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Tunisian crochet is a beautiful blend of crochet and knitting. You simply won’t believe how easy it is, and that you can even try it instantly with just your regular crochet hook. Whether you’re a beginner just picking up your first Tunisian hook or an advanced crocheter looking to expand your stitch library, this list of 25 Tunisian crochet stitches will definitely inspire your next project.
Tunisian crochet (also known as “Afghan crochet”) is a crochet technique that creates textured, woven-like fabric. These techniques combine the simplicity of crochet with the knit-like look of Tunisian stitches. They are worked in two ways – there and back. First, you pick up loops throughout the row, which is called a forward pass. Next, you crochet in the opposite direction, working all loops off the hook, which is called a return pass.
Tunisian Simple Stitch Tutorial (TSS)
The most popular, basic Tunisian crochet stitch creates a dense, grid-like fabric.
How to do it: This easy Tunisian crochet stitch is made by inserting the hook under the front vertical bar of the stitch, yarning over, and pulling up a loop when working on a forward pass.
Its dense, warm texture can be used for winter wearables (eg. scarves), and the grid-look creates fantastic potholders or totes, bags. It’s also perfect to give softness to a modern, contemporary interior in the form of pillows, placemats, runners, or sofa covers.
Tunisian Purl Stitch (TPS)
Creates a knit-like purl bump on the fabric, similar to purl stitches in knitting.
How to do it: To crochet TPS, you bring the yarn to the front, put the hook under the front vertical bar from right to left, yarn over from front to back, pull up a loop, and then finish the return pass.
Tunisian Purl Stitch works well for textured patterns and stitch combinations (like basketweave, cables, or seed stitch). It also makes stretchy bands for edges, cuffs, and hems when alternated with Tunisian Knit Stitch.
Tunisian Knit Stitch (TKS)
Mimics the look of knitted stockinette.
How to do it: The Tunisian Knit Stitch (TKS) is made by inserting the hook through the center of the stitch between the front and back vertical bars, yarning over, pulling up a loop across the row, when working a forward pass.
You can use Tunisian Knit Stitch to make winter scarves, sweaters, and blankets. Its elasticity, combined with its dense texture, makes it exceptionally good for winter socks, neck warmers, etc.
Tunisian Full Stitch (TFS)
This is a staggered, easy stitch pattern with beautiful openness. The Tunisian Full Stitch (TFS) is a popular variation in Tunisian crochet that produces a beautiful pattern of staggered vertical bars that interlock.
How to do it: The Tunisian Full Stitch (TFS) is made by inserting the hook between the stitches (under the horizontal space between vertical bars), yarning over, pulling up a loop across the row, and then working a return pass.
As the Tunisian Full Stitch is sturdy and good for scrubbin, you will want to use it for dishcloths or washcloths. It’s also great for baby blankets and afghan, especially when warmth is the goal. It also does very well in scarves and cowls (nice cozy texture, not too airy), cushion covers or home décor (holds shape well), as well as bags and pouches (dense fabric makes them durable and very suitable for “containment”).
Tunisian Reverse Stitch (TRS)
Worked from back to front, giving a bumpy, pebbled texture.
How to do it: The Tunisian Reverse Stitch (TRS) is made by inserting the hook from right to left under the back vertical bar of the stitch, yarning over during the front pass.
Tthe Tunisian Reverse Stitch creates a purl-like, bumpy surface on the front, giving projects a cozy and textured look. When alternated with Tunisian Simple Stitch, it helps limit curling.
Great for projects such as scarves, blankets, dishcloths, and garments where a softer, less even texture is desired. Often used for contrasting stitch patterns, ribbing, or textured designs like basketweave.
Tunisian Crossed Stitch
Creates an “X” effect by crossing loops.
How to do it: Instead of inserting the hook straight into the next vertical bar (like in Tunisian Simple Stitch), you skip one stitch, work into the next, then go back and work into the skipped stitch.
The Tunisian Cross Stitch makes a dense and textured fabric which works especially well for winter scarves and cowls, blankets and throws, cushion covers and bags. Also, you can use it for borders or accents in other projects.
Tunisian Twisted Simple Stitch
Loops are twisted for a tighter texture.
How to do it: The Tunisian Twisted Simple Stitch (TTSS) is a variation of the Tunisian Simple Stitch where you insert the hook from left to right (instead of the usual right to left) under the front vertical bar, twist it slightly, yarn over, and pull up a loop before completing the return pass.
As Tunisian Twisted Simple Stitch creates a denser, tighter fabric, it’s often used to reduce gaps and see-through holes in Tunisian textures. Also works perfectly for warm winter garments.
Tunisian Smock Stitch
Gives a quilted, beautiful diamond or honeycomb-like pattern across the fabric.
How to do it: The Tunisian Smock Stitch is based on the Tunisian Simple Stitch, so you pull up loops in the normal way, but in certain places you insert the hook under two adjacent vertical bars together instead of just one.
