How to Crochet a Slip Stitch | Step-by-Step Guide

Slip Stitch Back Loop Only | Crochet Made Easy by Yarn Over Hook

How to Crochet the Slip Stitch (Back Loop Only)

A simple, textured stitch that adds beautiful detail to ribbing, cuffs, hats, scarves, and more. This beginner-friendly guide walks you through the slip stitch step-by-step so you can start using it confidently in your projects.

What Is a Slip Stitch in Crochet?

A slip stitch (sl st) is one of the simplest and shortest stitches in crochet. Unlike taller stitches like single crochet or double crochet, a slip stitch creates very little height, which makes it perfect for joining pieces, finishing edges, and creating tight, clean transitions in your work.

When worked in the back loop only (BLO), the slip stitch transforms into a beautiful, flexible ribbed texture that’s ideal for:

Hat brims
Cuffs
Socks
Cowls
Blankets
Any project that needs stretch or subtle texture

Slip stitches are also frequently used to:

Join rounds in the round
Move your yarn to a new position without adding height
Tighten or secure the edges of a project
Add decorative lines or ridges

Even though it’s a tiny stitch, it’s incredibly versatile—and once you learn it, you’ll use it constantly.

Watch the Step-by-Step Slip Stitch Tutorial

Want to see each step in slow, clear detail? In this video, Sammi from Yarn Over Hook talks you through every part of the slip stitch.

Step-by-Step Slip Stitch (BLO) Instructions

In this tutorial, Sammi from Yarn Over Hook walks you through how to complete the slip stitch. These instructions are written in US crochet terms.

1. Insert your hook into the back loop only

Locate the back loop — the loop farthest from you — and place your hook behind the front loop to enter between the stitches.

2. Yarn over

Wrap the working yarn over your hook from back to front.

3. Pull through the back loop

Draw the yarn through the back loop only.
You’ll now have one loop on your hook.

4. Pull through the loop on your hook

This completes one slip stitch.

5. Repeat across your row

For ribbing texture, always work BLO (back loop only).
For finishing or edging, you can insert into the full stitch.

Slip Stitch Crochet Tips

BLO slip stitch creates beautiful ribbing texture
It’s perfect for cuffs, cowls, blankets, and hat bands
Working in the full stitch removes the twisted look
This stitch is dense — expect slower progress, but worth it

Watch on YouTube → Full-Video & Short

Ready to keep learning?

Explore your next stitch.

Learn How to Read Crochet Patterns & Charts (US + UK). Then, check out these foundational stitches:

Keep building your crochet confidence with more free resources from Yarn Over Hook:

Find Your Next Crochet Project

Explore patterns, guides, and maker-created resources from the Yarn Over Hook marketplace.

A Gourd Time for Pumpkin Carving – DIGITAL PATTERN

$3.00 Tax calculated at checkout

Picking a Yarn Fiber Crochet Cheat Sheet | Free PDF Guide

$0.00

Elote Cat – Corn Cat Crochet Pattern

$3.00 Tax calculated at checkout

Crochet is Community

Join the global crochet community you didn’t know you needed.

Whether you are picking up your first hook or sharing your latest masterpiece, Yarn Over Hook brings makers together through learning, community, and creativity.

It is a welcoming space where crocheters around the world come to create, learn, and connect.

Here, you will find tutorials, stories, events, encouragement, and real connection with fellow makers who understand the joy of crochet.

Join free and be part of a global community where you can feel inspired, supported, and never stitch alone.

Crochet, community, and connection — all in one place! Free to join. Made for crocheters of every level.

Our Promise

We put community first in every decision.
We create original, authentic content made by crocheters, for crocheters.
We aim to inspire and educate through every touchpoint.

Are You a Crochet Designer or Maker?

Share your work with a global audience in our curated, AI-free marketplace. Apply to sell your crochet patterns and maker resources and grow your creative business.