How to Back Loop Double Crochet (BLO dc) For Beginners

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Symbol:

The back loop-only symbol can be written at the base of the double crochet symbol to represent the BLO double crochet.

Crochet Tutorial: Single Crochet in the Back Loop Only (BLO)

Materials List

• Yarn: Worsted weight yarn (Category 4) or yarn of your choice for practice
• Hook: US Size I-9 (5.5 mm) crochet hook (or suitable size for your chosen yarn)
• Other Supplies (Optional):
  • Tapestry needle (for weaving in ends)
  • Scissors
  • Stitch markers

Key Abbreviations (US Terms)

• ch – chain
• st(s) – stitch(es)
• sc – single crochet
• BLO or BL – back loop only

Special Notes

• Working single crochet in the back loop only (BLO) creates a ribbed texture that is popular in patterns for scarves, cuffs, collars, and more.
• The back loop is the part of the stitch that is farthest from you when holding your work in standard orientation.
• You may see this technique written as “BLO” or “BL” in patterns.

Step-by-Step Pattern: Single Crochet in the Back Loop Only

1. Start with a Row of Single Crochet

• Begin with a foundation chain and a row of single crochet (sc) as you normally would.
• Example Practice Row:
  1. Ch desired number of stitches (e.g., 21).
  2. Sc in second chain from hook and in each ch across.

2. Chain 1 and Turn

• At the end of your row, ch 1 (this is your turning chain).
• Turn your work so you are ready to crochet the next row.

3. Identify the Back Loop

• Look at the top of the row of stitches:
  • You will see each stitch forms a sideways V shape at the top.
  • The loop closest to you is called the front loop.
  • The loop furthest from you is called the back loop.

4. Insert Hook into the Back Loop Only

• For each stitch, insert your hook into the back loop only (the strand furthest from you), not under both loops as usual.

5. Complete a Single Crochet

• Yarn over (yo) and pull up a loop (2 loops on hook).
• Yarn over (yo) and pull through both loops on the hook.
• Repeat steps 4–5 across the row, always working in the back loop only.

6. Continue Additional Rows

• At the end of each row:
  • Ch 1 (turning chain)
  • Turn your work
  • Repeat single crochet (sc) in the back loop only across the row.

Pattern Correction

• Correction: Make sure to keep your tension consistent when working in the back loop, as it can sometimes make your stitches looser or tighter than usual.
• Do not insert your hook under both loops unless the pattern specifically instructs you to do so.

Tip

• For a defined ribbed effect: Work every row in back loop only.
• For a subtle texture: Alternate rows in BLO with regular single crochet rows.
• Easy Reference: If you forget which loop is the back loop, simply lay your work flat—the loop farthest away from you as you stitch is always the back loop.

Conclusion

Learning to single crochet in the back loop only (BLO) adds a versatile and visually interesting ribbed texture to your crochet projects. This technique is simple to master and can be applied to a wide array of patterns, from scarves to blankets and garments. With this foundational skill, you can enhance your crochet work with beautiful and functional texture.