Tunisian Crochet Basics: Your First Steps into the Technique

Tunisian crochet – sometimes called Afghan crochet – is a fascinating hybrid between knitting and crocheting. The fabric is denser than regular crochet, with a look that often resembles knitted stitches. For beginners, it's an exciting new technique that can be learned quickly with just a few basic stitches.

🔧 Tools You'll Need

For Tunisian crochet, you'll need special hooks:

• Short hooks (like regular crochet hooks) – great for small projects such as swatches or potholders.

• Long hooks with a stopper – perfect for scarves or wider pieces.

• Hooks with a flexible cable – ideal for large projects like blankets, as they hold many stitches.

👉 Tip: Choose a larger hook size than you'd normally use (1–2 sizes bigger) to avoid a fabric that's too stiff.

📚 The Basics

Tunisian crochet works in forward and return passes:

• In the forward pass, you pick up loops across the row, leaving them on the hook.

• In the return pass, you work them off, leaving one loop at the end.

This creates a firm, structured fabric that's neither traditional crochet nor knitting.

🔍 Basic Stitches – Your First Steps

Tunisian Simple Stitch (TSS) – the classic

1. Insert hook into the vertical bar of the stitch.

2. Yarn over and pull through (loop remains on hook).

3. Repeat across the row.
   👉 Creates the woven "signature" Tunisian look.

Tunisian Knit Stitch (TKS) – knit-like

1. Insert hook through the stitch as if knitting.

2. Yarn over and pull through.
   👉 The result looks just like knitted stockinette.

Tunisian Purl Stitch (TPS) – textured

1. Bring yarn to the front.

2. Insert hook into the vertical bar, yarn over, pull through.
   👉 Creates a purl-like effect, ideal for textured patterns.

🎯 Easy Beginner Projects

With just these stitches, you can already create useful items:

• Potholders – thick and heat-resistant.

• Scarves – the perfect beginner project to practice rows.

• Cushion covers – add structure and visual interest.

👉 Note: Tunisian fabric tends to curl. A border of single crochet or double crochet helps to keep it flat.

⚖️ Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Creates strong, durable fabric.

• Offers unique textures not possible with regular crochet.

• Great for accessories and home décor.

Cons:

• Fabric tends to curl.

• Less elastic than knitted fabric.

• Slightly more limited in stitch variety.

🌟 Tips for Beginners 

• Always swatch: Tunisian crochet can come out much denser than expected.

• Use a larger hook: Prevents stiff, tight fabric.

• Yarn choice: Smooth yarns (cotton, merino) are best for learning; avoid fluffy yarns until you're confident.

• Practice consistently: After a few rows, the rhythm becomes natural.

🧶 My Takeaway:

Tunisian crochet is the perfect next step for anyone looking to expand their skills. With only three basic stitches, you can explore endless possibilities – from practical kitchen helpers to modern, textured accessories.

👀 Have you tried Tunisian crochet yet? What project would you love to make with it – scarves, blankets, or something more adventurous?
Share your work with #strickenimtrend #maschenmitliebe – I'd love to see your ideas! 

#Technique #strickenimtrend #maschenmitliebe #tunisianCrochet #crochetbasics

Whether Simple Stitch or Knit Stitch – Tunisian crochet bridges two worlds and brings variety to your hook. 

Yours,
Kathrin 💛

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