Crochet is a wonderful hobby that allows you to create beautiful and unique items. One technique that I often use in amigurumi is crochet front loop only.
However, it can be found in all types of patterns. The FLO technique is used to add texture and dimension to your fabric. Continue reading below to learn more about the technique and its benefits.
What is FLO Crochet?
Crochet front loop only, as the name implies, involves working in the front loop of a stitch only. You leave the back loop untouched. When you normally make a crochet stitch, you insert your hook under both loops at the same time.
By working into the front loop only, you can create different textures and effects in your fabric. The technique gives you the ability to make ribbing, ridges, and raised patterns.
Benefits of Crochet Front Loop Only?
There are many benefits to using the crochet front loop only technique. Some of these benefits are:
- Texture
Crocheting in the front loop only can create a unique texture and pattern. The crochet front loop only technique can be used to make raised ridges, ribbing, and more defined stitch patterns.
- Dimension
Using the crochet front loop only technique can add dimension to your fabric. The raised stitches create depth and visual interest in your projects.
- Versatility
Combining crochet front loop only with other types of stitches allows you to alter the appearance and texture of your projects.
What is the Front Loop in Crochet?
In crochet, the front loop refers to the loop of a stitch that is closest to you. It is the loop on the front of your project. By working into this front loop only, you can create various textures and dimensions in your fabric.
How to Crochet in the Front Loop Only
Crochet front loop only is a simple technique. To work in the front loop only, begin your crochet stitch as you normally would. However, instead of inserting your hook through both loops of the stitch, insert it through the front loop only. Continue with the stitch as usual, following the pattern instructions.
Tips for Crochet Front Loop Only
Here are a few tips and tricks for crochet front loop only:
- Consistent tension
Pay close attention to your tension. Maintaining consistent tension is important to ensure a clean look.
- Use the right size hook
Read your pattern instructions thoroughly to make certain you use the right size hook. Depending on the effect you are trying to create, you may need a smaller or larger hook.
- Take your time
Pay attention to what you are doing. Working into the front loop only requires you to pay more attention to your hook placement.
- Use stitch markers
Sometimes it can be hard to keep track of stitches. And distinguishing the front loop from the back loop can almost be impossible with fluffy yarn. Using stitch markers can make FLO crochet easier. You can check out the best crochet stitch markers here.
- Practice
Before you start a project that uses the crochet front loop only technique, practice. Make a swatch and work FLO stitches until you become comfortable with the technique.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crochet Front Loop Only
How is front loop only crochet different from regular crochet?
Front Loop Only (FLO) crochet differs from regular crochet by the loops the stitches are worked with. In regular crochet, you insert the hook under both loops of the stitch. In FLO crochet, you insert your hook under the front loop only.
How are Front Loop Only and Back Loop Only Different?
Front Loop Only (FLO) and Back Loop Only (BLO) are two crochet techniques. FLO involves working in the front loop only, while BLO involves working in the back loop only. Both techniques will create different textures.
What is FLO Crochet?
FLO crochet stands for “Front Loop Only” crochet. It is a technique in which you work only in the front loop of a stitch. By crocheting into the front loop only, you can create texture and dimension in your fabric.
What is the front loop in crochet?
A crochet stitch typically consists of two loops. There is a front loop and a back loop. The front loop refers to the loop that is closer to you. The back loop is the one furthest away from you.
Does front loop only create a different texture?
Yes, working in the front loop only (FLO) can create a different texture. Working only into the front loop can create dimension, define stitches, and create a textured fabric.
The crochet front loop only technique can add depth, texture, and visual interest to your projects.
By working in the front loop only, you can create texture, dimension, and visual interest. Do not let the technique intimidate you. I put it off for a long time, and now I regret it. Crochet front loop only is extremely easy to learn.
Additional technique and stitch tutorials you can try:
- How To Crochet Invisible Decrease
- How To Hand Crochet Tutorial
- How To Weave In Crochet Ends
- How to Make a Crochet Triangle
- Learn to Crochet Decrease and Increase
The crochet front loop only technique will be a valuable addition to your repertoire. And share your experience trying this technique on our Facebook Page. We’d love to know.
