How to make Ret1-FPpuff

This photo tutorial explains how to crochet the Return 1 Front Post Puff Stitch (Ret1-FPpuff), a variation of the Front Post Puff Stitch worked one stitch back in the working row. By shifting the stitch placement and working around the post two rows below, this technique creates a distinctive textured effect that adds movement and depth to crochet patterns. In this tutorial, you will find clear step-by-step instructions, visual references, and chart symbols to help you confidently use the Ret1-FPpuff in your crochet projects.

Finished Return 1 Front Post Puff Stitch showing the completed texture and stitch definition in crochet

How to read the abbreviation “Ret1-FPpuff”:

  • Ret = return → this means you go back to a stitch that was made earlier.
  • 1 = the number of stitches you go back. In this case, 1 stitch back to the previous stitch.
  • FPpuff = the stitch you are going to make. Here, it is a Front Post puff stitch.

So, Ret1-FPpuff  means: Return back 1 stitch and work a Front Post puff stitch around the post of that stitch (usually two rows below).

What does “second row below” mean?

When you see “work around the post of the stitch located two rows below,” it means that instead of inserting your hook into the working row, you reach down two rows.

Crochet row placement reference showing the working row, first row below, and second row below for a Return 1 Front Post Puff Stitch

Step-by-step instructions

Ret1-FPpuff – return 1 stitch back and work front post puff stitch: return to the previous stitch in the working row; yarn over, insert the hook from front to back to front around the stitch two rows below the working row and draw up a loop (rep 4 times); yo and draw through all 9 loops on a hook. Always skip a stitch behind Ret1-FPpuff.

Returning one stitch back in the working row and inserting the hook from front to back to front around the post two rows below for a Return 1 Front Post Puff Stitch
Yarn over and pull up a loop around the post, creating three loops on the hook for a Return 1 Front Post Puff Stitch
Repeating yarn over and pulling up loops around the post to build a Return 1 Front Post Puff Stitch with nine loops on the hook

Depending on the pattern design, yarn weight, or personal preference, the yarn over and pull-up step may be repeated 2–3 times or up to 5 times. The number of repetitions determines how full and puffy the FP Puff stitch appears. Always refer to the Stitches section of the pattern for specific instructions.

Final yarn over and pulling the yarn through all loops on the hook to close a Return 1 Front Post Puff Stitch
Skipping the stitch in the working row behind the Return 1 Front Post Puff Stitch to maintain correct stitch placement

In charts, this stitch is shown using the standard Puff stitch symbol, but worked 2 rows below.

Crochet chart symbol showing how the Return 1 Front Post Puff Stitch is represented in stitch diagrams

Ret1-FPpuff is essentially a standard Front Post puff stitch, but worked into a specific location. Depending on the pattern, it may be worked around a single crochet (sc), front post double crochet (FPdc), front post treble crochet (FPtr), or even another FPpuff two rows below. When working the stitch, always insert your hook around the narrow vertical section of the post that forms as the stitch is completed, just below the top loops. This ensures consistent stitch placement and a clean, well-defined texture.

Insert the hook around the narrow vertical part of the stitch just below the top loops when working a return one Front Post Puff Stitch

TUTORIAL REMINDERS

  • This tutorial is intended for personal use only. Reproduction, distribution, or commercial use without the designer’s permission is not allowed.
  • For any questions about the pattern or techniques used, please refer to the stitch glossary of your pattern or contact the designer:

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