Because of its rich, quilted texture and diagonal lines, the Tunisian Smock Stitch is a popular stitch for almost any type of crochet projects, from blankets and pillow covers thought bags and pouches to shawls and cowls. You can use it as an accent panel in a garment project as well.
Tiny Clusters Tunisian Crochet Stitch
The Tiny Clusters Stitch is a textured, decorative stitch that adds a little puffed detail to your fabric, almost like miniature bobbles or popcorns, but more subtle. It’s often used to add interest without making the fabric too bulky.
The small clusters look like little pearls/dots, evenly spaced in rows.
How to do it: To make that stitch, you will base it on the Tunisian Simple Stitch (TSS), but instead of working just one loop per vertical bar, you yarn over and pull through two or more times into the same stitch before moving on. It will create a small cluster on vertical bars.
As all textured stitches, Tiny Clusters Stitch is uses to make blankets (especially baby ones), warm scarves and cowls, pillows, and accent panels. Its bumpy texture is useful particularly in dishcloths and washcloths.
Tunisian Extended Simple Stitch (EXTSS)
This stitch is one of the simpler Tunisian stitch variations, and helps to make your texture taller and drapier. It is a modification of Tunisian Simple Stitch, but you can do it for any other Basic Tunisian Stitches as well.
How to do it: The stitch technique is similar to the Tunisian Simple Stitch (TSS), but you slightly modify the forward pass by adding a chain at the beginning of the row and after pulling up a loop.
As this stitch is more airy and open than the regular Tunisian stitch, you can use it for lighter summer projects and wraps.
You can also combine this stitch with other stitches to introduce more texture, reduce curl, and add more function. For example, In garments, EXTSS works beautifully in areas where you want more stretch and flexibility (like shoulders, bust, or hips), while the basic TSS can provide stability in sections that need firmness (like cuffs, waistbands, or hems).
Tunisian Mesh Stitch
The Tunisian Mesh Stitch is an open, airy stitch pattern in Tunisian crochet that creates a fabric with a lace-like look. This open and airy stitch will be great for summer projects like tops or lightweight shawls.
How to do it: The Tunisian Mesh Stitch is based on the Tunisian Simple Stitch, so you pull up loops in the normal way, but you skip some of the vertical bars.
Tunisian Honeycomb Stitch
This gives a beautiful quilted, diamond or honeycomb-like pattern across the fabric. Tunisian Honeycomb Stitch is on of the most favorite Tunisian crochet stitches for scarves and cowls, blankets, bags, pillows, and cardigans.
How to do it: It’s worked by alternating Tunisian Simple Stitch (TSS) and Tunisian Purl Stitch (TPS) across the row, and then shifting the sequence on the next row (so stitches stack in opposite pairs). This alternating method prevents the fabric from curling as much as plain TSS and produces a stretchy, balanced fabric.
Tunisian Half Double Crochet Stitch
The Tunisian crochet technique and traditional half double crochet are combined in the Tunisian Half Double Crochet (THDC).
How to do it: This method is unique since it involves putting your hook beneath two vertical bars rather than just one.
This produces a slightly textured fabric that drapes better and has less density, which makes it a popular option for light blankets, clothing, and scarves where softness and flexibility are sought.
Tunisian Wave Stitch
This is a gorgeous Tunisian crochet design that gives the fabric a flowing, wavy look is the Tunisian Wave Stitch.
How to accomplish it: To create the appearance, make a series of Tunisian stitches of varying heights—usually simple threads, extended stitches, and occasionally double or treble stitches—and work them in a rising-and-falling pattern that mimics the shape of waves.
The Tunisian Wave Stitch’s distinctive look makes it ideal for projects like scarves, blankets, shawls, or statement panels in garments where a rhythmic, wave-like texture adds visual interest.
Tunisian Puff Stitch
The Tunisian Puff Stitch is a textured Tunisian crochet stitch that gives the cloth a three-dimensional, ornamental look by producing elevated, spherical “puffs” across it. For products that benefit from texture, such as blankets, scarves, cushions, or caps, the stitch creates a soft, cushioned feel. The Tunisian Puff Stitch has both tactile appeal and visual intrigue because of its distinct structure, which makes it slightly thicker and more elastic than standard Tunisian stitches.
How to do it: Multiple yarn overs are made into the same stitch on the forward pass before pulling them all through on the return pass, forming a dense, raised cluster.
To produce eye-catching, complex fabric surfaces, its unique puff pattern can be arranged in rows, alternating columns, or even geometric patterns.
Tunisian Basketweave Stitch
This textured Tunisian crochet design that resembles a woven basket is called the Tunisian Basketweave Stitch. The combination of stitches: knit-like Tunisian Knit Stitches (TKS) and the bumpy, recessed Tunisian Purl Stitches (TPS) gives the fabric its distinctive checkerboard appearance.
