Master The Tunisian Knit Stitch: A Complete Guide With Tutorial

If you’ve ever admired the look of knitted fabric but prefer working with a crochet hook, the Tunisian knit stitch is your dream come true. This stitch has a beautiful, dense texture that looks just like knitting but is created entirely with a Tunisian crochet hook. It’s perfect for everything from garments to blankets, and once you get the hang of it, you’ll be flying through your next Tunisian crochet project.

In this post, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the Tunisian knit stitch. We’ll cover the basics, dive into a detailed written tutorial, and include a video demonstration to ensure you nail this technique. Plus, I’ll share project ideas, tools you’ll need, and tips to troubleshoot common issues.

What Is the Tunisian Knit Stitch?

The Tunisian knit stitch (TKS) is one of the most popular stitches in Tunisian crochet because of its unique ability to mimic knitted fabric. Unlike traditional crochet stitches that create a looser, more open texture, the TKS produces a dense, structured fabric with a knit-like appearance.

Here’s what sets the Tunisian knit stitch apart:

• Appearance: It looks just like stockinette stitch in knitting, with neat rows of “v” shapes running across the fabric.

• Technique: It’s worked using a forward and return pass, a hallmark of Tunisian crochet that sets it apart from traditional crochet.

• Versatility: This stitch works beautifully for garments, blankets, and textured accessories like scarves, hats, and cowls. Its polished look makes it a favorite for both functional and decorative projects.

If you’re new to Tunisian crochet, don’t worry. The Tunisian knit stitch is beginner-friendly and a great place to start. It combines the comfort of crocheting with the sleek, tailored look of knitting—the best of both worlds! My Tunisian Simple Stitch tutorial is another great resource to learn foundational Tunisian Crochet techniques.

Tools Needed

Before diving into the tutorial, make sure you have the right tools to make your Tunisian knit stitch experience smooth and enjoyable:

• Tunisian Crochet Hook: These hooks are longer than traditional crochet hooks to accommodate multiple loops. Start with a 6mm hook for worsted-weight yarn or adjust based on your chosen yarn. I recommend using a hook 1 or 2 sizes up from the recommended hook size for the yarn.

• Yarn: Worsted-weight yarn is ideal for beginners, as it’s easy to handle. Choose smooth, non-textured yarns for practice.

• Optional Accessories: Consider using stitch markers to keep track of edge stitches.

• Blocking Tools: If your fabric curls (a common trait of Tunisian crochet), blocking mats and pins can help shape and smooth out your finished piece.

How to Crochet the Tunisian Knit Stitch (TSS)

Here’s a step-by-step guide to mastering the Tunisian knit stitch. Whether you’re a beginner or just need a refresher, these instructions will have you stitching with confidence in no time:

1. Chain: Start with a slip knot and chain your desired number of stitches. This chain will form the base of your project.
2. Foundation Forward Pass: Insert your hook into the second chain from the hook, yarn over, and pull up a loop. Leave the loop on the hook. Repeat this process across the row until you’ve picked up a loop from each chain.
3. Return Pass: Yarn over and pull through one loop on your hook. This completes the edge stitch. Yarn over again and pull through two loops. Repeat this process (yarn over, pull through two) until only one loop remains on your hook.
4. Tunisian Knit Stitch (Forward Pass): Insert your hook between the front and back vertical bars of the next stitch, pushing the hook all the way to the back of the fabric. Yarn over and pull up a loop. Leave the loop on your hook. Repeat across the row, ensuring you work into each vertical bar.
5. Return Pass: Yarn over and pull through one loop on your hook. This completes the edge stitch. Yarn over again and pull through two loops. Repeat this process (yarn over, pull through two) until only one loop remains on your hook.

Repeat Steps 4 and 5 until your piece reaches the desired size, then follow the steps below to bind off.

Bind Off: Insert your hook between the front and back vertical bars of the next stitch, yarn over, and pull through both loops on the hook (this is a slip stitch). Continue this process across the row. For the last stitch, make sure to insert your hook under the two loops of the edge stitch, yarn over, and pull through both loops on the hook.

Tunisian Knit Stitch Video Tutorial

For visual learners, I’ve created a detailed video tutorial walking you through each step of the Tunisian knit stitch. Follow along as I demonstrate the foundation row, forward pass, return pass, and binding off.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even seasoned crocheters run into challenges when trying something new. Here are some common mistakes with the Tunisian knit stitch and how to overcome them:

1. Tension Troubles: Curling edges are a natural tendency of Tunisian crochet. Combat this by using a larger hook size or blocking your finished project.

1. Uneven Edges: Missing or inconsistent edge stitches can throw off your entire piece. Mark edge stitches with a stitch marker to ensure consistency.

1. Confusing Stitch Placement: Make sure you’re inserting your hook between the front and back vertical bars. This placement creates the signature “v” appearance of the Tunisian knit stitch.

1. Too Tight Loops: If your loops are too tight on the hook, it can make the return pass difficult. Relax your tension and practice keeping your loops uniform.

Project Ideas Using the Tunisian Knit Stitch

The Tunisian knit stitch isn’t just beautiful; it’s also versatile! Here are some fantastic project ideas to get you started:

• Scarves and Cowls: Perfect for showcasing the knit-like texture, these accessories are warm and stylish.

• Blankets: Whether you’re making a baby blanket or a full-sized throw, the dense structure of the Tunisian knit stitch adds a cozy touch.

• Dishcloths or Washcloths: These smaller projects are ideal for practice and make practical, durable items for your home.

• Garments: Create polished sweaters or cardigans that look like they’ve been knit but with the ease of crochet.

If you’re interested in expanding your skills, you might enjoy my blog post on Tunisian crochet stitches for beginners.

Wrapping Up Your Tunisian Knit Stitch Journey

The Tunisian knit stitch is a stunning and versatile technique that brings a knit-like appearance to your crochet projects. Whether you’re making cozy scarves, elegant garments, or textured blankets, this stitch is fab.

I hope this tutorial has inspired you to give a new stitch a try. If you have any questions or want to share your projects, drop a comment below!