Tunisian Crochet Stitches You Need To Know

Recently I’ve been diving into the world of Tunisian crochet and I’m absolutely loving learning new Tunisian crochet stitches! So much so, that I am making my 2021 temperature blanket using the Tunisian Simple Stitch.

I’m making three panels using Tunisian simple stitch and can’t wait to watch this project grow over the next year. If you haven’t already started a 2021 crochet temperature blanket, it’s not too late to begin now. You can find some inspiration with my blog post Ten Temperature Blanket Crochet Patterns. I’ve opted for Stylecraft Special DK yarn, it’s one of my favourites – inexpensive, soft and available in a huge range of colours making it perfect for a temperature blanket.

What Is Tunisian Crochet?

Tunisian crochet is a unique technique that blends elements of both knitting and traditional crochet. One of the key differences is the tool you use: instead of a standard crochet hook, Tunisian crochet requires a longer hook to hold multiple stitches at once—similar to how knitting needles hold stitches. There are also Tunisian crochet hooks with long cords, which are great for larger projects like blankets or shawls.

If you’re just starting out and don’t want to invest in new hooks, don’t worry! You can try smaller Tunisian crochet projects, like headbands or coasters, using a regular crochet hook.

What Is The Difference Between Traditional And Tunisian Crochet?

A major difference in Tunisian crochet is how you work your rows. Unlike traditional crochet, where you turn your work at the end of every row, Tunisian crochet always works on the right side of the fabric. Each row consists of two steps: a forward pass, where you pick up loops (working right to left), and a return pass, where you close those loops (working left to right).

This technique creates a thicker, denser fabric with gorgeous stitch textures that stand out from standard crochet. It’s incredibly versatile, and whether you’re crafting cozy blankets, durable bags, or intricate scarves, there’s a Tunisian stitch perfect for your project.

If Tunisian crochet is something you would like to try, I’ve compiled a list of some of my favorite Tunisian crochet stitches!

Tunisian Simple Stitch

If you’re new to Tunisian crochet, the Tunisian Simple Stitch is the perfect place to start. It’s the foundation stitch for many Tunisian crochet patterns and has a clean, woven look that works for a variety of projects.

What It Looks Like

The Tunisian Simple Stitch creates a smooth and slightly textured fabric with visible vertical bars. It’s versatile enough to stand alone or serve as a backdrop for more complex patterns.

How to Make It

1. Insert your hook under the front vertical bar of the stitch from the previous row.
2. Yarn over and pull up a loop, keeping it on your hook.
3. Repeat across the row.
4. Return Pass: Yarn over, pull through one loop (chain one), then yarn over and pull through two loops at a time across the row.

Tunisian Simple Stitch Video Tutorial

Best Projects for the Tunisian Simple Stitch

• Beginner-friendly blankets
• Washcloths and dishcloths
• Scarves and cowls

This stitch is perfect for anyone learning Tunisian crochet because it helps you get comfortable with the unique technique of holding multiple loops on your hook.

Tunisian Knit Stitch

The Tunisian Knit Stitch brings the look of traditional knitting to your crochet projects, combining the best of both worlds. This stitch creates a smooth, fabric-like texture that mimics the soft, cozy feel of knitted fabric, but with all the benefits of crochet. Tunisian crochet isn’t the only way to make knit-like stitches though, you can create a similar effect with tradition crochet by using the waistcoat stitch – watch my waistcoat stitch tutorial here.

What It Looks Like

The Tunisian Knit Stitch creates a neat, vertical texture that resembles a classic knit fabric. It has a slightly raised, smooth appearance, making it perfect for garments or accessories where you want a soft, drapey finish.

How to Make It

1. Insert your hook under both vertical bars of the last stitch and pull up a loop, repeat across the row.
2. Work a return pass.

Tips for the Tunisian Knit Stitch

• Keep your tension even to achieve that smooth, knit-like texture.
• This stitch tends to be dense, so consider using a larger hook to help with drape.
• Practice on a small swatch to perfect your technique before diving into a larger project.

Best Projects for the Tunisian Knit Stitch

• Cozy scarves and shawls
• Soft sweaters and cardigans
• Blankets with a knit-like texture

The Tunisian Knit Stitch is a great choice if you love the look of knitting but want to stay within the world of crochet.

