Tunisian Crochet Basic Stitch

Tunisian crochet is just one name for a technique that is also known as Tunisian knitting. Also called – Afghan crochet, Afghan Stitch, Tricot crochet, Scottish knitting, Irish crochet, Hook knitting and Shepherds knitting. Many consider it a cross between knitting and crochet although the finished work can look like it has been woven, depending on what stitch pattern is used.

It is worked on a Tunisian/Afghan hook which looks like a knitting needle with a hook instead of a point on the one end, and a stopper on the other. These hooks come in different sizes for use with different yarn weights.

Each row of Tunisian crochet is worked in 2 parts – a cast on row and a cast-off row. Unlike other forms of crochet, the work is never turned so you will always have the same side facing you.

This swatch is worked in basic Tunisian stitch, all cast on rows in ColourSpun Pure Merino and all cast off rows in Kid Mohair DK Brushed.

You will need

Yarn of your choice – I used Kid Mohair DK Brushed and ColourSpun Pure Merino Aran

Tunisian crochet hook – typically a bigger size than you would choose for knitting or crochet. I used a 10mm hook for this sample.

Instructions

Start with a crochet foundation chain. For this swatch 20 + 1 – 21 chain using Pure Merino Mohair

Row 1 - cast on

Insert hook into the second chain from the hook, *wrap the yarn (from back to front) over the hook and pull through leaving the new loop on the hook; insert the hook into the next chain* repeat from *to* to end

Row 1 - cast off

Wrap the yarn over the hook and pull through the first loop on the hook; * wrap the yarn over the hook and pull through the first 2 loops on the hook* repeat from *to* until there is only one loop left on the hook.

Row 2 - cast on

Insert the hook into the second vertical bar of the previous row, (keeping the hook on the front of your work) *wrap the yarn over the hook and pull the loop through leaving the new loop on the hook; insert the hook into the next vertical bar* repeat from *to* to end

Row 2 - cast off

Repeat row 2 for pattern.

Work 16 more rows then work a row of single crochet using Pure Merino Aran.

Darn in ends.

Make a few blocks and join them together for a lovely warm blanket.

Other Stitch Patterns

Because you chose Tunisian Crochet Basic Stitch, we have added links below to a few more Stitches you may like.

Suzette Stitch

Textured Blanket Stitch

Related Products

This Tunisian Crochet Basic Stitch swatch was made using Pure Merino Aran and Kid Mohair DK Brushed but would work equally well with any of our large range of Natural Yarns

Pure Merino Aran

Kid Mohair DK Brushed

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Tunisian crochet?
Tunisian crochet is a technique that sits between knitting and crochet, and is also known by several other names including Afghan crochet, Afghan stitch, tricot crochet, Scottish knitting, Irish crochet, hook knitting, and shepherds knitting. Depending on the stitch pattern used, the finished fabric can look woven, knitted, or crocheted.

What hook do I need for Tunisian crochet?
You need a Tunisian or Afghan crochet hook, which looks like a knitting needle with a hook at one end and a stopper at the other. These come in different sizes to suit different yarn weights. A 10mm hook was used for this sample.

What yarn works well for the Tunisian Crochet Basic Stitch?
Any yarn works well. For this sample, Pure Merino Aran was used for the cast on rows and Kid Mohair DK Brushed for the cast off rows, creating a beautiful two yarn fabric. Using two different yarns in this way is a lovely way to add texture and depth.

How is Tunisian crochet different from regular crochet?
Each row of Tunisian crochet is worked in two parts, a cast on row and a cast off row. Unlike regular crochet, the work is never turned, so the same side always faces you throughout.

Is the Tunisian Crochet Basic Stitch suitable for beginners?
Yes. The basic stitch is straightforward and repetitive once the foundation row is complete, making it a good starting point for anyone new to Tunisian crochet.

What can I make with the Tunisian Crochet Basic Stitch?
The basic stitch works beautifully for blankets and throws. Work individual blocks and join them together for a warm, textured blanket, or work a larger piece straight through for a simple, stunning throw.