It’s yet another January, and once again my goal is to master Tunisian crochet this year. I failed at accomplishing it that last two years, not because it’s difficult, but because I have so little time I can commit to crochet that I usually fall back on standard crochet because it’s quick and easy for me because I’ve been doing it for years. But I swear, this year will be different.
I did complete one project, a Tunisian Crochet infinity scarf, a few years ago. You can get the free pattern here, but this year I want to understand what can be done with Tunisian because there are so few patterns available for it. I love the look of it because it’s much more refined than crochet and looks more like knitting. I know there has to be plenty of ways I can incorporate it into my repertoire of yarn creations, but it’s going to take some time.
[content-egg module=CjLinks]Tunisian Crochet Basics – What You Need to Know to Get Started
Tunisian Crochet is also called the Afghan Crochet because it makes such a beautiful blanket. It can be very densely stitched, so the blanket is warm without having to be heavy. It’s done with a long afghan hook that has a head similar to a traditional crochet hook, but the length is between 12- and 14-inches. You can also buy double ended Tunisian crochet hook or a flex hook which combines a crochet hook with a cord (often plastic) of about 12″ with a stopper on the end to keep stitches from falling off. Some Tunisian experts swear by the Addi Turbo Interchangeable set, but they’re pricey, and it’s easy to drop stitches with them which isn’t ideal for a new crocheter. Beginners to Tunisian crochet will find the Tunisian Flex Hooks easier.
[amazon_link asins=’B0074O9ZSS,B0099VZQH8,B00DPLMXEM,B004HOW7BA,B00NQXZSRS’ template=’ProductCarousel’ store=’associateslinkbuilderplugin-20′ marketplace=’US’ link_id=’7e60ceab-f6b0-11e7-b77e-91844636b645′]Tunisian Crochet is generally worked with the front side facing you because it’s worked in Forward Pass (FwP) and Return Pass (RetP) rows – FwP rows move right to left and RetP moves left to right. Like knitting, as you move Forward, you pick up stitches onto the hook, but when you Return, you combine stitches until you have only two left. In Tunisian, it takes a FwP and RetP to complete one row.
Projects made with a Tunisian stitch starts out like most any crochet project with a foundation chain. Where the difference in traditional and Tunisian crochet really stand out is in the stitches themselves. Instead of inserting your hook into the top of the stitch like traditional crochet, the hook is inserted in the vertical bar in a Tunisian Simple Stitch (TSS).
One natural, but annoying, feature of Tunisian crochet is that it curls as you work it. You can block your project after it’s finished or use a bigger hook. You can also modify how you do your first pass into the foundation chain by going into the back ridge (sometimes called the bump) so that the stitches stack differently and are less prone to curling.
| Tunisian Crochet Abbreviations | |
| FwP | Forward Pass |
| RetP | Return Pass |
| Tbo | Tunisian Bobble |
| Tbs | Tunisian Bar Stitch |
| Tdc | Tunisian Double Crochet |
| Tfs | Tunisian Full Stitch |
| Tks | Tunisian Knit Stitch |
| Tps | Tunisian Purl Stitch |
| Trs | Tunisian Reverse Stitch |
| TSS | Tunisian Simple Stitch |
| Ttc | Tunisian Treble Crochet |
First, I’ve got to master the basics. I’ve purchased a few books so far, and I’m finding them helpful. I want to make some samples with yarn of the different stitches to see how they look in self-striping, variegated, and other multi-colored yards. It’s amazing the different looks you can get with the same yarn and different stitches.
10 Tunisian Crochet Videos to Get You Started
More of a Visual Learner? Here are 10 free tutorials and/or patterns to help you understand this knit-looking crochet technique.
[content-egg module=Youtube template=responsive_embed] [content-egg module=CjLinks]Tunisian Crochet Basics – Books and Patterns to Get You Started
I like visual learning, but a book is more my style.
[content-egg module=Amazon template=grid] [content-egg module=CjProducts template=grid] [content-egg module=Linkshare template=grid] [content-egg module=Walmart template=grid]Tunisian Crochet: Revolutions in Color and Style – Online Video Class
Merchant: Craftsy
Description: Made with a tool that’s a cross between a crochet hook and a knitting needle, Tunisian crochet adds great texture and beautiful color to Jennifer Hansen’s versatile and stylish garment.
Tunisian Crochet for Beginners – Online Video Class
Merchant: Craftsy
Description: Combine the best of two needlecrafts to create three cozy accessories that look like they are knit all using a single crochet hook!
