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 for Tunisian Half Double Stitch is also available from CrochetKim.
The Tunisian Half Double Stitch (THDS) is a useful stitch for adding extra texture and density to Tunisian crochet fabric. It is worked much like a traditional half double crochet stitch, but the stitch is not closed until the return pass.
This stitch can be used on its own, but it also works beautifully as a variation of other Tunisian stitches. The simple addition of a yarn over before making a simple stitch, knit stitch, reverse stitch, or related variation creates a fuller fabric with added texture.
One nice bonus of Tunisian Half Double Stitch is that it tends to have little to no curl, which makes it especially useful when you want a more balanced fabric.
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 Half Double Stitch
THDS is worked by making a yarn over before inserting the hook into the next stitch.
Forward Pass
Skip the first vertical bar directly beneath the loop on your hook and also skip the diagonal yarn over directly beside it.
Yarn over, then insert your hook under the next two bars (the vertical stitch and the diagonal yarn over), yarn over again, and pull up a loop.
Repeat this sequence across the row until you reach the last stitch.
Last stitch of the forward pass: Yarn over, then work a TSS in the final edge stitch by inserting your hook under both vertical bars. Yarn over and pull up a loop.
Return Pass
Yarn over and draw through one loop only.
Then yarn over and draw through three loops across the row until only one loop remains on your hook.
Continue repeating the forward pass and return pass until your work reaches the desired length.
Bind Off Row
Bind off in pattern, working the same placement as the stitch pattern and completing each stitch with a slip stitch.
- Yarn over.
- Insert your hook in the next stitch as for Tunisian Half Double Stitch.
- Yarn over and pull up a loop.
- Pull that loop through the loop or loops already on your hook to complete the bind off stitch.
- Repeat across the row in pattern.
Last stitch: Work the final edge stitch neatly, chain 1, cut the yarn, and pull through to fasten off.
Tunisian Half Double Stitch is a great utility stitch when you want a denser fabric with extra texture and less curl than many basic Tunisian stitches.
I hope this tutorial helps you feel more comfortable with Tunisian Half Double Stitch. It is a very handy stitch to know when you want extra body, texture, and a more stable fabric.
Have a happy day!
TexasPurl
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