The Difference Between These Three Crochet Stitches: Puff, Bobble & Popcorn Stitch

This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through links on our site, I may earn a small commission. Click to see full details of my Privacy Policy.

If you love adding texture to your crochet projects, you’ve probably come across the puff stitch, bobble stitch and popcorn stitch. At first glance, these three textured crochet stitches can look very similar, but they are created using different techniques and each produces a distinct effect.

Understanding the difference between puff, bobble and popcorn stitches can make following crochet patterns much easier, particularly when a pattern uses one of these stitches as a key design feature. While all three stitches create a raised, textured effect, the way you work them and the final appearance of the fabric can vary considerably.

In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at puff stitch vs bobble stitch vs popcorn stitch, explaining how each stitch is made, what makes them different and how to recognise them in your crochet projects. We’ll also look at the texture and structure each stitch creates, helping you choose the right stitch for your next project.

This guide will help you confidently identify and use these popular crochet stitches.

Convert Pattern Terms

Pattern Notes

You are viewing this pattern in UK terms.

For each of these techniques I have started with an EVEN number of chains and done a row of Double Crochet starting in the 2nd chain from the hook. I have then chained one, turned the work and done another Double crochet in the base of the chain one. This will help to build a straight edge on the side of your work.

Each of these stitches will be performed from the wrong side of the work. This means that your stitches will be pushed away from you. (please follow this rule unless a pattern advises you differently)

---

Puff stitch

For this stitch you will yarn over and insert the hook into the next stitch. Yarn over and pull through. this process will be repeated 5 times and you will end up with 11 loops on your hook which will be bunched together. Yarn over and pull through all of the loops on the hook.

Double crochet into the next stitch. Repeat your puff stitch and double crochet to the end of the row. You will end on a double crochet.

You must then chain 1 and turn. Double crochet into the base of the chain one and into every stitch of the row. Chain 1 and turn. You will now repeat the puff stitch row.

Bobble stitch

For this stitch you will yarn over and insert the hook into the next stitch. Yarn over and pull through, yarn over and pull through two stitches. this process will be repeated 5 times and you will end up with 6 loops on your hook. Yarn over and pull through all of the loops on the hook.

Double crochet into the next stitch. Repeat your bobble stitch and double crochet to the end of the row. You will end on a double crochet.

You must then chain 1 and turn. Double crochet into the base of the chain one and into every stitch of the row. Chain 1 and turn. You will now repeat the bobble stitch row.

Popcorn Stitch

For this stitch you will do 5 Treble crochets into the next space. You will pull up on the loop on your hook and carefully remove your hook. Insert your hook into the top of the 1st Treble crochet stitch and back into the last loop (that you have just taken your hook out of) Pull the loop through the treble crochet.

Double crochet into the next stitch. Repeat your popcorn stitch and double crochet to the end of the row. You will end on a double crochet.

You must then chain 1 and turn. Double crochet into the base of the chain one and into every stitch of the row. Chain 1 and turn. You will now repeat the popcorn stitch row.

Now that you have seen them all together, does it make more sense to you? Have you used any of these in a project yet? I included the bobble stitch in my Bobble Stripe Blanket pattern as I just love the texture!

Video Tutorials

Right-handed

Or you can watch on YouTube

Left-handed

Or you can watch on YouTube

Crochet Stitches To Try Next

• Zigzag Puff Stitch
• Harvest Stitch
• Cobble Stitch
• Bar Stitch

Join our Crochet Community

I always love to see your makes so if you try any of my patterns or follow my stitch tutorials please tag me @bellacococrochet or use the #bellacococrochet

sarah-jayne

Pattern FAQ’s

Do these stitches use a lot of yarn?

Textured stitches do take up more yarn than other stitches. I have weighed each of the swatches that I have done in order to give you an idea of how much yarn they used.

Each swatch measures 11cm x 6cm approx using Caron Simply Soft Yarn.

• Puff Stitch = 7g
• Bobble Stitch = 8g
• Popcorn Stitch = 11g

Which crochet stitch is more textured: puff, bobble or popcorn?

All three stitches add texture, but they can create slightly different effects. Puff stitches tend to create a softer, rounded texture, while bobble stitches can produce a more pronounced, three-dimensional bump. Popcorn stitches are often more defined and rounded, creating a distinctive raised shape on the surface of your crochet fabric.

Why do crochet patterns use different instructions for the same stitch?

Crochet terminology and stitch construction can vary between designers, countries and patterns. For example, one designer’s bobble stitch may be worked slightly differently from another designer’s bobble. This is why you should always follow the specific stitch instructions or abbreviations provided with a pattern rather than relying solely on the stitch name.