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.
Video tutorials are also available from CrochetKim and HappyBerry Crochet.
The Tunisian Knit Stitch (TKS) creates a surface that closely resembles knitted stockinette because it forms distinct V-shaped stitches across the front of the fabric. Even though it looks like knitting on the front, Tunisian knit stitch produces a denser fabric because the return pass sits at the back of the work and adds extra structure. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
TKS is worked by inserting the hook from front to back between the front and back vertical bars of each stitch. This opens the stitch and creates the knit-like appearance that makes this technique so appealing. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Like Tunisian Simple Stitch, TKS can curl quite a bit. A larger hook, relaxed tension, and blocking can all help improve the finished fabric. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
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 Knit Stitch
TKS is worked between the vertical bars of each stitch.
Forward Pass
Skip the first vertical bar directly beneath the loop on your hook. Insert your hook from front to back between the front and back vertical bars of the next stitch.
Yarn over and pull up a loop. Leave the loop on your hook.
Continue pulling up loops in this manner across the row until you reach the last stitch.
Last stitch of the forward pass: Work the last stitch as you would for TSS by inserting your hook under both vertical bars of the edge stitch. This edge stitch should look like a V on the outer edge of the fabric. 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.
Bind Off Row
Begin the bind off just as you would begin any TKS row.
- Insert your hook as you would for Tunisian Knit Stitch.
- Yarn over and pull up a loop.
- Continue pulling that loop through the loop already on your hook to create a slip stitch.
- 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.
Tunisian Knit Stitch creates beautiful knit-like texture, but it often curls more than expected. Try a larger hook, keep your tension relaxed, and block your finished project for the best result.
I hope this tutorial helps you feel more comfortable with Tunisian Knit Stitch. It is a wonderful stitch for projects that benefit from a knit-like look while still enjoying the structure and rhythm of Tunisian crochet.
Have a happy day!
TexasPurl
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