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.

The Tunisian Block Stitch is worked over a multiple of 4 + 3 using Tunisian Simple Stitch (TSS) and Extended Front Post Double Crochet (EXFPDC) in a 3-row repeat. Color changes are made at the end of the return passes and carried up the side of the work.

This stitch pattern can have a slight curl at the beginning, so keep your tension loose and block the finished project if needed.

A video tutorial for Tunisian Block Stitch is also available from TL Yarn Crafts.

Special Stitch

EXFPDC (Extended Front Post Double Crochet): Yarn over, insert your hook under the front and back vertical bars of the stitch 3 rows below, pull up a loop, yarn over and pull through 1 loop, yarn over and pull through 2 loops. One loop remains on the hook. This stitch skips the vertical bar of the TSS on the current row.

Foundation Row

Begin with a basic foundation row.

  1. With Color A, chain any multiple of 4 + 3.
  2. Beginning in the second chain from the hook, pull up a loop in each chain across.
  3. Work a basic return pass.
  4. At the end of the return pass, drop Color A and change to Color B to complete the last stitch.

Tunisian Block Stitch

This stitch pattern is worked in a 3-row repeat.

Row 1

With Color B, work TSS in all stitches across the row.

Work a basic return pass. Do not change color.

Row 2

With Color B, work TSS in all stitches across the row.

Work a basic return pass until there are 2 loops left on the hook. Drop Color B and change to Color A to complete the last stitch.

Row 3

With Color A, skip the first vertical bar directly beneath the loop on the hook, then work TSS in the next 2 stitches.

*Work EXFPDC, then TSS in each of the next 3 stitches.* Repeat from * to * across the row.

Work a basic return pass until there are 2 loops left on the hook. Drop Color A and change to Color B to complete the last stitch.

Repeat Rows 1–3 to the desired length, ending on Row 3. Do not change color on the last row of the swatch.

Color Changes

This stitch pattern depends on the color changes to create the block effect. Since the unused color is carried up the side, try to keep the carried yarn relaxed but tidy so the edges stay neat.

If you prefer, a border can help cover the carried yarn along the edge once the project is complete.

Bind Off Row

Bind off in TSS with Color A, completing each stitch with a slip stitch.

  1. Insert your hook under the next stitch as for Tunisian Simple Stitch.
  2. Yarn over and pull up a loop.
  3. Pull that loop through the loop already on your hook.
  4. Repeat across the row, keeping the bind off neat and even.

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:
Keep your tension loose when working the front post stitch. If it is worked too tightly, the fabric can draw in and the block pattern will not show as clearly.
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I hope this tutorial helps you feel more comfortable with Tunisian Block Stitch. It is a striking stitch pattern when you want bold texture and defined color contrast.

Have a happy day!

TexasPurl