Working in the Third Loop

Last updated on January 27, 2026

Please note: I am using US crochet terms.

Do you know the third loop of a crochet stitch?

I discovered it a few years ago and found it incredibly helpful. It allows you to create beautiful effects.

Typically, the front and back loops of your crochet stitch lie on top of your crochet row forming a small “v”. By working into the third loop you bring these two loops to the front of your work creating a rib that resembles a knit stitch.

In addition, the third loop can be very helpful when instructions specify working in the back loops only. If you pick up not only the back loop but also the third loop, the stitch is stabilised and prevents the back loop from stretching too much.

What’s the third loop?

I have often read lately that only a half double crochet has a third loop. In my opinion, this is not true,. But to be honest, I don’t know if I am right.

The half double crochet is certainly the stitch that makes it easiest to work into the third loop. Therefore, this is probably the best stitch to use to explain it.

The third loop of a half double crochet is created by the first yarn over you make when working the stitch. This yarn over can be seen as a small horizontal bump on the back of the stitch. This is called „third loop“.

A third loop in a single crochet or a double crochet?

You will also find a small little bump on the back side of other stitches, such as double crochet or single crochet. However, it is created in a different way with these stitches.

This might also be the point where the definition of a third loop diverges.

Be that as it may, when I talk about the third loop here, I am only referring to this small additional loop or bump at the back of a stitch, regardless of how it is formed.

However these bumps come about, they serve the same purpose: they can be used to create beautiful effects when crocheting.


How to work in the third loop of a stitch?

Working in the third loop is comparable to working in the back loop. It is best if you tilt the work slightly towards you.

Then insert your hook

  • from fop to bottom and
  • from front to back

under the third loop, grab your yarn, pull through and work the stitch as normal. That‘s it!

To practise working in the third loop I would recommend to use half double crochets. It really is easiest with this stitch.