Crochet Ribbing Tutorial

Crochet ribbing is a simple way to add stretch and texture to your projects.

Whether you’re making sweaters, hat brims, cuffs, or even a cozy blanket, learning different crochet ribbing techniques will help you create fabric that looks and feels just like knit rib.

This tutorial includes three video tutorials (right-handed, US terms) showing you how to work different types of crochet ribbing.

You’ll learn how to use single crochet stitches (sc), half double crochet stitches (hdc), and slip stitches to create a ribbed texture.

Before You Get Started

Here are a few tips to know before you begin practicing crochet ribbing:

Use a smooth yarn in a light color so you can clearly see each row of stitches.
A medium-size crochet hook (like 5mm/H-8) works well for practice.
Crochet ribbing is usually worked into the back loops only (BLO), but some techniques use the third loop or front loops.
Keep your tension even so your ribbed fabric doesn’t pull too tight.

Tools/Materials Needed

Tapestry needle for weaving in ends
Yarn (medium-weight cotton or acrylic works best)
Crochet hook (5mm/H-8 recommended for beginners)
Scissors

Crochet Ribbing Tutorials

Below you’ll find three tutorials with video tutorials on YouTube.

Each one uses a slightly different ribbing technique.

Try them all and see which one gives you the ribbed texture you love most.

Abbreviations

Written in US terms.

BLO – Back loop only
CH – Chain
HDC – Half double crochet
SC – Single crochet
SL ST / sl st – Slip stitch
St(s) – Stitch(es)
Rep – Repeat
Cont – Continue
Rem – Remaining

How To Half Double Crochet in the Third Loop (HDC 3rd Loop Ribbing)

This technique creates stretchy crochet ribbing by working into the third loop of the half double crochet stitches instead of the top loops.

Instructions:

Start with a foundation chain (any number of stitches).
Work a row of half double crochet (hdc).
On the next row, insert your hook into the third loop (just below the top of the stitch).
Continue working across the row, always using the third loop.
Repeat row until your ribbing is the desired length.

Tip: The third loop technique makes great ribbing for hats, cuffs, and sweaters.

How To Crochet a Pumpkin with Half Double Crochet Ribbing (HDC BLO Ribbing)

This method uses half double crochet stitches worked in the back loops only (BLO) to create ribbed fabric.

It’s the classic way to make ribbing for hat brims, cuffs, and garments.

Instructions:

Make a foundation chain (any number of stitches).
Work your first row of hdc.
From the second row onward, work all stitches in the back loop only (BLO).
Repeat row until the ribbing measures the right length.

Crochet Rib Stitches – Single Crochet and Half Double Crochet Ribbing

This tutorial shows how to make both single crochet ribbing (sc ribbing) and half double crochet ribbing (hdc ribbing) by working into the back loops of each stitch.

Instructions:

Single crochet/Half double crochet Ribbing (sc ribbing):
1. Make a foundation chain.
2. Work the first row in single crochet (sc).
3. Work the second row in hdc.
4. From the third row, work 1 sc in the back loop (BLO) of each hdc stitch.
5. Rep rows 2 and 3 until finished.

Tip: These stitch patterns create stretchy ribbing that’s perfect for hat brims, cuffs, sweaters, and blankets.

Make Farmhouse Pumpkins

With these three crochet ribbing techniques, you’ll be ready to add beautiful ribbed texture to any crochet project — from cozy hat brims to stylish sweaters.

Try out each ribbing technique and then put your new skills to the test by making farmhouse-style crochet pumpkins.

You can grab the free printable pattern here: Rustic Farmhouse Crochet Pumpkin Pattern (Free Printable)

Happy crocheting!

FAQs & Extra Tips

→ What is crochet ribbing used for?

Crochet ribbing adds stretch and a knit-like texture to garments, blankets, cuffs, and more.

→ What’s the difference between single crochet ribbing and half double crochet ribbing?

Single crochet ribbing is denser and firmer, while half double crochet ribbing is softer and more flexible.

→ What’s the easiest ribbing technique for beginners?

Start with half double crochet ribbing in the back loop only (hdc BLO ribbing) — it’s simple and versatile.

→ Can ribbing be added after finishing a project?

Yes! You can attach ribbing to a hat brim, sleeves, or even the edge of a blanket after completing the main rows of stitches.

I’d love to see your finished farmhouse crochet pumpkins!

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Crochet Ribbing Tutorial