If you want to add a fun 3-D texture to your projects, the crochet loop stitch is a simple technique that adds depth and softness. The fun part of this project that you can adjust the size of your loops so that you get a bigger or smaller puff on your project.
This technique looks great on pillows, scarves, vests, blankets and jackets. If you want to personalize a crochet bear, you could also use this stitch for added texture.
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When using this stitch, you can wrap the yarn around your finger, a chopstick or a pencil to get varying loop lengths. You'll want to have a base row or two applying the crochet loop stitch, Craft Passion explains.
Note that some patterns for this stitch call for you to wrap the yarn around your finger once, but you can wrap it twice for a firmer loop, Craft Passion recommends.
The loop stitch is not for the faint of heart. It's a purposeful design choice that can have a huge impact if you use it the right way.
The simplest way to practice this stitch is to start with a flat pattern. Starting at the end of your top row, insert your hook through the first stitch and wrap the yarn around the index finger on your inactive hand. Take your hook over and around the back of the yarn. Catch the far side of the yarn (that's behind your finger) with your hook, then pull through so that you have two loops on your hook. Yarn over and pull through both loops.
Keep in mind that you will likely need to add a row of single stitches after your row of loops. This ensures that you start on the same side with your loop stitch every time. This is important because the loops form on the opposite side of where you are adding them, June Gilbank says in the video tutorial at the bottom of this article.
You can add this stitch while you are in the middle of your project or as an added edging when you are finished. A round design gives you the freedom to add loop stitch in every single stitch because you don't have to worry about switching sides.
Try using a thicker yarn for a softer touch on scarves, mittens, and hats. This adorable scarf below uses a very large loop stitch and thicker yarn for an elegant take on the traditional crocheted scarf.
If you are a lefty, Planet June offers helpful tips to customize the stitch for the same charming results.
Make sure to share this fun stitch your crochet-loving friends so they can use this stitch to add more detail to their next project.
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