3 Crochet Techniques You Need to Master

If you’ve mastered the basic crochet stitches, congratulations! You’ve built a strong foundation in the world of crochet. Now, it’s time to take your skills to new heights and explore the realm of advanced techniques.

In this article, we will explore advanced crochet techniques. We will apply these techniques to basic crochet stitches. Thus, creating exciting variations of these basic crochet stitches.

Grab your yarn and crochet hook and let’s unravel the magic together and unleash the full potential of basic crochet stitches.

Abbreviations for Crochet Stitches

• ch – chain
• sl st – slip stitch
• hdc – half double crochet
• dc – double crochet
• yo – yarn over

Crochet Technique 1: Stitches in Back Loop Only (bl or blo)

When working in crochet, each stitch has two loops on top referred to as the front loop and the back loop. The front loop is the loop that faces you. While the back loop is the loop situated away from you, closer to the back of your work.

To work in the back loop only, follow the same steps as for the corresponding stitch but focus only on the back loop.

Single Crochet Back Loop (sc bl)

1. Insert the hook into the back loop of the designated st.
2. Yo and pull up a loop.
3. Yo and pull through the 2 loops on the hook.

Half Double Crochet Back Loop (hdc bl)

1. Yo and insert the hook into the back loop of the designated st.
2. Yo and pull up a loop.
3. Yo and pull through the 2 loops on the hook.

Double Crochet Back Loop (dc bl)

1. Yo and insert the hook into the back loop of the designated st.
2. Yo and pull up a loop.
3. Yo and pull through the first 2 loops on the hook.
4. Yo and pull through the remaining 2 loops on the hook.

Crochet Technique 2: Stitches in Front Post and Back Post

Front Post Double Crochet

Back Post Double Crochet

Front post and back post crochet stitches are advanced techniques. They involve working around the post of the stitch from the previous row instead of inserting the hook through the top loops as usual. These stitches create raised textures and can be used to add dimension and visual interest to your crochet projects.

Front Post Half Double Crochet (fpdc)

1. Yo and insert the hook from the front of the fabric to the back around the post of the designated stitch on the previous row.
2. Yo and pull up a loop.
3. Yo and pull through the 3 loops on the hook.

Front Post Double Crochet (fpdc)

1. Insert the hook from the back of the fabric to the front around the post of the designated stitch on the previous row.
2. Yo and pull up a loop.
3. Yo and pull through 2 loops on the hook.

Back Post Half Double Crochet (bpdc)

1. Yo and insert the hook from the back of the fabric to the front around the post of the designated stitch on the previous row.
2. Yo and pull up a loop.
3. Yo and pull through the 3 loops on the hook.

Back Post Double Crochet (bpdc)

1. Yo and insert the hook from the back of the fabric to the front around the post of the designated stitch on the previous row.
2. Yo and pull up a loop.
3. Yo and pull through the first 2 loops on the hook.
4. Yo and pull through the remaining 2 loops on the hook.

Crochet Technique 3: Stitches in the Third Loop

Crocheting in the 3rd loop is an intriguing technique that can transform your crochet stitches. The 3rd loop is located on the back side of the hdc or dc stitch, just below the top loops.

Half Double Crochet in the 3rd Loop

1. Yo and insert the hook in the 3rd loop of the designated stitch.
2. Yo and pull up a loop.
3. Yo and pull through the 3 loops on the hook.

Double Crochet in the 3rd Loop

1. Yo and insert the hook in the 3rd loop of the designated stitch.
2. Yo and pull up a loop.
3. Yo and pull through the first 2 loops on the hook.
4. Yo and pull through the remaining 2 loops on the hook.

Final Thoughts

We have explored what you need to know to modify the basic crochet stitches. You are on your way to mastering some of the advanced crochet techniques. You can create unique, textured, and visually captivating projects.

Crochet is a journey. By venturing beyond the basics, you’re embracing the artistry of this beloved craft. Embrace the challenge, savor the process, and enjoy the beauty that unfolds with every stitch. Happy crocheting!