The back loop only extended single crochet (BLO ESC) combines two lovely techniques: the added height and drape of the extended single crochet, worked into just the back loop for a soft, stretchy, ribbed texture.
This one is a favorite for ear warmers, cowls, and anything you want to have a little give and a beautiful woven, ribbed look.
Back to Crochet Techniques & Stitch Library
Before You Begin
- This tutorial uses US crochet terminology
- I recommend a stitch marker in the first and last stitch of each row to keep your count
- I prefer to work in the back bumps of the foundation chain for a cleaner edge
- This post contains affiliate links — see the disclaimer at the top of this page
- If your stitches feel tight, go up a hook size
What You’ll Need
Hook and Notions
Yarn
- Any weight — worsted weight (#4) shown in tutorial for clarity
Abbreviations (US Terms)
- Ch = chain
- ESC = extended single crochet
- BLO = back loop only
- St(s) = stitch(es)
- YO = yarn over
Skill Level
Advanced Beginner
Gauge
Not important for this tutorial
Stitch Multiple
Any number of stitches
Foundation Chain
Add 1 to your desired stitch count
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “back loop only” mean?
Each stitch has two loops at the top that form a “V.” Working in the back loop only means inserting your hook under just the back strand — the one farthest from you. This leaves the front loop visible, creating a ribbed texture.
Do I need to know the extended single crochet first?
It helps! If you are new to the ESC, start with my Extended Single Crochet tutorial, then come back for this variation.
Why is the back loop only so stretchy?
Working in the back loop leaves the front loops free, which lets the fabric stretch — perfect for ear warmers and cowls that need to hug and give.
Back Loop Only Extended Single Crochet Instructions
Before you begin, make a slip knot and place it on your hook.
This stitch builds on the extended single crochet. New to the ESC? Start with my Extended Single Crochet tutorial, then come back for this variation.
To make a back loop only extended single crochet:
- Insert your hook into the BACK LOOP ONLY of the stitch (the loop farthest from you)
- Yarn over and pull up a loop — 2 loops on your hook
- Yarn over and pull through just the first loop — this is the “extended” step. You still have 2 loops on your hook
- Yarn over and pull through both loops — complete!
Foundation: Chain 21 (for a 20-stitch swatch)
Row 1 (RS): ESC in the 2nd chain from the hook and in each chain across. Turn. (20 sts). (Row 1 is worked normally; the back-loop-only begins on Row 2.)
Row 2: Ch 1 (does not count as a stitch), working in the back loop only, ESC in the first st and in each st across. Turn. (20 sts)
Repeat Row 2, always working in the back loop only, for a soft ribbed fabric.
You did it! You learned the Back Loop Only Extended Single Crochet!
You did it — you learned the back loop only extended single crochet! That soft, stretchy rib is perfect for cozy accessories that need a little give.
What You’ll Love About the Back Loop Only Extended Single Crochet
- Creates a soft, stretchy, ribbed texture
- Wonderful for ear warmers and cowls that need give
- Beautiful drape from the extended stitch
- Just one small change from the standard ESC
- Works beautifully in any yarn weight
Video Tutorial
Prefer to watch? Follow along with me in the step-by-step video tutorial below.
▶ Watch this tutorial on YouTube
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Common Beginner Mistakes
- Working into both loops instead of just the back loop
- Forgetting the “pull through one loop” extended step
- Working too tightly — go up a hook size if needed
- Losing count at the ends of rows
Practice Before Moving On
- Work several rows until working in the back loop feels natural
- Count your stitches at the end of every row
- Notice the pretty ridge the front loops create
Put This Stitch to Work
This stretchy stitch is made for cozy accessories. Keep learning:
- How to Extended Single Crochet — the base stitch this variation builds on
- Browse ear warmer & cowl patterns — perfect projects for this stretchy stitch
Engage With Us!
We would love to see how the back loop only extended single crochet is working up for you! Share your progress:
- Instagram & Facebook: Tag @AmericanCrochet and use #ACMakers
- Pinterest: Save this tutorial so you can always find it again!
Looking Ahead
Master the base stitch with the Extended Single Crochet, then explore more in the Stitch Library.
Helpful Resources
- Join our Facebook Crochet Community — pattern support, inspiration, and a warm community of makers
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Keep Learning
Ready to explore more techniques? Head back to the library: → Crochet Techniques & Stitch Library
Or start from the beginning with Crochet Fundamentals: → Crochet Fundamentals
