The Difference Between Front and Back Popcorn Stitches

Do you know the difference between a front popcorn stitch and a back popcorn stitch? It’s somewhat similar to front and back post stitches with the goal of popping the stitch to either the front of the fabric or the back. Many projects that work popcorn might only work the stitch on right-side (RS) rows, so the back popcorn stitch is far less common. However, if you’re working a project with lots of texture, you might need to know how to do the back popcorn. Read on to discover the small difference with a large visual impact!

Front Popcorn Stitch

The front popcorn stitch is far more common than the back. In fact, you’ve probably worked it before! In case you are in need of a refresher, here is an example of a type of front popcorn stitch:
4 double crochet in indicated stitch or space, drop loop from hook, insert hook from front to back through first stitch, place dropped loop on hook and draw through first stitch.

Back Popcorn Stitch

The back popcorn stitch is used when you are working a wrong-side (WS) row but still want the popcorn to pop on the right side (RS) of the project. In this case, the stitch would need to pop to the back of the work as you are stitching. To accomplish this task, work the back popcorn stitch as follows:
4 double crochet in indicated stitch or space, drop loop from hook, insert hook from back to front through first stitch, place dropped loop on hook and draw through first stitch.

Why work front and back popcorn stitches?

The visual impact is difficult to top. If you’re hoping to try out a project with incredible texture and an innovative use of both front and back popcorn stitches, you can’t go wrong with the Cardinal Wrap from Interweave Crochet Winter 2019. This lovely wrap combines lace and texture into one stunning shawl that you’ll want to wrap up in all winter long. Not only is the project beautiful, you’ll get the chance to practice both your front and back popcorn stitches!

Do you have other favorite projects to practice these stitches? Let us know in the comments below! Grab some sportweight yarn and a size 7 (4.5 mm) hook (affiliate links) to get started, and post pictures of your Cardinal Wrap on Ravelry!

Happy stitching!
Sara

(Featured Image: The Cardinal Wrap from Interweave Crochet Winter 2019 | Credit: Harper Point Photography)

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