This tutorial shows how to work in the third loop only in the back. Similarly like working in the back loop only, working in the third loop only is done in the same way for all stitches: a single crochet (sc-3lo), a half double crochet (hdc-3lo), a double crochet (dc-3lo), etc. However, if you want to work in the third loop, your previous row or round should be made of half double crochets (hdcs).
Here it is shown how to make a half double crochet third loop only (hdc-3lo). I use stitches worked in the third loop only in my easy mini pillow and other patterns.
To find the third loop, you should look in the back side of you work. Here, behind the “v”, there is another loop called the third loop. To make a stitch in the third loop only, you have to insert your hook behind the “v”. Next, make the stitch as usually.
You can find my other free crochet tutorials for stitches here.
Also, take a look at my free crochet patterns here.
Good luck!
Photo instructions
Row 1
1. Start by chaining any number of chains. You will start working in the third chain from your hook.
2. So, make a half double crochet in the third chain from your hook.
3. Continue making half double crochets in every stitch until the end of the row.
4. At the end of the row chain two.
Row 2
5. Turn your work around. Chain two does not count as a stitch. You will start working in the first stitch.
6. You will have to work only in the third loop that is behind the “v”.
7. So, yarn over.
8. Insert your hook in the first stitch grabbing just the third loop.
9. Yarn over.
10. Pull the yarn through. Now you have three loops on your hook.
11. Yarn over.
12. Pull the yarn through all three loops. You have just made a half double crochet third loop only!
13. To make the next stitch, work in the third loop only of the second stitch.
14. So, make another half double crochet third loop only in the next stitch.
15. Continue working in the same way until the end of the row. The last stitch should be made in the third loop of the last half double crochet of the previous row.
16. To get the same stitch pattern as in the example, you will make one row of half double crochets. So, at the end of the row chain two.
Row 3
17. Turn your work around. Chain two does not count as a stitch.
18. Make a half double crochet in the first stitch.
19. Continue making half double crochets in every stitch until the end of the row. For the rest of the pattern repeat rows 2 and 3.
Finished half double crochet third loop only
20. Done!