Tunisian Knit Stitch Video Tutorial

Tunisian Full Stitch

The Tunisian Full Stitch creates a dense, solid fabric with little to no gaps. If you’re looking for something sturdy and warm, this stitch is an excellent choice.

What It Looks Like

The Tunisian Full Stitch has a tight, uniform texture that’s great for projects that need structure. It’s slightly more textured than the Simple Stitch but remains clean and straightforward.

How to Make It

1. Insert your hook between the vertical bars of the stitches instead of under them and pull up a loop, repeat across the row.
2. Follow the standard return pass (yarn over, pull through one loop, then yarn over and pull through two loops across).
3. Skip the first stitch, insert your hook between the vertical bars of the stitches instead of under them and pull up a loop, repeat across the row.
4. Work a standard return pass.
5. Repeat steps 1-4
   

Tips for the Tunisian Full Stitch

• Be careful with your stitch placement, as it’s easy to add or lose stitches unintentionally.
• Watch your tension; pulling too tightly can make the fabric stiff and hard to work with.

Best Projects for the Tunisian Full Stitch

• Sturdy bags and totes
• Pot holders and trivets
• Winter blankets

The density of this stitch makes it perfect for items that need durability or warmth.

Tunisian Mesh Stitch

If you love open, airy textures, the Tunisian Mesh Stitch will become your new favorite. It combines Tunisian crochet with lacework to create a lightweight, breathable fabric.

What It Looks Like

This stitch produces an open, grid-like fabric that’s perfect for summer projects. The mesh effect is created by combining yarn overs with skipped stitches.

How to Make It

1. Insert your hook into the front vertical bar of the next stitch.
2. Yarn over and pull up a loop.
3. Yarn over again, skip the next stitch, and insert your hook into the following front vertical bar.
4. Continue alternating this pattern across the row.
5. Work a return pass as usual.

Best Projects for the Tunisian Mesh Stitch

• Market bags and reusable produce bags
• Lightweight shawls or wraps
• Summer garments

The Tunisian Mesh Stitch is a beautiful way to add texture and breathability to your crochet work.

Tunisian Smock Stitch

The Tunisian Smock Stitch is where things start to get really interesting. This stunning stitch creates a quilted, diamond-like texture that makes your projects look like they took hours to perfect.

What It Looks Like

The Smock Stitch produces a raised, interwoven texture that looks like a quilt or lattice. It’s visually striking and perfect for statement pieces.

How to Make It

1. Work a row of Tunisian Simple Stitches.
2. Tunisian Simple Stitch 2 Together, yarn under, continue alternating this pattern across the row.
3. Work a return pass as usual.
4. Tunisian Simple Stitch 1, (Tunisian Simple Stitch 2 Together, yarn under), across to last 2 stitchess, Tunisian Simple Stitch 1.
5. Work a return pass as normal.
6. Repeat steps 2-5.

Tips for the Tunisian Smock Stitch

• Consistent tension is key. Loose stitches can lose the quilted look.
• Practice on small swatches to get comfortable with the stitch placement.

Best Projects for the Tunisian Smock Stitch

• Decorative pillows
• Statement blankets
• Textured scarves or cowls

If you’re looking for a stitch to wow your friends or elevate a project, the Smock Stitch is a must-try.

Tunisian Double Seed Stitch

The Tunisian Double Seed Stitch combines knit-like and purl-like stitches to create a textured, bumpy fabric. It’s cozy, versatile, and perfect for projects where you want texture without bulk.

What It Looks Like

This stitch alternates between Tunisian knit and purl stitches, resulting in a seed-like texture that’s both subtle and interesting.

How to Make It

1. Alternate between a Tunisian Knit Stitch and a Tunisian Purl Stitch across the row.
2. Work a return pass.
3. Repeat steps 1-2 once more.
4. On the next row, reverse the pattern: Purl into the knit stitches and knit into the purl stitches.
5. Work a return pass.
6. Repeat steps 4-5 once more.
7. Repeat 1-6 to create the bumpy seed texture.

Best Projects for the Tunisian Double Seed Stitch

• Cozy cowls and scarves
• Garments with textured panels
• Warm, textured throws

The Double Seed Stitch is perfect for adding dimension and coziness to your projects.

