Front Loop Only (FLO) vs Back Loop Only (BLO): What's the Difference?

June 2, 2026

As you become more confident with crochet, you'll start seeing instructions like:

FLO
BLO

At first, these abbreviations can seem confusing, especially if you've only crocheted through both loops before. But don't worry—they're simple to learn and open up a whole new range of textures and techniques.

Working in the Front Loop Only (FLO) or Back Loop Only (BLO) changes the appearance, flexibility, and structure of your crochet. It's commonly used in amigurumi, garments, hats, baskets, and decorative projects.

In this guide, you'll learn what FLO and BLO mean, how to identify the loops, when to use each technique, and how they can improve your crochet projects.

Understanding Crochet Stitch Loops

Before learning FLO and BLO, it's important to understand the top of a crochet stitch.

If you look at the top of a completed stitch, you'll notice it forms a small "V" shape.

That "V" consists of two loops:

Front Loop – the loop closest to you.
Back Loop – the loop furthest away from you.

Normally, when crocheting, you insert your hook under both loops of the stitch.

When a pattern instructs you to use FLO or BLO, you'll insert your hook under only one of these loops.

What Does Front Loop Only (FLO) Mean?

Front Loop Only means inserting your hook under only the front loop of the stitch.

The back loop is left untouched.

How to Crochet in FLO

Locate the next stitch.
Find the front loop (the loop closest to you).
Insert your hook under only that front loop.
Complete the stitch as instructed.

The back loop remains visible behind your work.

What Does Back Loop Only (BLO) Mean?

Back Loop Only means inserting your hook under only the back loop of the stitch.

The front loop is left unworked.

How to Crochet in BLO

Locate the next stitch.
Identify the back loop (the loop furthest from you).
Insert your hook under only that loop.
Complete the stitch normally.

The front loop stays visible on the front of your work.

Why Use FLO or BLO?

Working through one loop instead of both changes the appearance and texture of your crochet.

Instead of creating a smooth fabric, it introduces subtle ridges and extra flexibility.

Different projects use FLO and BLO for different reasons.

When to Use Front Loop Only (FLO)

Front Loop Only is commonly used in amigurumi.

You'll often see it used to:

Create decorative ridges
Define clothing edges
Add texture
Attach additional crochet pieces later
Form neat turning points

Because the back loop remains exposed, it can also be used later to crochet another piece directly onto your project.

For example, some amigurumi patterns use FLO to create a skirt or ruffle by crocheting into the remaining back loops later.

When to Use Back Loop Only (BLO)

Back Loop Only is one of the most commonly used techniques in crochet.

It's often used for:

Ribbing
Hat brims
Sweater cuffs
Cardigans
Scarves
Basket edges
Decorative texture

Working in BLO creates horizontal ridges and makes the fabric much more flexible.

This is why many crochet garments use BLO ribbing.

FLO vs BLO in Amigurumi

If you enjoy making crochet toys, you'll encounter both techniques regularly.

Front Loop Only

Often used for:

Clothing details
Decorative shaping
Creating attachment points
Small texture changes

Back Loop Only

Often used for:

Defining the base of a piece
Creating folds
Adding flexible sections
Decorative ridges

Always follow your pattern, as the placement of FLO and BLO is intentional and affects the final shape.

How FLO and BLO Change the Fabric

Here's a simple comparison:

Crocheting Through Both Loops

Smooth finish
Strong fabric
Standard appearance

Front Loop Only

Decorative ridge on the back
Slightly softer fabric
Leaves back loops available

Back Loop Only

Decorative ridge on the front
Greater flexibility
Excellent for ribbing

Common Beginner Mistakes

Using Both Loops by Accident

When learning FLO or BLO, it's easy to accidentally insert your hook under both loops out of habit.

Slow down and identify the correct loop before each stitch.

Choosing the Wrong Loop

Remember:

Front Loop = closest to you.
Back Loop = furthest away.

Checking this before each stitch quickly builds confidence.

Tight Tension

Working through only one loop can initially feel different.

Try to keep your tension relaxed and consistent.

Missing a Loop

Because only one loop is used, the remaining loop stays visible.

Don't worry—this is exactly what should happen.

How to Read FLO and BLO in Crochet Patterns

Most patterns use these abbreviations:

FLO = Front Loop Only
BLO = Back Loop Only

Example:

Sc in BLO around

This means:

Work one single crochet into the back loop of every stitch.

Another example:

Round 12: FLO around

Work every stitch into the front loop only.

Tips for Success

Practice on a Small Swatch

Before using FLO or BLO in a project, practice on a small square.

This makes it easier to identify the loops.

Use Light-Colored Yarn

The stitch loops are much easier to see with light-colored yarn.

Read Ahead

Patterns often use FLO or BLO for only one or two rounds.

Pay attention to when the pattern tells you to return to crocheting through both loops.

Don't Panic About the Ridges

The visible ridge is intentional.

It's one of the reasons these techniques are used.

Projects That Commonly Use FLO and BLO

You'll often find these techniques in:

Amigurumi
Cardigans
Hats
Sweaters
Socks
Bags
Baskets
Home décor

Once you recognize FLO and BLO, you'll start noticing them in many crochet patterns.

Quick Reference Guide