Are you impressed with the incredible Tunisian Crochet? Then, step into the crafting world with a very easy stitch technique, the Tunisian Simple Stitch. Tunisian crochet brings together the best of knitting and regular crochet. The hybrid craft is impressive and leaves non-yarn crafters guessing whether it's knitting or crochet. One of the fundamental stitch techniques, the Tunisian Simple Stitch, is a great starting point for learning the unique crochet craft. Creating a dense and stretchy fabric that's great for various projects, you can get started with any Tunisian crochet hook in your possession. In this blog, let's walk you through the beginner-friendly stitch pattern. If you are new to explore the craft, a quick glance at our guide on Tunisian vs. regular crochet is a good starting point.
The Tunisian Simple Stitch
The Tunisian Simple Stitch is a versatile Tunisian crochet stitch pattern, one of the easiest and prettiest of the unique craft. Don't you believe it? Well, it's the simplest form of Tunisian crochet, yet it creates a beautiful textured pattern that works for scarves, garments, home decor, and any project you want to crochet. While Tunisian crochet stitches have the reputation of looking like knitting, this stitch pattern is unique.
Abbreviated as TSS, the stitch pattern lays the foundation of many Tunisian crochet projects. Unlike what you're used to with regular crochet stitch patterns, Tunisian crochet works in two rows - a forward pass and a return pass. The technique is similar to knitting, where you make rows by knitting off stitches from one needle to another. You start with a chain like regular crochet. In the forward pass, you pick stitches on the hook. In the return pass, you work the stitches off the hook. So, in Tunisian crochet patterns for each row, you will see separate instructions for the forward and return passes. You finish with a bind-off similar to regular crochet, but the technique varies.
What Do You Need for the Tunisian Simple Stitch?
Before getting started with the Tunisian Simple Stitch, gather your supplies.
Crochet Hooks - You'll need a Tunisian crochet hook to work the Tunisian simple stitch. Though they follow the exact standard sizes like regular traditional crochet hooks, they are different in their lengths. For the extra lengths, they are either longer or have the option of attaching an interchangeable cable that allows greater freedom in choosing different lengths. Using a bigger hook size than you would normally do for the given yarn is recommended. It is an intentional measure to balance the natural curl of Tunisian crochet fabric.
Yarn: Tunisian crochet works like knitting and regular crochet, so you can pair the Tunisian Simple Stitch (TSS) with any weight yarn from lightweight to super bulky. Just make sure to work with the right hook size.
Accessories: Tunisian crochet works similarly to knitting and crochet, so you may explore stitch markers, wool/ darning needles, scissors, and row counter for smooth crafting sessions
Steps to Crochet Tunisian Simple Stitch
Chain - Start with a regular chain. For practice, work around 20-30 stitches plus 1 turning chain.
Row 1—Forward Pass: Insert your Tunisian crochet hook in the second chain. Yarn over and pull up a loop on the hook. Repeat with every chain till the end of the row.
Row 1 - Return Pass: Yarn over and pull through the first loop. Rep until only one loop remains on your hook.
Row 2 - Forward Pass: Insert your hook under the two vertical bars of the stitch (the front loop and the back loop) from the row below, yarn over, and pull up a loop. Rep to end of row.
Row 2 - Return Pass: YO and pull through the first loop. *YO and pull through two loops. Rep from * until only one loop remains on hk.
Repeat: Rep row 2 forward pass and return pass until your project measures the length you want, ending on a row 2 return pass.
Bind Off - Insert the crochet hook in 2nd bar from hook. YO and pull up a loop. Pull the same loop through the loop on hk. Pull the same loop through the loop on hk. Rep f to end of row. Fasten off.
If you need to work Tunisian Simple Stitch for a project such as a hat or garment avoiding seaming, here’s a quick guide on how do you crochet in the round with a Tunisian crochet hook.
Tunisian Simple Stitch Increases
Once you master Tunisian Simple Stitches, you can work out increases in the stitch technique and work on projects such as clothing, accessories and other designs. All you need to do is work one TSS twice. If you are not following a pattern, include one increase in the foundation row. You do not have to do anything else but work the extra stitch in the return pass.
Tunisian Simple Stitch Decreases
Similar to Tunisian Simple Stitch increases, decreases also work only in the foundation row. You combine two stitches into one in the foundation row, and in the reverse row, you only have one stitch to work out the decrease.
Tunisian Simple Stitch Project Ideas
The Tunisian simple stitch creates a dense abric that's perfect for a variety of projects. The strcthiness and curling nature works beautifully for making scarves and blankets, but you can work it for projects such as bags, pillows, and clothing.
Ready to get started? Our guide on choosing Tunisian crochet hook for beginners will assist you with your decision. Make sure to practice before working on projects.