Custom-Fit Tunisian Crochet Online Video Course
Merchant: Craftsy
Description: Crochet garments with the impeccable fit you’ve always wanted! Discover custom pattern alteration techniques as you create a chic Tunisian crochet vest.
Learn Tunisian Crochet Colorwork – Online Video Class
Merchant: Annie’s
Description: Discover how Tunisian crochet lets you create gorgeous colorwork patterns usually found only in knitting!
Tunisian Cables & Lace – Online Video Course
Merchant: Annie’s
Description: Learning Tunisian cables and lace stitches and patterns are easy and fun with this advanced beginner crochet class!
Learn to Tunisian Crochet Online Video Class
Merchant: Annie’s
Description: Get great hands-on experience as you learn Tunisian Crochet with Kim Guzman. You’ll get to crochet several beautiful projects while you practice and learn new Tunisian techniques and skills in this fun and easy beginners class.
Two-Color Tunisian Crochet in the Round DVD
Merchant: Knit Picks
Description: For those who love Tunisian Crochet, this technique for in-the-round crochet colorwork with no floats will change the way you work!
Tunisian Crochet – Interweave Crochet Workshop
Merchant: Knit Picks
Description: Tunisian crochet (sometimes called afghan crochet) combines elements of knitting and crochet for pieces that are fun-to-make and beautiful to wear – including unique sweaters and shawls.
Tunisian Crochet Encore – New Stitches, Techniques & Patterns
Merchant: Knit Picks
Description: Knitters and crocheters alike love Sheryl Thies’s beautiful Tunisian crochet designs – featuring fine and romantic details like ladder lacing and subtle beadwork.
Tunisian Crochet for Baby
Description: Your baby will look smart and cozy in garments and accessories made in Tunisian crochet. From sweaters to blankets and booties, every crafter will find a pattern to make for any baby in their life.
Short Row Tunisian Fashion – Afghan Stitch Crochet Patterns
Merchant: Leisure Arts, Inc.
Description: Tunisian crochet is so rewarding! What could possibly make it better? Working in Short Rows! Each project in this book is actually a series of small fabric segments that are quick to complete. In less time than you might imagine, you’ll make fun hats, and more.
52 Tunisian Crochet Stitches to Make an Afghan Stitch Sampler eBook
Merchant: Leisure Arts, Inc.
Description: This is a great start for beginners! Afghan Stitch, also known as Tunisian Crochet, is a versatile technique that can be used to make afghans and many other projects. Easy to do, each specialized series of simple stitches produces a unique fabric.
Learn Double-Ended Tunisian Crochet
Merchant: Annie’s
Description: Create these amazing patterns with a double-ended Tunisian crochet hook. You use a double-ended hook and work from both ends of the hook instead of an afghan hook. The technique section in this book introduces you to using the double-ended hook in flat projects, then it progresses to tubular
Tunisian Crochet Placemats & Coasters
Merchant: Annie’s
Description: You will love these 4 pretty place mat-and-coaster sets stitched using popular Tunisian stitches. Each placemat measures 18″W x 12″L and coasters are 4″ square. All are made using Bernat Maker Home Dec #6 super chunky-weight yarn.
ANNIE’S SIGNATURE DESIGNS: Tunisian Scrubbies Crochet Pattern
Merchant: Annie’s
Description: This set is sure to keep you squeaky clean. The mini pads are great for applying toner, face wash or lotions to your face. Crochet with worsted-weight cotton yarn and a U.S. size K/10 1/2/6.5mm Tunisian hook.
Tunisian Argyle Throw Crochet Pattern
Merchant: Annie’s
Description: Worked in panels and joined together with solid-colored cable strips, you can choose colors to match your decor for a perfect accent. The design is made using 8 skeins of #9703 bone and 3 skeins each of #9780 robin’s egg and #9702 off-white Caron Simply Soft
Setting Sun Tunisian Shawl Pattern
Merchant: Annie’s
Description: Crocheted in an open, knit-look Tunisian stitch, the multi-textural yarn, and striking colors create the bold look. The design is made using a #3 DK-weight yarn. Size: One size fits most.
Embroidered Tunisian Mittens Crochet Pattern
Merchant: Annie’s
Description: Design is made using #3 Berroco Vintage DK weight yarn and H/8/5mm Tunisian crochet hook. The project uses 1 hank each of #2106 smoke, #2150 berries and #2100 snow day. Finished Size: woman’s S (M, L).
