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 the Moss Stitch is also available from Mode Bespoke.

The Tunisian Moss Stitch has a look somewhat similar to Tunisian Full Stitch, but it creates a more open, woven appearance with a lovely drape. It is also reversible, which makes it a great choice for projects where both sides may be visible.

This stitch pattern is worked in a 2-row repeat over an odd number of stitches using alternating Tunisian Knit Stitches (TKS) and yarn overs (YO).

You may also see this stitch referred to as a seed stitch on some sites, but on your tutorial page it is presented as Tunisian Moss Stitch.

Foundation Row

Begin with a foundation row.

  1. Chain any odd 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.

Tunisian Moss Stitch

This stitch pattern is worked in a 2-row repeat.

Row 1 Forward Pass

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

*Insert your hook in the next vertical bar as for TKS and pull up a loop, yarn over, skip the next vertical bar.* Repeat from * to * until the last 2 stitches remain.

Work TKS in the next stitch, then insert your hook under both vertical bars of the final edge stitch and pull up a loop.

Row 1 Return Pass

Work a basic return pass.

Row 2 Forward Pass

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

Yarn over, skip the next vertical bar, insert your hook in the following vertical bar as for TKS and pull up a loop.

The stitch you are working into here is created by the yarn over from the previous row. Its front leg sits diagonally from the next vertical bar.

Repeat this sequence across the row until the last 2 stitches remain.

Last 2 stitches: Yarn over, skip the next vertical bar, then insert your hook under both vertical bars of the final edge stitch and pull up a loop.

Row 2 Return Pass

Work a basic return pass.

Continue repeating Rows 1 and 2 to the desired length.

Bind Off Row

Bind off in TSS, 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:
Tunisian Moss Stitch has an airy, woven look with nice drape and a reversible finish. Pay close attention to the yarn-over placement so the pattern stays consistent from row to row.

I hope this tutorial helps you feel more comfortable with Tunisian Moss Stitch. It is a beautiful choice when you want an open texture, lovely drape, and a fabric that looks great on both sides.

Have a happy day!

TexasPurl