Understanding front loop vs back loop crochet is a simple way to add texture to your crochet without learning new stitches. Instead of inserting your hook through both loops of the stitch as usual, you work into just one loop — either the front loop or the back loop. This small change can create ridges, stretch, and beautiful texture while still using basic single crochet.
In this front loop vs back loop crochet tutorial, you’ll learn how to work front loop only (FLO) and back loop only (BLO) in single crochet, see how each technique changes the fabric, and discover how alternating rows can create even more texture. These techniques are often used in crochet patterns to add interest to simple stitches.
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Front Loop vs Back Loop Crochet Tutorial Overview
- Stitch: single crochet worked in the different loops
- Style: Textured and easy
- Experience Level: Confident beginner
- Perfect For: Adding texture and detail to any crochet project
- Yarn: Sirdar Stories
I use the front and back loop crochet in the Spring Landscapes Crochet Picture Set.
What Are the Front Loop and Back Loop in Crochet?
When we work a regular single crochet stitch (US terms), we insert our hook underneath the 2 loops of the ‘V’, before we yarn over, pull through, yarn over, pull through 2, to complete the single crochet.
Working in the front loop and back loop in crochet means that we insert our hook into only one of these loops.
For front loop only crochet, we insert our hook into the loop closest to us.
For back loop only crochet, we insert our hook into the loop furthest away from us. See the stitch tutorial for photos.
Front loop only is abbreviated to FLO, whilst back loop only is BLO.
Front Loop vs Back Loop: What’s the Difference?
You’ll be surprised at the difference between front loop and back loop crochet. See the photos above: the left photo shows back loop single crochet, and you can clearly see the knit-like ribbed texture it creates. This is perfect for hat ribbing, sleeve cuffs, and anywhere you need a stretchy textured effect.
The photo on the right shows front loop single crochet and you can see that the created fabric is so much looser. This is great for anywhere you want some drape. You can also see the beautiful lines across it, making it perfect for creating texture and interest.
How to Crochet in the Front Loop Only (FLO)
You will need
You can try this tutorial with any yarn and a corresponding hook. I used:
- Sirdar Stories, 60% Cotton 40% Acrylic, 140m (153yds)/50g (1.76oz), DK
- 4.0mm Crochet Hook
- Tapestry needle for working in ends
- Scissors
Watch the Crochet Front Loop Back Loop Video Tutorial
If you prefer crocheting from a video tutorial, watch as I crochet the single crochet in the different loops:
How to Do Front Loop Only Crochet? – Photo Tutorial
This is how you work a single crochet in the front loop only:
- Start by locating the front loop of the stitch (image 1).
Insert your hook into the front loop only (image 2).
Yarn over (image 3).
Pull through a loop (image 4).
- Yarn over (image 5).
Pull through the remaining 2 loops to complete the single crochet in the front loop (image 6).
Continue to work all stitches through the front loop only to complete your swatch (images 7 & 8).
How to Single Crochet in the Back Loop Only (BLO) – Photo Tutorial
- Start by locating the back loop of the stitch (image 1).
Insert your hook into the front loop only (image 2).
Yarn over (image 3).
Pull through a loop (image 4).
2. Yarn over (image 5).
Pull through the remaining 2 loops to complete the single crochet in the back loop (image 6).
Continue to work all stitches through the back loop only to complete your swatch (images 7 & 8).
Alternating Front and Back Loops for Texture
Once you know how to work in the front loop and back loop with single crochet, there are so many amazing possibilities for creating texture simply by working in the different loops.
You can use this technique with other stitches like the half double crochet and the double crochet.
Working single crochet in the back loops is one part of overlay mosaic crochet, which you can try in this stunning crochet pillow pattern.
Another option is to alternate working in the front loop and back loop across a row, or alternating whole rows of front and back loop crochet, as I have here. As you can see, it creates an absolutely stunning texture.
FAQs
In front loop vs back loop crochet, the difference is which loop of the stitch you insert your hook into. The front loop is the loop closest to you, while the back loop is the one furthest away. Most crochet stitches are normally worked through both loops, but working in just one loop changes the texture and structure of the fabric.
In crochet patterns, BLO means back loop only and FLO means front loop only. These instructions tell you to insert your hook into just one loop of the stitch instead of both loops when making the stitch.
Crocheters use front loop vs back loop crochet when they want to create texture or stretch in their fabric.
Front loop only (FLO) creates decorative ridges and layered texture.
Back loop only (BLO) often creates ribbing and a stretchier fabric that works well for cuffs, hat brims, and garments.
Yes. In standard crochet stitches, the hook is usually inserted under both loops of the stitch, which creates a smooth and stable fabric. Working in the front loop or back loop only is a variation used when a pattern specifically calls for it.
Both techniques are beginner-friendly because they use the same basic stitches. The only difference is where you insert the hook, so once you know how to single crochet you can easily learn front loop or back loop crochet.
Yes. Alternating rows of front loop vs back loop crochet creates deeper ridges and textured crochet fabric. This technique is often used in blankets, scarves, and textured stitch patterns.
If you look at the top of a crochet stitch, you will see a small “V” shape.
The front loop is the loop closest to you.
The back loop is the loop furthest away.
Ready to Use Back and Front Loop Stitches in a Project?
If you’d like to see how I use front and back loop crochet in my designs, take a look at the Spring Landscapes Crochet Wall Art Pattern. It combines simple stitches with mix-and-match appliqué motifs to create customisable picture panels.
Or have a go at the reversible rainbow crochet placemats which use single crochet in the back loop as part of overlay mosaic crochet.
I hope you’ve enjoyed this tutorial, please do stick around and see what else you’d like to try on my website. You can find my other stitch tutorials here. You might like to try the moss stitch.
I’m Gemma, a crochet tech editor, designer and overall crochet enthusiast. I’m also a mum of 3 kids, and enjoy running, reading, walking and crafting, but mostly crochet!
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I have lots of crochet stitch tutorials over on my YouTube channel so please do check them out. Here are some you might like:
- Crab stitch
- Double treble crochet stitches
- Even berry crochet stitch
- Stacked double crochet
- Crunch stitch
Other crochet patterns you might enjoy
Don’t forget to check out my crochet patterns for more crochet inspiration.
- Vintage Crochet Handbag – with textured stitches and a mosaic crochet flap.
- Trailing Leaves Crochet Hat – these use crochet post stitches to create another textured pattern.
- Christmas Wreath Crochet Pattern – quick, easy and fun with a woodland theme.
Thanks for reading and happy crocheting! 🧶
