Tunisian Crochet Basics

  • Tunisian crochet projects are usually made up of a foundation row, multiple forward and return pass rows, and, in most cases, a bind off row.
  • A hook 2–3 sizes larger than the yarn label recommends is often helpful.
  • Always swatch for proper tension, especially since hook style, yarn choice, and stitch pattern can all affect your results.

A video tutorial is also available from CrochetKim.

The Modified Tunisian Simple Stitch is a very useful variation of Tunisian Simple Stitch (TSS). Many crocheters enjoy the look of TSS but do not enjoy the amount of curl it can create. Modified TSS offers a nice alternative by creating a thinner, smoother fabric that often lies flatter.

This stitch is worked by inserting the hook as you would for TSS through the front vertical bar, then also inserting it under the top horizontal bar of the closing chain. Working through both bars changes the structure of the fabric and gives it a slightly more balanced feel.

It can take a little longer to work than standard TSS because the stitch placement is a bit more involved, but many crocheters find the improved fabric well worth the extra effort.

Why Try Modified Tunisian Simple Stitch?

Modified Tunisian Simple Stitch is a great choice when you want the familiar look of Tunisian Simple Stitch but prefer a fabric with less curl and a slightly lighter feel. Because the stitch is worked through both the front vertical bar and the top horizontal bar of the closing chain, the fabric tends to be thinner and more refined than standard TSS.

This stitch can be especially helpful in projects where strong curl would be distracting or difficult to manage. It is a nice option for scarves, shawls, blankets, dishcloths, and other projects where you want a smooth Tunisian texture without quite as much bulk.

How It Compares to Standard TSS

Compared to regular Tunisian Simple Stitch, this modified version usually creates:

  • less curl
  • a thinner fabric
  • a slightly smoother surface
  • a more balanced overall structure

Standard TSS is often faster to work, but Modified TSS can be a better choice when fabric behavior matters more than speed. Swatching both versions with the same yarn can be very helpful if you are deciding which one to use for a project.

Foundation Row

Begin this stitch, and nearly all Tunisian crochet projects, with a foundation row.

  1. Chain any number of stitches.
  2. Beginning in the second chain from the hook, pull up a loop in each chain across the row.
  3. Complete a basic return pass.

For more detailed instruction on the foundation row and return pass, see the Tunisian Simple Stitch (TSS) tutorial.

Working Modified Tunisian Simple Stitch

This stitch is worked by inserting the hook through both the front vertical bar and the top horizontal bar of the closing chain.

Forward Pass

Skip the vertical bar directly beneath the loop currently on your hook.

Insert your hook from right to left behind the next front vertical bar, then continue under the top horizontal bar of the closing chain for that same stitch.

Yarn over and pull up a loop through both bars. Leave the loop on your hook.

Repeat this process across the row until you reach the last stitch.

Last stitch of the forward pass: Insert your hook under both vertical bars of the final edge stitch, yarn over, and pull up a loop.

Return Pass

Work a basic return pass: yarn over and draw through one loop only, then yarn over and draw through two loops across the row until one loop remains on your hook.

Continue repeating the forward pass and return pass until your work reaches the desired length.

What to Watch For

If you are new to this stitch, the placement may feel a little awkward at first. It can take a few rows before the two bars become easy to spot. Working slowly in the beginning and checking each stitch before pulling up the loop can help a lot.

If you look closely at the fabric, you may notice that it appears a little flatter and more stable than standard TSS. That difference in structure is exactly what makes this variation so appealing.

While Modified TSS usually curls less than regular TSS, some curl may still occur depending on your yarn, hook size, and personal tension. Swatching is always the best way to see how the stitch will behave in your project.

Bind Off Row

Bind off in pattern, working the stitch placement as established.

  1. Insert your hook through the next front vertical bar and the top horizontal bar of the closing chain.
  2. Yarn over and pull up a loop.
  3. Pull that loop through the loop already on your hook to create a slip stitch.
  4. Repeat across the row to the last stitch.

Last stitch: Insert your hook under both vertical bars of the final edge stitch, complete the slip stitch, chain 1, cut the yarn, and pull through to fasten off.

Helpful Note:
It can take a few rows to get comfortable identifying both bars of the stitch. If the placement feels awkward at first, try working slowly and checking each stitch before pulling up the loop. Once the structure becomes familiar, the rhythm gets much easier.

I hope this tutorial helps you feel more comfortable with Modified Tunisian Simple Stitch. It is a very useful variation to know when you want a smoother fabric with less curl than traditional Tunisian Simple Stitch.

Have a happy day!

TexasPurl