Today we are going to learn how to crochet the Front and Back Loop Single Crochet Stitch, perfect for beginners and has amazing texture!

Creating Texture with Front and Back Single Crochet Stitches

Hey there, fellow crochet enthusiasts! Today, I want to dive into the world of front and back single crochet stitches. These versatile stitches allow you to add a whole new level of texture to your crochet projects. By alternating between working in the back loop only (blo) and the front loop only (flo), you can achieve a beautifully textured fabric that will make your creations stand out.

If you’re not familiar with these techniques, don’t worry! I’ve got you covered. In this blog post, I’ll walk you through the steps of working with front and back single crochet stitches, share some tips and tricks along the way, and provide useful resources like my video tutorial and patterns to help you get started.

The beauty of using front and back single crochet stitches lies in the different effects they create. When you work in the blo, it creates horizontal lines or ridges on the right side of your fabric. On the other hand, when you work in the flo, it adds a different texture and appearance to your piece.  Alternating the two produces a wonderfully textured crochet fabric that will work wonders for your next crochet project.

One great thing about these stitches is that they are just variations of standard single crochet stitches. The only difference is that instead of inserting your hook through both loops of a stitch as you normally would with regular crochet, you’ll be working in either the back loop or front loop exclusively.

By switching between these two techniques within a row or even between rows, you can create an end result that has a variety of textures and looks. Plus, by playing around with different yarn weights and hook sizes, you can further customize the overall effect.

Whether you’re a beginner crocheter looking to expand your skills or an experienced crafter wanting to try something new, incorporating front and back single crochet stitches into your projects is definitely worth exploring. The possibilities are endless – from amigurumi patterns with amazing texture to scarves or blankets with larger gaps and a little stretch.

So, grab your hook, some DK or worsted weight yarn, and let’s dive into the world of front and back single crochet stitches. Get ready to create stunning textures and add a whole new dimension to your crochet projects. 

Easy Stitch Video Tutorial

In this video tutorial, I will teach you step by step how to crochet the front and back loop single crochet.  The skill level for this stitch is beginner. 

Front and Back Loop Single Crochet | Easy Tutorial

Photo and Written Tutorial

The front and back loop single crochet stitch is super easy, making it perfect for beginners. If you can chain and work a single crochet, you can work this stitch!

Materials
Yarn of choice (I’m using a DK weight cotton yarn)
Hook appropriate for yarn choice (check the yarn label if you are unsure, I’m using a size G hook)

Stitch Abbreviations
Chain (ch)
Single Crochet (sc)
Back Loop Only (blo)
Front Loop Only (flo)
Stitch (st)

How to work single crochet in the back loop:

Insert the hook in the middle of the stitch and underneath the back loop only. Work a single crochet the same as a regular sc stitch.

How to work single crochet in the front loop:

Insert the hook under the front loop only and come up in between the two loops of the stitch. Work a regular single crochet stitch.

Front and Back Loop Single Crochet Tutorial

Chain an even number of stitches (stitch multiple is an odd number plus one).

Row 1: Sc in 2nd ch from hook and each ch across; turn (you should have an odd number of stitches).

Row 2: Ch 1, (sc blo, sc flo) to last st, sc blo; turn.

Repeat row 2 for pattern.

Practice Pattern Using This Stitch

Find the pattern for this Color Block Bag I designed here!

Final Thoughts on the Front and Back Loop Single Crochet Stitch

This is such a great beginner-friendly stitch to have in your skill set! The texture is absolutely amazing and it’s super easy.

I hope you enjoy this tutorial!

Happy Crocheting!
Amanda