Master the BLO/FLO Half Double Crochet with Decrease

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Materials and Tools
3. Foundation Row
4. Alternating Half Double Crochet Back Loop Only Front Loop Only Stitch
5. Row 2: Alternating Stitches
6. Ending the Row
7. Repeating the Pattern
8. Working in the Round
9. Increasing and Decreasing
10. Final Thoughts

Introduction

Welcome to my crochet tutorial! In this video, I will be teaching you how to crochet the alternating half double crochet back loop only front loop only stitch. This stitch is perfect for adding texture to your projects and creating a stretchy fabric without any holes or gaps. It's a simple stitch that anyone can learn, so let's get started!

Materials and Tools

Before we begin, let's gather the materials and tools you'll need for this project. You will need a scrap ball of yarn, preferably a worsted weight yarn, and a 5mm crochet hook. If you don't have these exact materials, feel free to use whatever you have on hand. Now that we have everything ready, let's move on to the next step.

Foundation Row

To start off, we need to create a foundation row. We will chain a certain number of stitches, depending on the size of the project, plus one additional chain. For example, if you want to create a swatch, you can chain 21 stitches. Flip your chain over and work in the back bump of the chain. Insert your hook into the second chain from the hook and yarn over. Pull up a loop and you should have three loops on your hook. Yarn over again and pull through all three loops to complete a half double crochet stitch. Continue working one half double crochet stitch in each chain across for a total of 20 half double crochets.

Alternating Half Double Crochet Back Loop Only Front Loop Only Stitch

Now that we have our foundation row, we can start working on the main stitch pattern. The alternating half double crochet back loop only front loop only stitch creates a raised texture that looks like mini post stitches or waffle stitches. It adds a unique touch to your projects and is super easy to do.

To begin, chain one and turn your work. For the first stitch of the row, we will be working in the back loop only. Look at the top of your stitches and identify the back loop, which is the furthest loop from you when looking at it facing you. Yarn over and insert your hook into the back loop only. Yarn over again and pull up a loop, then yarn over and pull through all three loops to complete a half double crochet in the back loop only.

Next, we will work in the front loop only for the next stitch. Yarn over and insert your hook into the front loop only of the next stitch. Yarn over and pull up a loop, then yarn over and pull through all three loops to complete a half double crochet in the front loop only. Now, we will alternate between back loop only and front loop only stitches for the rest of the row.

Continue alternating between the back loop only and front loop only stitches until you reach the end of the row, except for the last stitch. For the last stitch, it is recommended to work a half double crochet in both loops to create a nicer and straighter edge. This helps prevent any gaps or unevenness that may occur when working in only one loop. Repeat this pattern for each row to create the desired height for your project.

Row 2: Alternating Stitches

To begin the second row, chain one and turn your work. Start by working a half double crochet in the back loop only, just as we did in the first row. Yarn over and insert your hook into the back loop only, then yarn over and pull up a loop. Yarn over and pull through all three loops to complete a half double crochet in the back loop only.

Now, we will work a half double crochet in the front loop only for the next stitch. Yarn over and insert your hook into the front loop only of the next stitch. Yarn over and pull up a loop, then yarn over and pull through all three loops to complete a half double crochet in the front loop only. Continue alternating between the back loop only and front loop only stitches for the rest of the row.

Remember to end the row with a half double crochet in both loops to maintain a straight edge. This will ensure that your project looks neat and professional.

Ending the Row

When you reach the end of each row, whether it's row 1 or any subsequent row, it's important to pay attention to the last stitch. Typically, you would continue the alternating pattern until the last stitch and end with either a back loop only or front loop only stitch. However, for a cleaner edge, it is recommended to work a half double crochet in both loops of the last stitch. This helps to eliminate any gaps or unevenness that may occur when working in only one loop. By working this final stitch in both loops, you will achieve a straight and polished edge.

Repeating the Pattern

Once you have mastered the alternating half double crochet back loop only front loop only stitch, you can continue repeating the pattern to achieve the desired length for your project. Simply chain one, turn your work, and repeat the alternating stitch pattern for each row. You can create scarves, blankets, hats, or any other crochet item using this stitch pattern. Play around with different yarn colors and experiment with different stitch combinations to create unique and beautiful pieces.

Working in the Round

While we have been discussing working in rows so far, the alternating half double crochet back loop only front loop only stitch can also be worked in the round. The process is very similar to working in rows, but you will be creating rounds rather than rows. Start with a foundation round of half double crochet stitches, and then begin the alternating stitch pattern on the next round. Continue repeating the stitch pattern for each round until you achieve the desired circumference for your project.

Increasing and Decreasing

If you want to adjust the size of your project, you can easily increase or decrease the number of stitches. To increase, simply add more stitches to your foundation row or round. To decrease, you can use the half double crochet decrease technique. Work a half double crochet in the back loop only and a half double crochet in the front loop only, then yarn over and pull through all loops to decrease by one stitch. Experiment with different stitch combinations and techniques to create the perfect size for your project.

Final Thoughts

The alternating half double crochet back loop only front loop only stitch is a versatile and beautiful stitch pattern that can add texture and interest to any crochet project. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced crocheter, this stitch is easy to learn and can be used in a variety of projects. Get creative with your yarn choices and experiment with different colors and textures to create unique and stunning pieces. Have fun with the process and enjoy the satisfaction of creating something beautiful with your own two hands.

Highlights

• Learn how to crochet the alternating half double crochet back loop only front loop only stitch
• Create a textured and stretchy fabric without any holes or gaps
• Use a scrap ball of yarn and a 5mm crochet hook for this project
• Work in the back loop only and front loop only to achieve the desired texture
• Finish each row with a half double crochet in both loops for a neat edge
• Repeat the stitch pattern to create scarves, blankets, hats, and more
• Experiment with different yarn colors and stitch combinations for unique creations
• Explore working in the round and adjusting the size of your project

FAQ

Q: Can I use a different weight of yarn for this stitch? A: Yes, you can use a different weight of yarn, but keep in mind that it will affect the size and drape of your project.

Q: Why do I need to work the last stitch in both loops? A: Working the last stitch in both loops helps to create a straight edge and prevent gaps or unevenness.

Q: Can I use this stitch for amigurumi projects? A: While this stitch is not commonly used for amigurumi projects, you can experiment with it to add texture to your creations.

Q: Can I use this stitch for a baby blanket? A: Absolutely! This stitch will create a soft and textured fabric that is perfect for a cozy baby blanket.

Q: How can I make my project larger or smaller? A: To make your project larger, simply add more stitches to your foundation row or round. To make it smaller, decrease the number of stitches.

Q: Is this stitch suitable for beginner crocheters? A: Yes, this stitch is beginner-friendly and can be mastered with a little practice. Start with a small swatch to get the hang of it.

Q: Can I use this stitch for a hat? A: Yes, this stitch can be used to create a textured hat. Experiment with different color combinations for a unique look.

Q: How do I change colors with this stitch? A: To change colors, simply finish your last stitch in the old color and start the next stitch with the new color. Weave in the ends to secure the yarn.

Q: Can I use this stitch for a scarf? A: Absolutely! This stitch creates a beautiful texture that will make your scarf stand out. Play around with different color combinations for a stunning result.

Q: Are there any other stitches that pair well with this stitch? A: Yes, you can experiment with combining this stitch with other stitches to create unique patterns and textures. Try incorporating single crochet or slip stitches for interesting effects.