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Get started (Tunisian)

Author: Crochetly · Last updated: May 16, 2026

Tunisian crochet, also known as Afghan crochet, combines elements of knitting and crochet to create a dense, textured fabric. You work with a special long hook called a Tunisian hook or Afghan hook.

What tools do I need for Tunisian crochet?

Section titled “What tools do I need for Tunisian crochet?”
  • Tunisian Crochet Hook: Longer than a regular hook to hold multiple loops
  • Yarn: Smooth, medium-weight yarn (worsted weight #4 is ideal)
  • Tapestry Needle: For weaving in ends
  • Stitch Markers: To mark places and keep track of rounds
  • Scissors

What Tunisian crochet terms should I know?

Section titled “What Tunisian crochet terms should I know?”
AbbreviationDescription
chChain stitch
tssTunisian Simple Stitch
retpReturn pass
fwpForward pass
yoYarn over
stStitch

How does Tunisian crochet work?

Section titled “How does Tunisian crochet work?”

Tunisian crochet uses two passes per row with no turning:

  • Forward Pass: Insert hook into stitches, yarn over, and pull up loops onto the hook (similar to knitting)
  • Return Pass: Yarn over and pull through loops on the hook to work off the stitches

You keep loops on the hook during the forward pass, creating a row before working them off on the return pass.

What are the common Tunisian crochet stitches?

Section titled “What are the common Tunisian crochet stitches?”

There are 4 common Tunisian crochet stitches:

  • Tunisian Simple Stitch (TSS): Basic stitch for most projects
  • Tunisian Knit Stitch (TKS): Creates a knitted look
  • Tunisian Purl Stitch (TPS): Adds texture on the fabric’s wrong side
  • Tunisian Double Crochet (TDC): Taller stitch for more drape

If you are new to Tunisian crochet, YouTube crochet tutorials provide clear, helpful guidance.

What tips help beginners succeed with Tunisian crochet?

Section titled “What tips help beginners succeed with Tunisian crochet?”
  • Keep even tension to avoid tight or loose stitches
  • Use a longer hook to comfortably hold all loops
  • Use a larger hook to reduce curl and avoid overly tight tension
  • Practice the Tunisian Simple Stitch TSS before advanced stitches
  • Watch video tutorials to see the technique in action

How do I make a Tunisian Simple Stitch swatch?

Section titled “How do I make a Tunisian Simple Stitch swatch?”
  1. Chain 15.
  2. Forward pass: Insert hook in 2nd ch from hook, yarn over, pull up loop across (14 loops on hook).
  3. Return pass: Yarn over, pull through one loop, then yarn over pull through two loops across.
  4. Repeat forward and return passes for 10 rows.