In This Post
Want dramatic, touchable 3D texture on baby blankets, throw pillows, or granny squares? Meet the crochet popcorn stitch! Unlike bobbles or puff stitches, a true popcorn works 5 complete double crochets into the same stitch, drops the loop, and cinches the first and fifth tops together so a rounded kernel pops right out toward you.
Why You’ll Love This Crochet Tutorial
- Crispest Pop in Crochet: Stays round and raised even after machine washing.
- Works on Right or Wrong Side: Easy slight variation lets you pop stitches cleanly on alternating rows.
- Perfect Accent Row: Pair single rows of popcorns with smooth moss stitch or half-double crochet!
Materials & Yarn Tips
For crisp stitch definition that is easy on your hands, pair Category 4 Medium Worsted Yarn with an ergonomic 5.0 mm (US H-8) hook. If you are substituting from your stash, check our Crochet Yarn Weight Chart and Hook Size Conversion Guide so your finished gauge stays right on target.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Work 5 Double Crochets in One Stitch
Work 5 complete double crochet stitches all into the exact same stitch. Pull the active loop on your hook slightly tall (about 1 inch) and slip your hook out.
Step 2: Insert Hook Front-to-Back & Grab Dropped Loop
For right-side rows, insert your hook from front to back under both top loops of the 1st dc of the 5-dc group. Hook your dropped working loop and pull it firmly through the 1st stitch.
Step 3: Chain 1 to Lock the Popcorn
Tighten gently so the 5-dc bundle folds forward into a plump berry, then ch 1 to lock the top closed before working into the next stitch!
Always check whether your pattern counts that closing ch-1 as a separate stitch space or solely as part of closing the popcorn!
Save Free Patterns to Your Inbox!
Want weekly free crochet patterns, granny square palettes, and printable stitch cheat sheets from Olivia?
Finishing & Blocking Advice
Once your final stitch is fastened off, thread your yarn tail onto a blunt tapestry needle and weave it securely back and forth in three directions through the back of matching stitches. Pinning your finished piece to measurements on a foam mat with a light mist of water (or gentle hover-steam for acrylic) relaxes every loop so corners sit crisp and professional!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between popcorn stitch and bobble stitch?
A bobble works 5 partial dc stitches closed together on the hook, while a popcorn works 5 finished dc stitches and cinches the 1st and 5th tops together for sharper definition.
How to Crochet the Popcorn Stitch (3D Honey Bobble Texture)
Learn how to crochet crisp, rounded popcorn stitches that pop boldly on the front of blankets, pillows, and holiday stockings.
Materials
Tools
- 5.0 mm (US H-8) crochet hook
- Scissors & tapestry needle
Abbreviations (US Terms)
Instructions
- Row 1 (WS): Ch 20. Sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across. Ch 1, turn. (19 sc)
- Row 2 (RS – Popcorn Row): Sc in first 2 sts, *work PC in next st, sc in next 3 sts; repeat from * to last st, sc in last st. Ch 1, turn.
- Rows 3–4: Work 1 sc in each st across for 2 smooth background rows. Offset popcorns on Row 6 by starting with sc in first 4 sts!
Want Free Crochet Patterns?
Enter your email below to receive new beginner-friendly crochet patterns, stitch guides & printable cheat sheets each week!
We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe anytime with one click.Notes
- Popcorn stitches eat roughly 25% more yarn than plain double crochet — buy one extra skein for blankets.
Finally understand the difference between bobbles and popcorns! These pop out SO much cleaner on my throw pillow.
Yes!! Once you see how crisp a real popcorn sits, you'll want to add popcorn borders everywhere!