I’ve spent the last seven years pretty much obsessed with Tunisian crochet. Hundreds of tutorials, dozens of blog posts, and a best-selling book later, I still meet people who’ve never heard of it—let alone tried it. And I get it. Learning a new technique can feel intimidating. But here’s the truth: if you already know how to knit or crochet, you’re already halfway there. Tunisian crochet is one of the easiest skills to add to your repertoire. Let me show you why.
You Probably Already Have the Tools
The first thing you need to know? You don’t need any special equipment to get started. Dig through your craft kit—I bet you’ll find a regular crochet hook. No ergonomic grip, no fancy adornments. Just a plain old hook. The key is making sure the hook has the same diameter all the way down the shaft, because you’ll be holding multiple loops on it at once. That’s the first clue that this technique is different from standard crochet.
One Row, Two Passes
Here’s where things get interesting. In Tunisian crochet, one row actually takes two passes to complete. The first is the forward pass, where you collect loops onto your hook—it looks a lot like knitting, honestly. The second is the return pass, where you work those loops back off. Add row after row, and you build a lovely, thick fabric. And the best part? You never have to turn your work. Ever.
It Makes a Dense Fabric (But It Doesn’t Have To)
Because of how the stitches stack, Tunisian crochet naturally produces a dense, sturdy fabric. That makes it perfect for blankets, sweaters, and anything you want to feel substantial. But it also has a softer side. To get better drape, go up a hook size—one to two millimeters larger than what the yarn label suggests is a good starting point. Or try a lighter weight yarn. Play around. The fabric will thank you.
Over 400 Stitches to Explore
This is where Tunisian crochet really shines. I like to call it the oasis at the crossroads of knitting and traditional crochet. You can mimic knit stitches, recreate classic crochet stitches, or try things that are completely unique to this craft. Tunisian lace, cables, chevrons, borders—they’re all on the table. Color work and graphgans? Tunisian crochet handles them beautifully, with crisp lines and smooth transitions.
If you’re looking for a quick project to start with, something like a Crochet Dishcloth in a simple Tunisian stitch is a perfect way to practice the rhythm of forward and return passes without committing to a big piece.
Curling Is Normal. Here’s How to Handle It.
One of the first stitches you’ll learn is the Tunisian simple stitch, and it curls. Like, a lot. This happens because you’re constantly pulling loops up from the front of the work, creating tension that makes the edges roll toward you. Don’t panic. Blocking your finished project will fix most of it. You can also add a border, or work a few rows of purl stitch at the beginning and end to counteract the curl.
You Can Make Almost Anything
From flowy shawls and slouchy beanies to baby blankets, bed blankets, tanks, and sweaters—Tunisian crochet works for all of it. It looks amazing in any yarn weight and any color. You can freestyle your own design or choose from thousands of patterns online and in books. I especially love how it shows off hand-dyed yarn. Those subtle color shifts really pop in the dense fabric.
It’s Terribly Addictive
Fair warning: Tunisian crochet is hypnotic. The repetitive, rhythmic stitches lull you into that zen state we stitchers crave. Before you know it, half the day is gone and you’ve got a sea of beautiful fabric. But just like knitting or crocheting, take breaks. Repetitive stress injuries are real. Put a pillow on your lap to support your elbows, and consider using swivel cords to reduce strain on your hands.
If you’re working on a larger project like a baby blanket, a pattern like the Double Diamond Blanket in Bernat Softee Baby Solids is a great choice—it’s simple enough to let you find your rhythm, but interesting enough to keep you engaged.
You Don’t Need to Know How to Crochet (But It Helps)
You can absolutely learn Tunisian crochet without any prior experience. If you do already crochet, you’ve got a head start. Either way, practice your starting chain. Tension on the chain is critical—keep it loose and even for a clean foundation. If chaining gives you trouble, try a chainless foundation row. There are plenty of tutorials out there, and you can pick it up in just a couple of minutes.
Come Learn in Person
There’s nothing quite like having a knowledgeable instructor right there with you. That’s why I’m packing up my hooks and traveling the Midwest this spring to teach Tunisian crochet in person. Here’s where you’ll find me:
- March 9th – Miss Pearl, a Black-owned, woman-owned yarn shop in Chicago. A full weekend of teaching and socializing.
- April 7th – Woven Art Yarn Shop in East Lansing, Michigan. Beginner and intermediate workshops.
- April 19th – Virtual classes at the Spring Knitting Retreat hosted by Webs.
- April 27th – Local Yarn Store Day at Havu Any Wool in Berkeley, Michigan.
- May 18th – My first visit to Kansas! Teaching at Yarn Barn.
- May 23rd – Threadbender Yarn Shop in celebration of their 40th anniversary.
Seats are going fast, so grab yours soon. Links to all events are below.
Tunisian crochet is a genuine treat. It’s the perfect addition to your skill set—whether you’re a seasoned stitcher or just starting out. Experiment. Make mistakes. Have fun with it. I think you’ll be surprised at the beautiful things you can create.
If you’ve tried Tunisian crochet before, drop a comment and share your advice for beginners. If you haven’t, tell me why—and what questions you have. I can’t wait to read through them and answer your toughest ones.
Try Tunisian crochet. I think you’ll love it.