Tunisian crochet, with its unique blend of knitting and traditional crochet, offers so many possibilities for creating beautiful and functional items. In this roundup, I’m sharing free Tunisian crochet patterns beginning with easier designs that gradually move on to more challenging projects.
Jera’s Jamboree receives payments for affiliate advertising. This is at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. As a Cratejoy affiliate I earn if you click on a link and shop from my link. Please see my disclosure policy for more information.
If you’re completely new to this technique, I recommend begining with the simpler projects like the dishcloths or potholders. These projects will help you build confidence.
For the first few Tunisian crochet patterns, you’ll only need your standard crochet hook. You’ll find out if you want to continue to explore this technique before spending any of your crafting budget on Tunisian hooks or tools!
If you’re already familiar with Tunisian crochet and looking for something a little more complex, you can jump right into creating the blanket, cardigan or sweater.
What is Tunisian Crochet?
Tunisian crochet, also known as Afghan crochet or Tricot crochet, is a unique and versatile technique that combines elements of both crochet and knitting. It has a distinct look and texture that creates beautiful and intricate designs.
- For larger projects you’ll need a hook that is longer than a regular crochet hook, called an Afghan hook.
- The stitches are worked in a forward and return pass, creating a fabric that resembles a combination of knitting and crochet. The forward pass builds up loops on the hook, and the return pass works them off, resulting in a unique textured appearance.
Basic Tunisian Crochet Stitches
There are several stitches used in Tunisian crochet. Working with the basic stitches will give you with a solid foundation for more complex patterns. Here are a few stitches to get you started:
- Tunisian Simple Stitch (TSS): This is the most basic stitch in Tunisian crochet, creating a neat and dense fabric.
- Tunisian Knit Stitch (TKS): Resembling the knit stitch in knitting, TKS produces a smooth and textured surface.
- Tunisian Purl Stitch (TPS): Similar to the purl stitch in knitting, TPS creates a bumpy texture on the fabric.
Lacy Tunisian Stitches
Tunisian crochet stitches are well known for being used to create a denser and thicker fabric, but there are lacy stitches.
Lacy stitches can be used to make lightweight patterns for summer garments and accessories. Check out the Tunisian Pyramid Lace Stitch and the Tunisian Lacy Shells Stitch.
Resources for Learning Tunisian Crochet
If you want to continue with your adventure, Crochet Kim offers a free online resource for stitches and tutorials.
If you prefer a paperback or to be able to read digitally on your device, the Tunisian Crochet: Basic & Textured Stitches: Volume 1 has balanced reviews.
I can highly recommended The Tunisian Crochet Handbook: A Beginner’s Guide by Toni Lipsey This book is a step-by-step guide starting with tools and yarns, then moving onto how-to’s and stitches, and finishing with 20 easy patterns for Tunisian crochet.
Yarnspirations have a really good free online beginner Tunisian Crochet guide.
Tunisian Crochet Stitches and Projects
The projects in this roundup include:
- Potholder
- Dishcloth
- Coaster
- Headband
- Hat
- Cowl
- Pocket Scarf
- Scarf
- Shawl
- Tote bag
- Cushion/Pillow Cover
- Blanket
- Baby Blanket
- Cardigan
- Sweater
Anything that can be crocheted can also be made with Tunisian crochet!
Tunisian Stitches used in these free beginner patterns:
- Tunisian Simple Stitch
- Tunisian Simple Stitch Back Loop Only
- Tunisian Treble Crochet (US Double)
- Tunisian Front Post Treble (US Double)
- Tunisian Knit Stitch
- Tunisian Twisted Knit Stitch
- Tunisian Reverse Stitch
- Tunisian Lattice Stitch
- Tunisian Honeycomb Stitch
Supplies used in the Tunisian crochet patterns
- Regular hook: 4mm, 4.5mm, 5mm, 6mm, 6.5mm, 8mm, 12mm
- Tunisian hook: 5mm, 6mm, 6.5mm, 7mm, 8mm, 8mm double ended, 11.5mm, 12mm (I use and recommend the KnitPro Symfonie crochet hook Tunisian set)
- Stitch markers
- Tape measure
- Scissors
- Tapestry needle
- Pom pom maker (download a free template)
- Faux fur pom pom
- 18” Pillow Insert
- 8 Buttons (0.5cm diameter)
Happy Crocheting!
Tunisian Crochet Patterns
Clicking on the numbered pattern will take you to the free pattern.
