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 Seed Stitch is also available from CrochetKim.

The Tunisian Seed Stitch is a combination stitch that creates a lot of texture without adding much weight to the fabric. It is worked in a 2-row repeat over an even number of stitches by alternating Tunisian Knit Stitch (TKS) and Tunisian Reverse Stitch (TRS). It also has very little curl.

Foundation Row

Begin with a foundation row.

  1. Chain any even 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 Seed 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, then insert your hook through the back vertical bar of the next stitch as for TRS and pull up a loop.* Repeat from * to * across the row to the last stitch.

Last stitch: 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.

*Insert your hook through the back vertical bar of the next stitch as for TRS and pull up a loop, then insert your hook in the next vertical bar as for TKS and pull up a loop.* Repeat from * to * across the row to the last stitch.

Last stitch: 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 Seed Stitch is a great option when you want plenty of texture without a heavy fabric. The alternating knit and reverse stitches help keep curl to a minimum.

I hope this tutorial helps you feel more comfortable with Tunisian Seed Stitch. It is a lovely stitch pattern when you want texture, balance, and a fabric with very little curl.

Have a happy day!

TexasPurl