Crocheting into the foundation chain can be tricky when you are starting out. Where do you put your hook anyway? While there are many ways to start out, the best way is to crochet into the back of the chain.
Benefits of Crocheting into the Back of the Chain
When you work into the back of a chain to begin your foundation row, it gives the edge a nice finish that looks similar to the end of your work.
So, for example, if you are working a scarf and want both ends to be the same (or as close as possible), the best way to do this is to work into the back of the chain.
This leaves the “V” part of the stitch facing the bottom of the work.
It’s also much easier to work into if you are working more stitches into the foundation chain, as in a blanket or other project with a border.
This can also be called working into the back bar of a chain.
Where is the back bump of a crochet chain?
Before we dive into how to crochet into the back of a chain, let’s take a look at the anatomy of a crochet chain.
The front of the stitch is made up of these little “V” shapes. A lot of people work under both loops of the V like a regular stitch, but I find this to be difficult and often tedious, so I avoid it.
Others work into just one loop of the V, which tends to stretch the chain out.
The best bet is to work into the back bump or back bar of the chain, seen here.
How to Crochet into the Back of a Chain (Video Tutorial)
This is one of my earliest video tutorials when my channel was a baby! Here I will show you this easy crochet technique.
Now, let’s take a look at a photo tutorial for each basic stitch. To practice, make a starting chain of 25 for each basic crochet stitch.
Crochet Tip: Remember not to count the loop on your hook or the slip knot when counting chains!
How to Single Crochet in Back Loop of Chain
When you work a single crochet stitch (sc) into the back loop of your chain you will insert hook into the 2nd chain from the hook.
Then, work a regular single crochet stitch as usual. The skipped chain will not count as a stitch.
How to Half Double Crochet in Back Loop of Chain
When working a half double crochet stitch (hdc) into the back loop of your chain stitch you will yarn over and insert your crochet hook into the 3rd chain from the hook.
Then, work a regular half double crochet stitch as usual. The turning chain may count as a stitch, be sure to check your pattern for this information.
How to Double Crochet in Back Loop of Chain
When working a double crochet stitch (dc) into the back loop of your chain you will yarn over and insert your crochet hook into the 4th chain from the hook.
Then, work a regular double crochet stitch as usual. The turning chain here almost always counts as a dc stitch.
I hope this post has shed some light on how to crochet into the back of a chain. I really love using this method to start my projects, even more than foundation single crochet!
If you’re ready to practice this technique, be sure to check out my library of free crochet patterns.
Happy Crocheting!
Amanda