For each pattern below I’ve given a summary, yarn, and if relevant the finished size.
Enjoy!
1.Tunisian Crochet Cottage Potholder
This Tunisian crochet pattern will also show you how to use the entrelac technique of join as you go.
A valuable technique to add to your crochet skills! Just take a look at the effect on this colourful baby blanket.
The potholder is crocheted in two steps.
First, one strip is crocheted. Then, a second strip is attached directly to the first one using the basic principle of Tunisian entrelac to join as you go.
Finally, you’ll crochet a simple border with a loop to hang the potholder.
You don’t need a Tunisian hook for this project. Your regular hook is all you need.
- Yarn weight: DK
- Yarn recommendation: Cotton
- Finished size: 6.3″ by 6.3″ (16 by 16 cm)
2. Tunisian Simple Stitch Dishcloths
The Tunisian Simple Stitch forms a waffle effect that is the perfect texture for a dishcloth or washcloth.
I’ve used this stitch for the pockets on my Tunisian pocket shawl – the minimal stretch is perfect for constant use (where hands will be in and out all the time!).
Watch the video tutorial to see how easy this stitch is.
Adapt the pattern by adding stitches and you’ll have a hand towel too.
(I think a washcloth and hand towel would make a lovely handmade gift!)
Using this Tunisian crochet pattern, you’ll have dishcloths or washcloths in no time.
- Yarn Weight: Aran/Worsted (56g one ball per dishcloth)
- Recommended Yarn: Lily Sugar n Cream
- Finished size: 8” x 8”
3. Tunisian Crochet Coaster Pattern
You’ll learn how to work Tunisian Simple Stitch in the round with this Tunisian crochet pattern.
Using the video tutorial alongside the written pattern will guide you step-by-step towards success.
- Yarn Weight: Sport
- Recommended Yarn: Cotton
Use yarn from your stash and your regular 4.5mm crochet hook for this easy coaster pattern.
This pattern is also available to purchase on Etsy.
4. Tunisian Crochet Twisted Headband
This is a great pattern for beginners with step-by-step instructions and a full video tutorial.
Crocheted using the Tunisian Knit Stitch (which gives the twisted headband a lovely knit-like look).
It is a stretchy stitch so if it feels too small, run your hands around the band and give it a little stretch so all the stitches fall into place.
- Yarn Weight: Aran/Worsted
- Finished size: Toddler- 18″-19″ circumference / Child 20″-21″ circumference / Adult 22″-21″ circumference
Once you’ve learned this stitch, you’ll be able to make a variety of knit-like accessories and garments.
Prefer to work from a PDF? This pattern is available to buy on Etsy.
5. Tunisian Crochet Pocket Shawl and Beanie Hat (Peony)
The Tunisian lattice stitch is a textured Afghan stitch with a geometric, diagonal pattern.
It’s a simple 2-row repeat pattern using the Tunisian simple stitch and the Tunisian cross stitch.
Soft and warm, this stitch is perfect for scarves, hats and winter shawls.
If you’re just starting out with Tunisian crochet, this is the perfect beginner project.
- Yarn weight: DK (300g for the pocket scarf and 100g for the hat)
- Recommended yarn: Papatya Batik (554-28)
- Finished size: Pocket Shawl : 15” / 38cm (W) X 66” / 168cm (L)
- Beanie Hat: head circumference – Teen 21” / 54cm Medium Woman 22” / 56cm
6. Tunisian Crochet Hat Pattern
If you’re looking for an easy project to make as a gift, this hat is perfect.
The colour-changing yarn used is so effective (it makes the Tunisian crochet pattern look much harder than it is!).
As well as the written pattern for this unique beanie, make use of the free video tutorial to guide you.
- Yarn Weight: Worsted/Aran
- Recommended Yarn: Lion Brand Heartland / Lion Brand Landscapes
7. Shine Like a Diamond Cowl
This cowl uses the Tunisian Reverse Stitch and Tunisian Knit Stitch.
The forward pass is made with one colour and the return pass with another to create the beautiful diamond effect.
It’s an easy pattern that’s worked in the round.
- Yarn Weight: Aran/Worsted
- Recommended Yarn: Lion Brand Heartland
Prefer to work from a PDF? This pattern is also available on Etsy.
8. Tunisian Rib Scarf
The Tunisian rib scarf is a great project to learn the basic stitches Tunisian Simple Stitch and Tunisian Twisted Stitch.
As well as the written pattern there is a video tutorial for you to follow.
