Popcorn Stitch

The popcorn is one of those stitches that come in handy when you need to create a chunky fabric for heavy winter accessories like infinity scarves, cowls, hats and ear warmers.

The bobble-like appearance also makes it ideal for chunky Afghans and purse as well as kitchen items like potholders, dishcloths, and tea cozies. It is also ideal for amigurumi animals due to its bumpy texture.

How to crochet a popcorn stitch

The following step-by-step instructions are for working the popcorn stitch. It shows how to make a simple swatch using the pattern; you can increase or decrease the number of chains and popcorn to suit your project once you master the basic procedure.

Step 1

Start with chaining 13 followed by 1 double crochet (dc) in the fourth chain from the hook.

Step 2

Now, work a dc in each of the rest of the chains.

Step 3

Once you complete working the dc, chain 3 and turn.

Step 4

Now skip the first dc from the last row and work one dc in each of the next 5 stitches.

Step 5

Make 5 dc in the next stitch (it will look like a shell stitch).

Step 6

Once done, pull the last loop a little to get a bit of extra slack before you take your hook out of it.

Step 7

Now insert the hook through the first dc you made in your shell (you can see it in the above picture), before pulling up the live loop through. The five-dc set will look like a bulge or a ‘popcorn’ once you pull the loop tightly.

Step 8

Now chain one to lock the popcorn in place.

Step 9

Next, dc in each chain to the end.

You have now made one popcorn stitch. When implementing it in a design, you will be repeating from step 5 to step 9 to make the desired number of popcorns. You can also work the stitch in the round to make hats, mittens, and socks.

Check the following video to understand the steps better.

Popcorn stitch pattern ideas

Although it would probably look a bit messy if you made a blanket completely worked with the popcorn stitch, the distinct bouncy texture makes it a good edging option. You can also use the popcorn to make granny squares with different designs like diamonds and hearts.

Knitting the popcorn stitch

The pattern can also be worked with knitting needles where you knit 1, purl 1 knit 1 and purl 1 into the same stitch. Then in the next row, you need to slip the first three stitches of the 4-stitch set, knit the last one before passing the first three stitches over the last knit stitch.

Given below is a video with the step-by-step directions.