Tunisian Wave Stitch

The Tunisian Wave Stitch adds a touch of movement and color to your projects. This stitch creates a beautiful wave pattern that mimics the gentle flow of ocean waves, making it perfect for adding interest to blankets or shawls.

What It Looks Like

The Tunisian Wave Stitch creates a series of undulating waves, with peaks and valleys that give your fabric a fluid, dynamic feel. It’s an eye-catching stitch that’s perfect for projects where you want to add some visual interest without overwhelming the overall design.

How to Make It

1. Work a row of Tunisian Simple Stitches.
2. (Tunisian Simple Stitch 2, Tunisian Double Crochet 4, Tunisian Simple Stitch 2, Tunisian Slip Stitch 2), repeat across, change color on the last stitch.
3. Work a return pass.
4. Tunisian Simple Stitch across the row, change color on the last stitch.
5. Work a return pass.
6. Chain 1, Tunisian Double Crochet 1 (Tunisian Simple Stitch 2, Tunisian Slip Stitch 2, Tunisian Simple Stitch 2, Tunisian Double Crochet 4) repeat across the row, change color on the last stitch.
7. Work a return pass.
8. Tunisian Simple Stitch across the row, change color on the last stitch.
9. Work a return pass.
10. Repeat steps 2-9

Tips for the Tunisian Wave Stitch

• Carry colors up the work when not in use. Do not cut the yarn between rows.
• Work the Wave Stitch over a multiple of 10 plus 2 when creating the foundation chain.
• Practice on a small swatch before committing to a larger project.

Best Projects for the Tunisian Wave Stitch

• Throw blankets with a soothing wave pattern
• Lightweight shawls or scarves
• Textured pillows or cushions

The Tunisian Wave Stitch is perfect if you’re looking to add movement and texture to your crochet pieces while keeping the overall design soft and fluid.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What tools do I need for Tunisian crochet?

To get started with Tunisian crochet, you’ll need a Tunisian crochet hook, which is longer than a regular crochet hook to hold multiple loops at once. These hooks can be straight with a long handle or come with a flexible cord, depending on the size of your project. For smaller swatches or beginner projects, you can use a standard crochet hook—just make sure it doesn’t have a thumb grip, as that can snag the yarn.

Q: How does Tunisian crochet differ from regular crochet?

The main difference lies in how you work the stitches and the tools you use. In Tunisian crochet, you keep multiple loops on the hook at once—similar to knitting—by working a forward pass (picking up loops) and a return pass (closing the loops). In regular crochet, you complete each stitch one at a time, turning your work at the end of each row. Tunisian crochet always works on the right side of the fabric.

Q: What yarn is best for Tunisian crochet?

The best yarn for Tunisian crochet depends on your project, but smooth, medium-weight yarns like worsted weight or DK yarn are great for beginners. Avoid overly fuzzy or textured yarns at first, as they can make it harder to see the vertical bars and stitch placement.

Q: Does Tunisian crochet take longer than regular crochet?

Tunisian crochet can take a little longer because you work each row in two steps: a forward pass and a return pass. However, the resulting fabric tends to be denser and more structured, making it well worth the extra time for certain projects.

Q: Can I mix Tunisian crochet with regular crochet?

Absolutely! Many patterns combine Tunisian crochet with traditional crochet for unique effects. For example, you can use Tunisian stitches for panels in blankets, sweaters, or bags, while using regular crochet for borders, edging, or joining pieces together.

Q: Is Tunisian crochet difficult to learn?

Not at all! Tunisian crochet is beginner-friendly, especially if you’re already familiar with basic crochet techniques. Start with simple stitches like the Tunisian Simple Stitch, and gradually work your way up to more textured stitches. With a bit of practice, you’ll find Tunisian crochet both enjoyable and rewarding.

Unlock New Creative Possibilities with Tunisian Crochet Stitches

By now, you’ve got a solid foundation of 6 must-try Tunisian crochet stitches to inspire your next project, from beginner-friendly basics like the Tunisian Simple Stitch to show-stopping textures like the Tunisian Smock Stitch and Diagonal Lattice Stitch. Whether you’re crafting cozy blankets, stylish garments, or eye-catching home decor, Tunisian crochet has a stitch for every idea.

If you haven’t already, grab your hook, some yarn, and give Tunisian crochet a try! It’s a skill that will not only elevate your crochet repertoire but also introduce you to a whole new world of possibilities.