How to crochet popcorn stitch: join a complete group

Close the group

1. Make 5 complete double crochets into the same base stitch. Count the 5 top Vs before closing.
2. Lengthen the active loop slightly and remove the hook. Insert the hook from front to back through both top loops of the first double crochet in the group.
3. Catch the dropped loop and draw it through the first stitch’s top. Gently snug it on the hook shaft. Do not pull the working yarn through as if making another double crochet.
4. For this version, make no additional closing chain. Continue into the next base stitch.

Practice front and back placement

On a base of 6 single crochets, work [popcorn in the next stitch, single crochet in the next stitch] 3 times. Count 3 popcorn tops and 3 single crochets.

The return row uses one single crochet in each closed popcorn top and each background stitch. Insert through the closed top, not through every double crochet in the group.

If the popcorn opens or twists

Check that the closing loop went through the first double crochet and that all 5 stitches share one base. A loose dropped loop can be gently shortened before the next stitch.

The insertion direction determines which way the group sits. A pattern may ask for a back-facing closure or a closing chain. Keep that instruction with its count rather than mixing versions.