all three loops on your hook.
This technique can be performed whether you’re crocheting in rows or in the round. Also, note that occasionally you’ll come across a pattern where this is abbreviated “BL” instead of “BLO”.
When and Why to Crochet in the Back Loops Only
So, why would a crocheter want to crochet in the back loops only? Well, there are plenty of reasons! Let me tell you a few.
Texture
When you crochet in the BLO, there is texture created by the remaining, unworked front loops of each stitch. This horizontal texture can add a striped detail whether working in rows or rounds, from blankets and garments to baskets and hats.
Ribbing and Stretch
One of my favorite reasons for crocheting in the BLO is to add ribbing and stretch to hats and garments!
The fabric created by crochet isn’t exactly known for being stretchy and flexible. But when you work repeated rows in the back loops around a hat brim, a sleeve cuff, or a sweater hem, you will find this gives you lots of stretch.
Amigurumi Shaping
Amigurumi (Japanese for a crochet stuffed toy) benefits from crocheting in the back loops only all the time, as different shapes must be made to achieve the three dimensional results.
This is especially helpful when going from a flat shape, like a circle, to a cylindrical shape that can be stuffed. If you crochet a flat circle in single crochet stitches, then work just one round in the BLO and then switch back to regular stitches, you’ll begin to form a cylinder.
Additionally, many amigurumi patterns will include a round in the back loops only just to leave the front loops remaining. Then later in the pattern, the yarn will be reattached and a new shape will begin using those leftover front loops (such as a doll skirt).
I hope this walked you through the steps you needed to start crocheting in the back loop only for yourself! If you’d like to see a video tutorial of this method, check this out. And if you’re looking for more stitch tutorials, take a peek here.
Happy crocheting!
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All rights reserved. Designed and written by Jennifer Percival. This pattern is property of Crochet to Play. The written pattern and images are for personal use only. Please do not redistribute, transfer, or sell the pattern or images, in part or in whole. Thank you.
