US bpdc · UK bptr · easy
Back Post Double Crochet: step-by-step tutorial
Back post double crochet is worked around the post of a stitch from the back, pushing the new stitch behind the fabric. Yarn over, insert the hook from back to front to back around the post, then complete a regular double crochet. Paired with front post stitches, it forms ribbing.
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How to back post double crochet, step by step
- Yo once.
- Insert the hook from the back, in front of the post of the next stitch, and out to the back.
- Yo and pull up a loop around the post — 3 loops on hook.
- Yo and pull through 2 loops — 2 loops on hook.
- Yo and pull through the last 2 loops — 1 bpdc made.
What is the difference between front post and back post double crochet?
The difference between front post and back post double crochet is the direction the hook travels around the post. Front post raises the stitch toward the viewer; back post pushes it away.
On a wrong-side row, a bpdc looks like a fpdc from the right side, which is how rib columns stay continuous when turning.
| Stitch | Hook enters | Stitch sits |
|---|---|---|
| fpdc | Front to back to front | Raised toward you |
| bpdc | Back to front to back | Pushed away from you |
How do you keep ribbing aligned when turning?
Ribbing stays aligned when each stitch matches the look of the stitch below from the right side. Work bpdc into stitches that face you as raised and fpdc into recessed ones on wrong-side rows.
Placing a marker in the first rib column makes it easier to check alignment every few rows.
Where is back post double crochet used?
Back post double crochet is used in rib cuffs, hat brims, basketweave blankets and cabled textures.
It is also used alone on every right-side row to create a ridged fabric with horizontal lines on the back.
Patterns that use back post double crochet
Frequently asked questions
What is bpdc in UK terms?
Back post treble, abbreviated bptr.
Is back post harder than front post?
Slightly, because the hook is angled from behind, but the motion becomes natural after a few rows.
What is bphdc?
Back post half double crochet, a shorter post stitch.