- Finished size: 6.5 in X 72 in long (excluding fringe)
- Yarn weight: super chunky
- Recommended yarn: Patons Norse (discontinued). Find a list of substitutes on YarnSub.
9. Tunisian Crochet Shawl Pattern
If you’re on a crafting budget, this crochet shawl is a one skein pattern.
Using the Tunisian crochet double (UK treble) stitch, an increase of 2 stitches is made each forward pass row which gives the gorgeous shaping.
It’s a great introduction to Tunisian crochet!
- Yarn weight: Worsted/Aran (200g)
- Recommended yarn: Caron Cakes
- Measurements: 127 cm / 50 inches measured along the outer edge / 101 cm / 40 inches measured along the final row.
10. Harper Bucket Bag
This bucket bag is inspired by raffia but with a difference … the yarn used is Lion Brand Rewind! This is a tape yarn that is soft, durable and easy to care for, unlike Raffia (which isn’t washable and cleaned by using warm water to sponge down).
The base of the bag and the top are crocheted using traditional crochet while the body of the bag is worked in Tunisian full stitch. Blending these techniques will add to your crochet skills.
- Recommended yarn: Lion Brand Rewind
- Measurements: Base is 6.5″ in diameter; 9″ tall
11. Tunisian Crochet Pillow Cover
This reversible pillow uses Tunisian Simple Stitch on one panel and the Tunisian Straw Stitch on the other.
Traditional crochet stitches are used to join the two panels together with the right-side facing outwards.
Don’t worry about the seam showing, it’s is hidden by crocheting a crab stitch border in the join seam.
This gives a lovely finish to the cushion cover.
For pillow inserts that keep their plumpness over time and are washable, try these reasonably priced 18” set of four.
- Yarn weight: super bulky
- Recommended yarn: Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick and Quick
- Finished size: 19” x 19”
12. Striped Tunisian Crochet Blanket
This is a great beginner project for anyone wanting to try Tunisian crochet for the first time.
As well as the written pattern, use the video tutorials which will teach you:
- the Tunisian Simple Stitch
- how to change colours in Tunisian crochet
The yarn combined with the Tunisian Simple Stitch gives this blanket a lovely texture and drape. Perfect for snuggling up under on chilly days.
- Yarn weight: super bulky (650g)
- Recommended yarn: Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick and Quick
- Finished size: 40in wide x 58in long
If you prefer to work from a PDF, you can buy this pattern on Etsy.
13. Marshmallow Twist Baby Blanket
This is a fun stitch pattern in Tunisian crochet that looks gorgeous in stripes.
Watch the video tutorial for how to work the Twisted Tunisian Stitch and you’ll see just how easy it is!
You can choose to work in different colours but if you don’t feel ready to colour change, this baby blanket also looks fab in a solid colour.
- Yarn Weight: Aran/Worsted (6 skeins)
- Recommended yarn: Red Heart Super Saver
- Finished size: 33 x 35″
You can also grab this pattern as a PDF on Etsy.
You’ll find six more stunning baby blankets in this collection of Tunisian crochet blanket patterns.
14. Tunisian Cardigan Crochet Pattern
This Tunisian Raglan cardigan/blouse is worked in Tunisian simple stitch with traditional single crochet (UK double crochet) used for the edging.
You will be increasing in Tunisian Crochet and working in rounds.
The cardigan is worked from the top down in a Raglan style. Once you’ve learned this technique, you’ll have confidence to be able to work it on other garments such as sweaters, summer tops and capes.
Easily customised, you can make it as long or short as you wish by working more or fewer rows on the body (the same with sleeves).
- Recommended yarn weight: DK (400 – 700g)
- Recommended yarn: Cosy Fine by Durable Yarn – if you can’t source, check yarnsub for a list of recommended substitutes
- Sizes S to 5XL
As well as the free Tunisian pattern, you can also purchase a PDF on Etsy.
15. Sedona Sweater Tunisian Crochet Pattern
Do you have DK yarn in your stash leftover from finished projects? I can see you nodding 🙂
The Sedona sweater is the perfect project to use up those DK odds and ends from your stash!
You’ll use Tunisian Simple Stitch to crochet two panels for the body and once the shoulders are seamed, pick up stitches to work the sleeves.
A corded hook is used for the body and sleeves of the sweater. The ribbing at the hem, cuffs and neckline are made with a standard crochet hook.
Recommended yarn: Swish DK / DK from your stash (1450 – 2095 yards)
Use the video tutorials to help you learn the Tunisian Simple Stitch and how to change colours in Tunisian crochet.
