Learn the Leaf Hopper Crochet Stitch in no time!
The Leaf Hopper Stitch is a fresh texture pattern that gives your projects a charming look with a subtle cluster effect. It might sound like a strange name, but this stitch creates a fun, leafy pattern that works great for blankets, sweaters, and all kinds of cozy items. It combines simple double crochets with puff stitch-like clusters, making a unique fabric that’s comfy and eye-catching. This tutorial breaks down the stitch step-by-step, making it easy to follow along, whether you’re a beginner or just trying something new.
Here’s the video tutorial to watch along as you crochet:
Materials and Preparation to learn the leaf hopper crochet stitch
Yarn & Hook
For this tutorial, using medium weight (4) yarn and a 5 mm crochet hook works well. This yarn weight gives enough body to the stitch so the clusters stand out nicely without feeling too bulky or flimsy. The 5 mm hook matches that yarn weight, allowing stitches to be neat while still letting the textured leaf shapes puff out with good definition.
If you want a softer, looser look, you can try a bigger hook with the same yarn. For a tighter, denser fabric, go down a hook size. But the 5 mm hook and medium weight yarn combo is a sweet spot to see the stitch’s full beauty.
Foundation Chain Setup
The Leaf Hopper Stitch relies on a foundation chain based on this formula:
Chain in multiples of 4 + 3
So, for example, if you want a small swatch or project, you might chain:
- 4 x 3 = 12
- Add 3 = 15 chains total
You’ll need to calculate how many stitches you want overall, then chain accordingly, always using the multiples of four plus three extra chains.
Here’s how to start:
- Chain a multiple of 4 (like 12, 16, 20, etc.)
- Add 3 more chains at the end
This foundation chain sets the stage perfectly for the Leaf Hopper stitch pattern to begin.
Understanding the Leaf Hopper Crochet Stitch
What’s in a Name?
The Leaf Hopper Stitch is a playful name. While its origins aren’t clear, the stitch’s appearance sheds some light. The clusters look like little leaves or feathers hopping along your work, which fits the vibe perfectly. The stitch is a mix of clusters with double crochets, forming a textured, almost vintage feel.
Stitch Features
The stitch uses post stitches similar to front post double crochets but combines them with puff stitch elements by pulling multiple loops before completing the cluster. This creates a fabric with depth and texture that stands out from simple rows of double crochet.
It’s not just about looks — this stitch is sturdy and warm. Because of this, it’s excellent for:
- Blankets
- Sweaters
- Shell tops
- Any project where you want a bit of texture and thickness
Row repeats & structure
The Leaf Hopper Stitch is worked over a 4-row repeat. The first row is a foundation row of plain double crochets to set the height. Then the pattern progresses in a cycle of:
- Leaf Hopper clusters across row 2
- Simple double crochet row 3
- Offset Leaf Hopper clusters row 4
- Another double crochet row 5
This repeat builds the leaf pattern nicely, making it look staggered and lively instead of stacked directly above each other.
How to Crochet the Leaf Hopper Stitch
Row 1: Foundation Row
Start by chaining your multiple of 4 + 3. Here’s the step-by-step:
- Skip the first 3 chains from the hook
- Work your first double crochet in the 4th chain
- Double crochet in each of the remaining chains until the end
- Turn your work
This row sets the right height for your stitches to come.
Row 2: Starting the Leaf Hopper Clusters
This row begins the distinctive Leaf Hopper pattern.
- Chain 3 (this counts as your first double crochet of the row)
- Double crochet in the next stitch
- Now, to create the Leaf Hopper stitch cluster:
- Yarn over and insert your hook around the post of the second double crochet you just made (like a front post double crochet) but do not finish the stitch.
- Yarn over and pull up a loop—repeat this process twice more around the same post so you have five loops on your hook.
- Yarn over and pull through four loops, leaving two loops on your hook.
- Skip the next stitch in your foundation row.
- Yarn over, and repeat the post stitch process on the next stitch’s post (similar to before). Pull up loops twice, yarn over and pull through 4 loops, leaving 2 loops again.
- Yarn over and pull through all three loops on your hook to complete the cluster.
This creates one “leaf” — a puffy cluster made over two stitches with one skipped in the middle. 4. Follow the cluster with 3 double crochets worked as:
- One double crochet in the same stitch as the second leg of your cluster (this is the stitch after the skip)
- One double crochet in the next stitch
- One double crochet in the next stitch
- Repeat the leaf cluster and three double crochets across the row, skipping a stitch for each cluster like before.
