Illustrated Crochet Stitches

Many people find illustrated crochet stitches to be helpful in learning a new crochet technique. I am going to show you how to crochet with any stitch in back loops only.

First I want to tell you why you would want to only stitch into the back loops. By stitching only into back loops the front loop is left out and creates a long ribbing stitch down your row. If you continue this process through out the project, you will have these long ribbing stitches going down both sides of your work.

I like these ribbing stitches because they create visual interest. This ribbing also gives the crocheted project more "give" or "stretch" which is perfect for a variety of patterns; like hats that need to fit a variety of size heads, or cuffs where you want flexibility to get your hand through, but a snug fit around your wrist.

I mentioned that you can crochet with any stitch into the back loops. Some examples are using single crochet, half double crochet, and double crochet. These are the most basic crochet stitches and your project will have a nice ribbing effect if you choose to use any of these stitches. I posted another article Easy Afghan Crochet Instructions where I show you how to create a beautiful afghan using the back loop method and only a chain and single crochet stitch.

Please note that you loose this visual interest when you use a variegated type of yarn. The color pattern of the yarn hides the textural pattern.

This picture shows going through both loops like you normally do when you crochet.











This picture shows going through only the back loop.

Back loop crocheting is very easy and allows the beginner more design skill without increased stitch knowledge.

We will be adding more illustrated crochet stitches to our blog. If you have found this one helpful, please post a comment letting us know.

You can also check the links to the right and look under the illustrated crochet stitches "category" to find more posts!

Please visit our website at Knit and Crochet Hat Patterns.