To crochet ribbing, a common technique is to work single crochet stitches just in the back loop of the previous row. This method is specifically mentioned as creating ribbing.
Creating Ribbing with Single Crochet Back Loop Only (sc BLO)
The ribbing effect is achieved by inserting your hook only into the back loop of each stitch from the row below, rather than under both loops (which is standard single crochet). The reference highlights that the front Loops that are unworked is what makes the ribbing. By consistently skipping the front loop and working only in the back loop, the unworked front loops are pushed forward, creating a raised horizontal line that resembles knitted ribbing.
Steps for Single Crochet Ribbing
- Work your foundation row: Start with a chain and then work a row of standard single crochet stitches.
- Turn your work: At the end of the row, chain one and turn your piece.
- Identify the back loop: When looking at the top of the stitches from the previous row, you'll see two loops forming a "V". The loop furthest away from you is the back loop.
- Work sc in the back loop: Insert your hook only into the back loop.
- Complete the single crochet: Yarn over and pull up a loop (you now have two loops on your hook). Yarn over and pull through both loops.
- Repeat: Continue working single crochet stitches in the back loop of each stitch across the entire row.
- Continue rows: At the end of each subsequent row, chain one, turn, and repeat steps 3-6, always working sc BLO.
As you work multiple rows using this technique, you will notice the unworked front loops forming visible ridges on the surface of your fabric, creating the distinct ribbed texture.
Why Use This Method?
- Texture: Creates a flexible, textured fabric that mimics knitted ribbing.
- Stretch: Provides elasticity, making it ideal for edges of hats, sleeves, or garments.
- Simplicity: Based on a fundamental stitch (single crochet) with a simple modification (working only in the back loop).
By consistently working single crochet stitches into the back loop only, you effectively create a ribbed fabric where the unworked front loops form the raised ridges, as described in the provided information.