- End the row by making a double crochet in the last stitch and a double crochet on top of the turning chain.
Row 3: Simple Double Crochet Across
- Chain 3 (counts as first double crochet)
- Work one double crochet in each stitch across, including the turning chain stitch from previous row
- Turn your work
This row sets the height and base for the next Row 4 clusters.
Row 4: Leaf Hopper Stitch (Offset)
This row staggers the clusters so they don’t line up directly above row 2.
- Chain 3 (counts as first double crochet)
- Work four double crochets at the beginning of the row (including the chain 3)
- Begin the Leaf Hopper clusters by:
- Yarn over around the post of a stitch one row below
- Pull up loops as in Row 2 (with five loops on hook)
- Yarn over and pull through four loops, leaving two loops on hook
- Skip one stitch
- Repeat around the next post stitch below
- Pull through the last loops to finish the cluster
- Work three double crochets after each cluster in the next three stitches
- Continue the row repeating clusters and three double crochets until you reach the last four stitches
- Finish the row with four double crochets (including one on the turning chain)
Row 5 and Beyond: Repeat Pattern
Repeat rows 2 to 5 continuously for your project. The main difference is that:
- Row 2 starts with two double crochets, leaf clusters, then sets of three double crochets
- Row 4 starts with four double crochets before clusters, then sets of three double crochets
This offset pattern creates the signature leafy texture.
| Row | Description | Starting Double Crochets | Pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Foundation (double crochet base) | N/A | One double crochet in each chain |
| 2 | Leaf Hopper Clusters | 2 | Clusters + 3 double crochets |
| 3 | Double Crochet Row | 1 | Double crochet across |
| 4 | Offset Leaf Hopper | 4 | Clusters + 3 double crochets |
| 5 | Double Crochet Row | 1 | Double crochet across |
Repeat rows 2–5 till the desired length.
Troubleshooting Tips for the Leaf Hopper Stitch
- Skipping Stitches
Always skip exactly one stitch between clusters. This creates the “holes” needed for the puffed leaf effect. You can use a stitch marker to remind yourself or count carefully as you go. - Front Post Placement
The clusters wrap around the post of a double crochet stitch, not the top loops. Insert your hook from front to back around the post to get the correct texture. - Keeping Edges Straight
Chain 3 at the start of each row gives a consistent stitch height. Don’t forget to double crochet in the last stitch and turning chain; this keeps your edges even. - Yarn Tension
Keep your tension steady for the puffed loops in the clusters. Pull loops gently but firmly to get the right fullness without making stitches too tight or loose. - Practice Swatch
Try making a small swatch before jumping into a big project. This helps you get comfortable with the skipping and post stitch work.
Project Ideas Using the Leaf Hopper Stitch
This stitch is versatile thanks to its beautiful texture and warm fabric. You can use it in:
- Cozy blankets that showcase texture well
- Sweaters and cardigans for an interesting stitch pattern
- Shell tops or lightweight sweaters for layered looks
- Accessories like scarves or hats for a unique detail
Try switching yarn weights or hook sizes to customize texture and drape. For inspiration and patterns, check out Sandra’s collection on Ravelry for more designs featuring the Leaf Hopper stitch and other stitch combos.
If you want to join a community that learns new stitches and shares projects, consider joining the V-Stitch Club for exclusive patterns and tutorials.
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Additional Resources from SandraStitches
Sandra offers various tools and groups to help with your crochet projects:
- Join her free Facebook group for monthly challenges, live tutorials, and free patterns: Sandra’s Crochet Facebook Group
- Subscribe to her newsletter to get a handy free row tracker, perfect for keeping stitch counts straight: Free Row Tracker
- Consider the crochet project tracker from Amazon to stay organized: Crochet Project Tracker
- Keep up with her latest stitch tutorials by subscribing to the SandraStitches YouTube channel
The Leaf Hopper Stitch is a fun pattern to add to your stitching toolbox. It stands out with its puffed clusters and leaf-like texture while remaining fairly straightforward once you get the hang of the skipping and post stitch work.
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A new stitch step
- When learning a new stitch, try several yarn weights and hook sizes to understand how the stitch works and looks.
- Use light yarn colors to get the stitch to form the right shape.
- Make several swatches before starting a new project
Stay Calm and Crochet!😎
Sandra
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