How to Crochet the Popcorn Stitch

Popcorn stitch crochet provides one of the most unique appearances. Use the popcorn stitch for all sorts of projects.

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For a fun and unexpected crochet stitch pattern, try popcorn, which looks just like you'd expect!

This page, How to Crochet the Popcorn Stitch, will show you exactly how to create the popular popcorn crochet stitch with a step-by-step written and photo tutorial.

The abbreviation for this stitch is pc and is often found as "crochet pc" when you see it. It's a unique stitch in that it allows for lots of texture. It's also a big yarn-eater, so keep that in mind when starting a popcorn stitch crochet project.

This step-by-step photo and written tutorial below will detail exactly how to crochet the popcorn stitch, so it's great for any skill level.

For an unbelievable appearance that will remind you of popped popcorn kernels, try this crochet technique for all sorts of projects, from wearables to home decor.

After you learn how to popcorn stitch, you will want to check out the fabulous popcorn patterns featured below for some unique ideas on what to make with your new stitch knowledge!

That's right. From popcorn stitch crochet scarves to gorgeous afghans, there's a long list of popcorn patterns you'll want to try right away. You will see how easily you can create the most stunning works of art from yarn by using this creative stitch.

Flowers pop off from granny squares and blankets have 3D aspects that no one will expect when you use this unique technique.

This tutorial was written by Rhondda Mol from Oombawka Design Crochet. Visit her site for lots of tips for beginners, crochet tutorials, free patterns, round-ups, and more!

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Learn the Popcorn Crochet Stitch

This popcorn stitch tutorial is easy to follow, making it doable for crocheters of any skill level. You can use the hook size and yarn type and colors of your choice or what is provided with your pattern.

This tutorial uses an H hook and two colors of DK weight yarn but you can choose to use more or fewer colors.

Notes and Pattern Information

Notes:

Images follow the written instructions.
Initial ch 3 counts as 1 dc. You may replace the sl st to join and ch 3 with a standing dc.
For rows beginning with a (sl st to join, ch 1, 1 sc), you may replace this with a standing sc.
After Row 2 the project is worked with the RS facing. This means you will need to finish off at the end of each row and rejoin with your next color at the beg of the row again.
The ch2sp is not worked into for this project. Sk all ch2sp in the project until the finishing section.
Color 1: blue, Color 2: orange.

Stitch Multiple:
Chain a Multiple of 8 + 2

Abbreviations:
beg - begin
ch - chain
ch2sp - chain 2 space
dc – double crochet
pc – popcorn
R – row
RS – right side
rep - rep
sc - single crochet
sk – skip
sl st – slip stitch
st / sts - stitch / stitches
WS – wrong side
* – Repeat the instructions between the asterisks the number of times indicated. This repeat will contain multiple instructions.
[] – at the end of the row – the total number of stitches

Special Stitches:
Popcorn (pc)
Work 5 dc in the specified stitch, remove last loop from the hook, insert hook under the front and back loop of the first dc of the 5-dc set and pull the last loop through to complete the popcorn stitch.

Materials Needed:
Yarn of choice
Crochet hook of choice

Crochet Popcorn Stitch Instructions:

Color 1 (blue): Chain a multiple of 8 + 2 stitches. For this example, I chained 26 stitches. Using DK Weight Yarn [3] and a 4 mm (H) hook this creates a project 6.5 inches wide.

Row 1: WS: Continue with Color 1 (blue): Sk the first ch, work 1 sc in each rem ch across. Turn.

Row 2: RS: Color 1 (blue): Ch 1, work 1 sc in each of the first 2 sc, ch 2, s 1 sc, work 1 pc in the next sc. *Ch 2, sk 1 sc, work 1 sc in the next sc, ch 2, sk 1 sc, work 1 pc in the next sc**. Rep from * to ** across to the last sc. Work 1 dc in the last sc. Finish off.

Row 3: RS: Color 2 (orange): With RS facing join new yarn in the first sc with a sl st and ch 3. (Note: you may join with a standing dc instead if you prefer.)
1 pc in the next sc, ch 2, *work 1 sc in the next pc, ch 2, work 1 pc in the next sc, ch 2**. Rep from * to ** across to the last pc. Work 1 sc in the last pc and 1 sc in the last dc. Finish off.

Row 4: RS: Color 1 (blue): With RS facing join new yarn in the top of the ch 3 with a s st. Ch 1 and work 1 sc in the top of the same ch. (Note: you may join with a standing sc instead if you prefer.)
1 sc in the next pc, ch 2, 1 pc in the next sc. *Ch 2, 1 sc in the next pc, ch 2, 1 pc in the next sc**. Rep from * to ** across to the last sc. Work 1 dc in the last sc. Finish off.

Rep Row 3 and Row 4 until your project reaches the desired length.

This is what the reverse of your project looks like:

Finishing

After your final repeat of Row 4, do not fasten off, instead, ch 1 and turn your work to crochet the finishing row.

Work 1 sc in each st and 1 sc in each ch2sp across.

If you will be edging your project you can rotate your work and continue to work sc stitches evenly around the edges of your project; otherwise, finish off and weave in ends.

This is what your finished swatch looks like: