Ready to master the bobble stitch increase? In this post, you’ll learn exactly what a bobble stitch is, why and when to increase it, and how to work both a standard bobble and a bobble stitch increase step by step. You’ll also discover pro tips to avoid common pitfalls, creative project ideas ranging from textured shawls to baby blankets.

Introduction

Adding bobbles to your crochet work instantly transforms a flat fabric into a richly textured masterpiece. Learning how to increase the bobble stitch not only allows you to add more dimension, but also helps you shape garments and accessories—think triangular shawls, scalloped edges, or 3D elements on amigurumi. Whether you’re a beginner looking to spice up your stitch repertoire or an experienced crocheter aiming to refine your technique, this guide has you covered.

Understanding the Bobble Stitch

What Is a Bobble Stitch?

The bobble stitch is a textured crochet stitch that creates a raised bump—or “bobble”—by working multiple incomplete double crochet stitches into the same stitch and then finishing them together. It’s sometimes abbreviated as dc5tog in US terms, meaning “double crochet five together,” where five incomplete DCs are drawn up into loops before being closed in one go.

Why Use Bobble Stitch Increases?

Bobble stitch increases let you add extra bumps in the same stitch, which is essential for shaping and designing. By placing two or more bobbles in a single stitch, you can form neat scallops, accentuate corners in triangular shawls, or create ridges and textures in blankets and scarves . This technique is invaluable when you want both volume and structure without sewing on separate pieces.

How to Crochet a Bobble Stitch Increase (US Terms)

Basic Bobble Stitch Step-by-Step

1. Yarn over (YO), insert your hook into the designated stitch, YO, and draw up a loop.

2. YO and pull through two loops on the hook. You now have two loops left (one incomplete DC).

3. Repeat step 1 and 2 four more times so you have six loops on your hook (five incomplete DCs) .

4. YO and pull through all six loops to close the bobble. Voilà—one bobble stitch complete.

Alternative: Some patterns use a 3-DC bobble (three draws-up) for a smaller bump: work three incomplete DCs, giving you four loops, then YO through all four loops .

Working the Bobble Stitch Increase

To increase a bobble stitch, simply work two bobbles into the same base stitch or space. This packs extra texture and adds width at that point. For a subtler increase, you can also work one bobble and one single crochet into the same stitch—this variation blends the bobble into the fabric more gently .

Placing Increases in Rounds and Rows

• In the round: Follow your pattern’s increase chart. For example, if you need two increases in a 12-bobble round, place two extra bobbles evenly spaced, working two bobbles in the same stitch each time.

• In rows: Mark increase points with stitch markers. Work two bobbles into each marked stitch to keep your row counts accurate and your edges neat.

Tips and Common Mistakes

• Mind your tension: Bobble stitches can tighten up the fabric. Loosen your grip slightly when working incomplete DCs to ensure your bobbles aren’t too tight.

• Chain 1 after bobbles: Some patterns call for chaining one after closing a bobble to secure the top; others skip it. Check your specific pattern before adding extra chains.

• Space bobbles evenly: Crowding bobbles can make your fabric stiff. Use stitch counts or markers to maintain even spacing.

• Experiment with variations: Try the puff stitch (loops pulled through 3× YO instead of DC) for fluffy bobbles , or use the popcorn stitch (5 DCs closed together with a chain-1 between) for a rounder bump.

Project Inspirations

• Bobble Edge Crochet Shawl: A triangular shawl with two bobbles in stitch increases at each side edge creates a classic triangle shape.

• Caron Bobble Fringe Shawl: Colorful stripes with bobble increases at the edges yield a cozy fringe-friendly border.

• Textured Baby Blanket: Spell out letters or create motifs using bobble stitch increases for an heirloom-quality blanket.

• Bobble Crochet Dishcloths: Use bobbles to form fun words or images—perfect for kitchen décor and gift ideas.

• Bobble Stitch Flower Keychain: Craft a petite flower with center bobbles and add a loop for a cute keychain.

Conclusion

Mastering the bobble stitch increase unlocks endless possibilities for texture and shaping in your crochet projects. With clear step-by-step instructions, useful tips, and plenty of project inspiration, you’re now ready to add dimensional bobbles and smooth increases to everything from shawls to blankets. Happy crocheting!