Sizes available: S – 3XL
Tunisian crochet is an exciting craft that combines the best of crochet and knitting techniques. With its distinctive texture and limitless design possibilities, Tunisian crochet offers a whole new world of creativity for beginners and experienced crocheters alike.
By starting with the basic stitches and gradually exploring more complex patterns, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of Tunisian crochet and creating beautiful, one-of-a-kind projects.
Enjoy the journey and have fun experimenting with this captivating technique!
Tunisian Crochet Answers and Questions
If you have questions, you might find the answer in this section.
If there’s something you want to know that isn’t here, please let me know and I’ll try to find the answer to share with you.
What is the difference between crochet and Tunisian crochet?
With crochet you have one loop on your hook and the work is turned at the end of each row. Crochet is worked over one row and a starting chain is used at the start of a row.
Tunisian crochet is worked over two rows without a starting chain and without turning. In the first pass, loops are drawn up and stay on the hook. In the return pass, loops are pulled through leaving one loop on the hook at the end of the pass.
What is the advantage of Tunisian crochet?
The advantage is the variety of stitches. You can achieve knit-like stitches with one hook, extending the design of different crochet projects (without using two knitting needles).
Another advantage is that the forward and return pass weave a lovely fabric. You can’t achieve this texture with regular crochet.
What size hook should I use for Tunisian crochet?
Hook size is usually dependent on the size of the fibre you’re working with but with Tunisian crochet, you will need to go two sizes bigger because this technique creates a tighter tension and weave.
If you’re following a Tunisian pattern, use the hook size the designer has recommended and crochet a swatch as normal. Your swatch will tell you if you need to go up a hook size, or use a smaller hook.
If you’re designing your own pattern, go two sizes bigger than recommended for the yarn. For example, DK use a 6mm Tunisian hook, Aran/Worsted use 7mm, chunky yarn use 8mm. Crochet your swatch and adjust as needed.
Can I use a regular crochet hook for Tunisian crochet?
You can use a regular crochet hook for smaller Tunisian crochet projects.
Does Tunisian crochet take longer?
In my experience, the Tunisian Crochet Simple Stitch can be crocheted at the same speed as regular crochet.
The Tunisian Lattice Stitch took me longer because of working twice in the same loop. However, this would compare to crocheting the shell stitch.
It does depend on the stitch itself, how easy or more intricate it is.
Can you work Tunisian crochet in the round?
You can work Tunisian crochet in the round. An example can be found in the coaster pattern and the cowl pattern in this collection.
In most patterns that work in the round, you will need a double ended crochet hook.
What is the best yarn for Tunisian crochet?
The best yarn to use is an acrylic blend. This gives durability with a fabulous drape.
The fibres used in this collection:
- Cotton
- Acrylic
- Acrylic/Wool/Nylon blend
- Acrylic/Wool blend
- Acrylic/Cotton blend
- Superwash Merino Wool
- Raffia
The yarn weight used for the patterns in this collection include:
- Sport
- DK
- Aran/Worsted
- Super chunky
Does Tunisian crochet use more yarn than regular crochet?
Tunisian Crochet uses more yarn than regular crochet because a forward and return pass (2 rows) are worked to gain the same height of stitch for one row in regular crochet.
How much yarn do I need for a Tunisian crochet blanket?
For a blanket that measures 33” x 35” using Aran/Worsted yarn you will need approximately 1180g.
For a blanket that measures 40” x 58” using Super Bulky yarn you will need approximately 650g.
Can you make clothes with Tunisian crochet?
Absolutely! You can make clothes with Tunisian crochet.
In this collection of free patterns for beginners you’ll find a cardigan and a sweater.
How do you keep Tunisian crochet from curling?
Adding a border or edging to your project will stop your Tunisian crochet from curling.
Blocking once your project is finished will also sort out the curling.
What is blocking in Tunisian crochet?
Tunisian Crochet has a tendency to curl and blocking will sort out the curl once your project is finished.
To block your Tunisian crochet project:
- soak in cool water with a small dab of washing powder for 10 – 15 minutes
- gently remove excess water (DO NOT wring the fabric)
- lay flat between two towels and press out remaining excess water
- pin flat in place on a blocking mat to the finished measurements
- remove once completely dry
Lots of crochet projects benefit from blocking, for example an openwork, lacy shawl. Once blocked, the pattern will open out.
Blocking also helps with final measurements of projects.