How to Crochet the Easiest Rib Stitch (Back Loop Single Crochet)

Q: What's the difference between back loop only and regular single crochet?

A regular single crochet stitch is worked through both loops at the top of the stitch, giving a flatter, more structurally secure fabric. Back loop only single crochet inserts the hook through just the back loop, leaving the front loop unworked. This creates a distinct ridge along each row, producing a textured, ribbed effect with noticeably more stretch than a standard single crochet fabric.

Q: Does working in only the back loop create more stretch or more strength?

Working through only one loop, as in back loop only single crochet, produces more stretch but less structural strength than working through both loops. For items that need to hold up to heavy wear over many years, a standard single crochet through both loops will be the sturdier choice, while back loop only is better suited to projects where stretch and texture matter more than maximum durability.

Materials & tools you'll need

4mm metal crochet hook · Medium-weight cotton yarn · Scissors · Tapestry needle (for weaving in ends)

Step 1 — Make a slip knot and chain 30

Start by making a slip knot and placing it on your hook. Chain stitch 30 times to create your foundation chain — this will be the base of your sampler swatch. As you work, you'll notice each chain stitch has a front loop and a back loop (a small bump running along the back of the chain). This back loop is the key to the whole stitch, so take a moment to find it before moving on.

If you want a deeper look at working into the back loop, check out our Back Loop Only Single Crochet tutorial.

Step 2 — Work the first row in back loop single crochet

Starting from your base chain, work a row of single crochet, inserting your hook only through the back loop of each chain stitch rather than the front loop. Wrap your yarn around the hook and pull through, then wrap and pull through again — that's one single crochet stitch, anchored only in the back loop. This first row can feel a little tight and tricky since the back loop of a fresh chain is narrower, so don't worry if it takes a bit of patience. It gets much easier from the second row onward.

Step 3 — Chain one, turn, and repeat across each row

At the end of every row, chain one stitch before turning your work — this chain keeps the sides of your rectangle straight. Skipping it can cause your work to narrow into a triangle shape, while treating the chain as an actual stitch can cause it to widen instead. Turn your work and continue working single crochet into the back loop only across the row. Repeat this process for about 10 to 11 rows, working only into the back loop each time, until the ribbed texture becomes clearly visible.

Step 4 — Finish and compare the ribbed texture

Once you've completed your rows, fasten off and weave in your ends with a tapestry needle. Take a look at your finished sampler: working through only the back loop (rather than both loops) creates a distinct 3D ribbed effect with a lot of stretch, since the unworked front loop is left free to flex. This makes the stitch great for hats, leg warmers, dishcloths, and scrubbies — though keep in mind that dense cotton yarn isn't ideal for hats, since it can hold moisture and stay damp in cold weather. For projects that need more structural strength than stretch, a standard single crochet worked through both loops is the sturdier choice.

Frequently asked questions

What's the difference between back loop only and regular single crochet?
A regular single crochet is worked through both loops, giving a flatter, more structurally secure fabric. Back loop only single crochet inserts the hook through just the back loop, creating a distinct ridge and a textured, ribbed effect with noticeably more stretch.

What can the easiest rib stitch be used for?
This stitch works well for hats, leg warmers, dishcloths, and scrubbies thanks to its stretch and texture. Dense cotton yarn is great for dishcloths and scrubbies but isn't ideal for hats, since it holds moisture and can stay damp for a long time in cold weather.

Does working in only the back loop create more stretch or more strength?
Working through only one loop produces more stretch but less structural strength than working through both loops. For items that need to hold up to heavy wear, a standard single crochet through both loops is the sturdier choice.

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