Tunisian Crochet Tutorial

Welcome to the textured, tactile world of Tunisian crochet. This captivating technique bridges the grace of knitting with the comforting rhythm of traditional crochet, inviting you to slow down and savour the creative process.

Whether you're brand new to yarn crafts or looking to stretch your skills, this tutorial will walk you through everything you need to know to get started with Tunisian crochet. From tool recommendations and essential stitches to beginner-friendly projects and troubleshooting tips, you'll find inspiration and guidance here to help you explore this meditative craft.

What is Tunisian Crochet?

Tunisian crochet, also known as Afghan crochet, is a hybrid technique that combines the motion of crochet with the look and rhythm of knitting. It uses a long hook, sometimes with a stopper or a flexible cable, to hold multiple loops on the hook, much like knitting. Each row is worked in two parts: the forward pass (picking up loops) and the return pass (working them off).

How Tunisian Crochet Differs from Traditional Crochet and Knitting

Unlike traditional crochet, where each stitch is completed as you go, Tunisian crochet gathers loops onto the hook during the forward pass, then works them off on the return pass. This means you're effectively building a row in two parts.

Compared to knitting, Tunisian crochet uses just one hook and doesn't require holding multiple needles. The fabric often has less stretch than knitting but more structure, making it ideal for home decor and warm accessories.

Visually, you'll spot vertical bars in Tunisian crochet—these are where your hook will dance in and out as you create the stitches. The effect is a beautifully textured surface that can range from dense and warm to open and lacy.

Essential Tools and Materials

Getting started in Tunisian crochet doesn't require a huge investment, but quality tools make the experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Tunisian Crochet Hooks

Standard crochet hooks work for small projects, but for Tunisian crochet, you'll want a longer or interchangeable hook. We recommend the Addi Double-Ended Tunisian Hook in 4.5mm for double-ended practice. For larger pieces or greater versatility, consider investing in a set like the Lykke Interchangeable Tunisian Crochet Hook Set.

Recommended Yarn Types

Opt for smooth, natural-fibre yarns in lighter colours so you can easily see your stitches. Wool, cotton, and linen work beautifully, providing texture, warmth, and sustainability. Avoid highly textured or synthetic blends when starting, as they can obscure stitch visibility.

Great beginner-friendly yarns:

• Knitting for Olive No Waste Wool
• Ashford NZ Wool Triple Knit
• Harrisville Designs Highland
• Maurice Brassard Organic Cotton 8/2
• Knitting for Olive Pure Silk
• Knitting for Olive Cotton Merino
• Malabrigo Rios

Optional Accessories

• Stitch markers to mark rows or stitch repeats
• Wool needles for weaving in ends
• Blocking tools for shaping finished pieces
• A project journal for notes and sketches
• Unicorn Fibre Wash and Rinse to care for your makes

Foundational Tunisian Crochet Stitches

Let's explore the four beginner Tunisian crochet stitches you'll use most. Each has its own texture and personality, offering endless ways to express your creativity.

Tunisian Simple Stitch (TSS)

The most common stitch, TSS, is worked by inserting your hook under the vertical front bar of each stitch, drawing up a loop, and completing a return pass. It creates a tight, grid-like texture that's great for washcloths and structured items. For a step-by-step demonstration, please refer to the video above.

Tunisian Knit Stitch (TKS)

TKS mimics the look of knitting. Insert your hook between the front and back vertical bars, draw up a loop, and continue. The resulting fabric is stretchy and soft, making it ideal for scarves and garments. For a step-by-step demonstration, please refer to the video above.

Tunisian Purl Stitch (TPS)

Much like the purl in knitting, this stitch involves bringing the yarn to the front before inserting the hook and drawing up a loop. It creates a bumpy, highly textured surface that contrasts beautifully with smoother stitches. For a step-by-step demonstration, please refer to the video above.

Tunisian Full Stitch (TFS)

Worked between stitches rather than under the vertical bars, the TFS creates an airy, lacy fabric. This is perfect for lighter items like shawls or decorative table runners. For a step-by-step demonstration, please refer to the video above.

Beginner-Friendly Tunisian Crochet Projects

Once you've got the hang of a few stitches, it's time to put them into practice. These projects are designed to build skill, confidence, and joy.

Dishcloth or Washcloth

A square made in TSS is the perfect way to practise tension, stitch consistency, and neat edges. Use natural cotton such as Full Circles Australian DK Cotton for softness and absorbency. Simply cast on your desired number of stitches (this will vary depending on the size of yarn and hook used) and work until your cloth is your desired end size.

Simple Scarf

Create subtle stripes and texture by alternating Tunisian Knit Stitch (TKS) and Tunisian Purl Stitch (TPS). For the best drape and softness, choose a quality wool yarn such as Knitting for Olive Heavy Merino or Harrisville Designs Shetland.

Hat

A bit more advanced but very rewarding, hats are a great way to practice shaping and smooth stitch transitions. They're also perfect for gifting—stylish, useful, and fun to make in Tunisian crochet.

Tips for Success

• Curling? That's normal for Tunisian crochet, especially with TSS. Block your project or incorporate border stitches to help.
• Tension matters. Keep it relaxed but consistent. Swatch before beginning a larger project.
• Pace yourself. Tunisian crochet can be gentler on hands than knitting or traditional crochet, but don't rush. Let it be meditative.

Embrace the Flow of Tunisian Crochet

Learning Tunisian crochet is like being welcomed into a slower, more intentional rhythm of making. With every stitch, you're not just building fabric, you're cultivating focus, joy, and connection to the materials in your hands.

Whether you're drawn to the texture, the tradition, or the tranquillity of it all, we invite you to explore Thread Collective's curated collection of sustainable yarns, thoughtfully designed hooks, and tools that elevate your creative experience.

Because at the heart of Tunisian crochet is community—a shared love of making. Let's grow in this craft together!