1. What makes it different?
In ordinary crochet, only one loop usually remains on the hook. In Tunisian crochet, the loops are kept on the long hook during the forward pass. They are worked off during the return pass. The work is usually not turned, so the front remains facing you.
2. Choose comfortable materials
For a first swatch, double-knitting yarn and a 6 mm Tunisian crochet hook work well. A hook slightly larger than the yarn label’s ordinary recommendation helps prevent a tight fabric. Use light-coloured yarn, good lighting and rest your hands regularly.
3. Make the foundation row
Crochet 20 chain stitches. Insert the hook into the second chain from the hook, yarn over and pull up a loop. Leave the loop on the hook and repeat to the end. For the return pass, yarn over and pull through one loop; then yarn over and pull through two loops repeatedly until one loop remains.
4. Work the simple stitch
Insert the hook from right to left behind the next vertical bar, yarn over and pull up a new loop. Keep every loop on the hook until the forward pass is complete, then work the same return pass. Count the loops before returning; this helps prevent a sloping edge.
5. Finish it neatly
Tunisian fabric can curl at the lower edge. Work more loosely, use a larger hook and dampen the finished swatch before drying it flat. Cotton is suitable for a washcloth or pot holder; do not place acrylic against a very hot pot.
Try it today
Make a 20-stitch, six-row practice swatch with yarn already in your basket. Keep it as a reference sample, or make another for a VLU display, church bazaar or charity blanket. Small, faithful stitches soon become something useful.