Pretty Tunisian Topper Crochet Pattern
Merchant: Annie’s
Description: This light and lacy design is simple to make using a #2 sport-weight yarn and size M/13/9mm Tunisian crochet hook. Finished Measurements: S/M (L/XL, 2XL/3XL); 16″ (18″, 19″) W x 50″ (53″, 56″) L before folding and seaming.
Tunisian Colorwork Cowl Pattern
Merchant: Annie’s
Description: This striking cowl is made using #4 worsted-weight yarn and a size H/8/5mm crochet hook and is topped off with 3 wooden toggle buttons. Size: 9″W x 32″L.
Tunisian Kitchen Set Pattern
Merchant: Annie’s
Description: You can now learn the basics of Tunisian crochet and make a pretty kitchen set at the same time. This set is made using 2 colors of #4 worsted-weight cotton yarn. The towel is 12″W x 18″L from top of handle to bottom and the dishcloth is 9″ square.
Autumn Leaves Afghan Tunisian Crochet Pattern
Merchant: Annie’s
Description: Dress up your home for the changing seasons! Capture the color and crispness of fall as you create carry-along afghan-stitch motifs from solid and variegated worsted yarn in this fresh-as-all-outdoors family favorite!
Tunisian Shells Throw Crochet Pattern
Merchant: Annie’s
Description: This unique Tunisian shell stitch throw is made using 8 skeins of King Cole Fashion Aran #4 worsted-weight yarn. Size: 45″W x 50″L including border.
Afghan Stitch Afghans – Tunisian Crochet Patterns
Merchant: Annie’s
Description: They’re luscious and gorgeous at the same time. Five great designs. Soft-to-the-touch elegance. If you haven’t given it a try, here’s your perfect opportunity to try your hand at the Afghan stitch.
Boye Tunisian Afghan Crochet Hook Aluminum 14 in. Size I (5.25 mm)
Merchant:CreateForLess
Description: Boye Aluminum Tunisian Afghan Crochet Hooks feature the preferred taper throat and smooth rounded head. Precision-crafted quality assures a fine finish and accuracy of gauge. Perfect for Tunisian, Tricot Crochet and Shepherd’s Knitting techniques. 14 inch
Boye Tunisian Afghan Crochet Hook Aluminum 14 in. Size H (5 mm)
Merchant:CreateForLess
Description: Boye Aluminum Tunisian Afghan Crochet Hooks feature the preferred taper throat and smooth rounded head. Precision-crafted quality assures a fine finish and accuracy of gauge. Perfect for Tunisian, Tricot Crochet and Shepherd’s Knitting techniques. 14 inch
Boye Tunisian Afghan Crochet Hook Aluminum 14 in. Size G (4.25 mm)
Merchant:CreateForLess
Description: Boye Aluminum Tunisian Afghan Crochet Hooks feature the preferred taper throat and smooth rounded head. Precision-crafted quality assures a fine finish and accuracy of gauge. Perfect for Tunisian, Tricot Crochet and Shepherd’s Knitting techniques. 14 inch
Boye® 14″ Tunisian Afghan Crochet Hooks
Merchant: Annie’s
Description: Boye® 14″ Aluminum Afghan Crochet Hooks feature a tapered throat and round tip. Perfect for Tunisian, Tricot Crochet and Shepherd’s Knitting techniques.
Clover Double Ended Tunisian Crochet Hooks
Merchant: Craftsy
Description: These Double-Ended Tunisian Crochet Hooks make it easy to combine two colors of yarn or crochet in the round. Made from high-quality bamboo, you can use them in your work repeatedly without fear of splintering
Clover Crochet Hook Tunisian Double Ended Size J
Merchant:CreateForLess
Description: Clover Crochet Hooks are perfect to satisfy your love of crocheting. Tunisian Double Ended Size J- Tunisian Crochet is simple and it is easy to combine 2 colors of yarn and crochet in the round. This hook is made of Bamboo and comes with detailed instructions
Clover Crochet Hook Tunisian Double Ended Size H
Merchant:CreateForLess
Description: Clover Crochet Hooks are perfect to satisfy your love of crocheting. Tunisian Double Ended Size H- Tunisian Crochet is simple and it is easy to combine 2 colors of yarn and crochet in the round. This hook is made of Bamboo and comes with detailed instructions
Clover Crochet Hook Tunisian Double Ended Size I
Merchant:CreateForLess
Description: Clover Crochet Hooks are perfect to satisfy your love of crocheting. Tunisian Double Ended Size I- Tunisian Crochet is simple and it is easy to combine 2 colors of yarn and crochet in the round. This hook is made of Bamboo and comes with detailed instructions
Have you tried Tunisian Crochet yet?
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