- 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 for Tunisian Full Stitch is also available from TL Yarn Crafts.
The Tunisian Full Stitch (TFS) creates a thick fabric with a woven look that is quite distinct from other forms of crochet. When worked in a two-row repeat, this stitch pattern may also be called Mesh Stitch or Gobelin Stitch.
TFS does have a moderate to heavy curling tendency, but this can often be improved with lighter tension, a larger hook, and blocking.
Because TFS is worked into the spaces between stitches, it naturally develops a diagonal bias if each row is worked in exactly the same position. To keep the fabric balanced, the stitch is worked in an offset two-row repeat. If you do not offset the placement, the fabric can slant to one side and even gain a stitch per row, so be sure to check your stitch count often.
Foundation Row
Begin this stitch, and nearly all Tunisian crochet projects, with a foundation row.
- Chain any number of stitches.
- Beginning in the second chain from the hook, pull up a loop in each chain across the row.
- Complete a basic return pass.
For more detailed instruction on the foundation row and return pass, see the Tunisian Simple Stitch (TSS) tutorial.
Working Tunisian Full Stitch
TFS is worked into the spaces between stitches rather than through a vertical bar.
Row 1 Forward Pass
Skip the space directly below the loop on your hook. Insert your hook from front to back into the next space between stitches and pull up a loop.
Continue pulling up loops in each space across the row until you reach the space before the last stitch.
Last stitch of Row 1: Skip the last space and work a TSS in the final edge stitch by inserting your hook under both vertical bars, then yarn over and pull up a loop.
Row 1 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.
Row 2 Forward Pass
Skip the first space after the stitch directly below the loop on your hook. Insert your hook from front to back into the space between the second and third stitches and pull up a loop.
Continue pulling up loops in each space across the row until you reach the last stitch.
Last stitch of Row 2: Work a TSS in the final edge stitch by inserting your hook under both vertical bars, then yarn over and pull up a loop.
Row 2 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.
Repeat Rows 1 and 2 until your work reaches the desired length.
Bind Off Row
Begin the bind off with the next row in the row repeat.
- Insert your hook into the correct space for the next row of the pattern.
- Pull up a loop.
- Slip that loop through the loop already on your hook.
- Repeat across the row, keeping only one loop on your hook as you progress.
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.
Tunisian Full Stitch can slant if the stitch placement is not offset correctly. Pay close attention to Row 1 and Row 2 placement and count your stitches often.
I hope this tutorial helps you feel more comfortable with Tunisian Full Stitch. It is a beautiful stitch for projects that benefit from texture, body, and a woven appearance.
Have a happy day!
TexasPurl
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