How to Crochet the Popcorn Stitch

September 19, 2020

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In this step-by-step tutorial, I’ll show you how to crochet the popcorn stitch, with a written pattern and video tutorial in both right- and left-handed versions. Whether you’re new to textured crochet or looking to add another stitch to your repertoire, this tutorial will guide you through everything you need to know.

The crochet popcorn stitch is a fun, textured stitch that adds a raised, three-dimensional effect to your crochet projects. It’s a great stitch to learn if you want to add extra texture and interest to blankets, cushions, scarves, hats and more.

The popcorn sttich is often confused with the puff stitch and the bobble stitch, so I’ve written a helpful post explaining the difference between the three stitches. CLICK HERE to find out more.

Materials & Tools

Yarn: Caron Simply Soft; however, you can use any weight yarn for this stitch and the hook size recommended on the yarn band.
Hook: 5mm hook or size needed to obtain gauge
Scissors
Darning Needle

Where to Shop Yarn

Terms & Abbreviations

Chain (ch): Yarn over, pull through one loop on hook

Slip Stitch(s): ss(s): Insert hook, yarn over, pull through stitch and loop on hook.

Double Crochet(s): dc(s): Insert hook into stitch, yarn over, pull up a loop, you will have two loops on the hook. Yarn over, pull through remaining two loops.

Treble Crochet(s): tr(s): Yarn over, insert into stitch, yarn over, pull up a loop, you will have three loops on the hook. Yarn over, pull through two loops, yarn over, pull through the remaining two loops.

Special Stitches

Popcorn Stitch: (Pst): Work 5 tr into st, loosen the loop on your hook, then carefully remove hook. Insert hook into top of first tr from back to front, insert hook back into the working loop (the one from which you removed your hook), pull the loop through the tr st.

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Convert Pattern Terms

Here you can quickly switch between UK and US crochet terms. This will make following the pattern easier as all terms will be converted to your preferred version.

view in UK terms

view in US terms

Pattern Notes

Written in UK terms but switchable to US terms below.

This pattern gives you the basic principles for the popcorn stitch, designed to help you create your own projects.

The video tutorial can be found at the base of the post.

FREE Crochet Pattern: Popcorn Stitch

You are viewing this pattern in UK terms.

Chain in multiples of 2 + 2

Row 1 (WS): dc in second ch from hook (skipped ch does not count as st), *PSt in next ch, dc in next ch; rep from * across. Turn.

Row 2 (RS): 1 ch (does not count as st here or throughout), dc in each st across. Turn.

Row 3: 1 ch, dc in first st, *PSt in next st, dc in next st; rep from * across. Turn.

Repeat Rows 2 and 3 until desired height.

Fasten off and sew in ends

An in-progress swatch of popcorn stitch sits on a white background. The swatch is made from lilac yarn and uses a metallic blue crochet hook.

Video Tutorials

Right-handed

Or you can watch on YouTube

Left-handed

Or you can watch on YouTube

Stitches To Try Next

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FAQs

Is this stitch suitable for beginners?

I always say if you like the look of a stitch, try it. If you’re comfortable with basic stitches like chain, double crochet, or treble crochet, you’ll likely pick it up quickly. I also recommend watching the video tutorial alongside following the written pattern. Lastly, take your time, practice slowly, and don’t worry if it feels tricky at first.

How do I keep count of my stitches?

Using stitch markers can make a huge difference, especially at the beginning and end of rows or rounds. Counting regularly after each row will also help you spot mistakes early before they become harder to fix. If you’re still struggling, add stitch markers after every 5 or 10 stitches.

My edges are uneven! What am I doing wrong?

Uneven edges usually happen when stitches are accidentally added or missed at the ends of rows. Pay close attention to where the first and last stitches go, and count your stitches often to make sure the total stays consistent. Using stitch markers can help with this. CLICK HERE for more help starting and ending rows with confidence.

What should I do if I make a mistake?

Mistakes happen to every crocheter! If you notice an error a few stitches back, gently pull out the stitches to the problem area and try again. In the crochet world, we call this frogging, and it’s all part of the learning process.

Why do my stitches vary in size?

This will be your tension. If you struggle with your tension and find your crochet stitches are inconsistent, or they get tighter or looser, I can help fix this with the golden loop! CLICK HERE to help fix your tension issues.

How long does it take to learn a new crochet stitch?

Some stitches click immediately, while others take a little more practice. Give yourself time to repeat the stitch pattern slowly, and don’t be afraid to pause and replay tutorials. Practice makes progress.

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