How to do it: It’s created by combining blocks of Tunisian Knit Stitches (TKS) and Tunisian Purl Stitches (TPS) in an alternating sequence—usually 3 or 4 stitches wide and several rows tall—before switching the stitch type to form the next block.
The result is a thick, structured fabric with a strong texture and minimal curl, making it an excellent choice for blankets, scarves, cushion covers, and garments where you want both warmth and visual depth.
Tunisian Seed Stitch
The Tunisian Seed Stitch is a textured Tunisian crochet pattern that creates a fabric with a pebbly, woven look.
How to do it: The stitch is made by alternating Tunisian Simple Stitch (TSS) and Tunisian Purl Stitch (TPS) across the row, then shifting the order on the next row so that each simple stitch is worked above a purl stitch and vice versa. This alternating structure produces a dense yet flexible fabric with an evenly bumpy surface that resembles the knit seed stitch. Because of its balanced construction, it resists curling and lies flat, making it especially useful for scarves, blankets, dishcloths, and garment panels where both texture and stability are desired.
Tunisian Brick Stitch (Grid Stitch)
The Tunisian Brick Stitch is a textured pattern in Tunisian crochet that creates a fabric resembling a wall of staggered bricks.
How to do it: This stitch is achieved by alternating short blocks of Tunisian Simple Stitches (TSS) with Tunisian Purl Stitches (TPS) across the row, then offsetting the placement of these blocks on the following rows so the “bricks” stack in a staggered layout rather than in straight columns. The contrast between the flat, knit-like TSS and the recessed, textured TPS gives the stitch its distinct brick-like look.
The resulting fabric is excellent for blankets, purses, scarves, and home décor projects that call for a strong geometric texture since it is structured, eye-catching, and has little curl.
Tunisian Rib Stitch
A textured Tunisian crochet stitch called the Tunisian Rib Stitch produces a fabric with vertical ridges that mimic knitted ribbing.
How to accomplish it: Tunisian Knit Stitches (TKS) and Tunisian Purl Stitches (TPS) alternate in vertical columns to create the Tunisian Rib Stitch, which is frequently worked in a repetitive pattern across several rows. The fabric has flexibility and a noticeable ribbed pattern thanks to the elevated knit columns and recessed purl columns.
This stitch is especially useful for cuffs, edges, scarves, hats, and fitted garments, where the ribbing provides both visual texture and stretch, while still maintaining the warmth and density characteristic of Tunisian crochet fabrics.
Tunisian Moss Stitch
The Tunisian Moss Stitch creates a dense, slightly bumpy fabric that almost looks woven and has a pebbled, textured surface.
How to do it: It is worked by alternating Tunisian Simple Stitches (TSS) and Tunisian Purl Stitches (TPS). You’ll alternate them across the row, and then on the next row, you’ll do the opposite, placing a purl stitch on top of a simple stitch and vice versa. This makes the little bumps pop in a neat, staggered pattern.
One of the best things about this stitch is that it lies flat and won’t curl up on you—a common challenge in Tunisian crochet! It creates a sturdy yet flexible fabric that’s amazing for blankets, scarves, washcloths, and bags.
Tunisian Waffle Stitch
True to its name, the Tunisian Waffle Stitch produces fabric that looks delightfully like a waffle—thick, squishy, and wonderfully textured.
How to do it: You’ll create the waffle “pockets” by alternating sections of Tunisian Knit Stitches (TKS) and Tunisian Purl Stitches (TPS). By working a few rows of one pattern before switching, you make certain squares pop forward, giving it that classic 3D waffle grid.
It’s a top Tunisian stitch for a cozy, stretchy fabric that’s fantastic for blankets, scarves, or dishcloths—that “snuggle under it with hot cocoa” kind of texture.
Tunisian Bobble Stitch
Ready to add some fun, three-dimensional texture to your work? The Tunisian Bobble Stitch lets you create adorable little “bobbles” that pop right off the fabric.
How to do it: To create a bobble, you’ll basically work a bunch of stitches into the same spot on your forward pass. Then, on the return pass, you’ll pull your yarn through all those loops at once to cinch them together into a puffy bump. You can space them out however you like to create your pattern..
This is a fantastic stitch for adding a playful, tactile touch to blankets, pillows, hats, and scarves.
Tunisian Lace Stitch
Think Tunisian crochet is always thick and dense? Think again! The Tunisian Lace Stitch creates a beautifully open and airy fabric with a delicate, lacy look.
How it’s done: The trick here is to pair yarn overs (which create the little holes or “eyelets”) with decreases (which bring stitches together). By repeating this simple yarn over/decrease combination across the row, you get a light, breathable fabric that’s a world away from standard Tunisian stitches.
This stitch is a game-changer if you want a project with gorgeous drape, making it perfect for shawls, lightweight scarves, and market bags.
Tunisian Cable Stitch
Love the classic, timeless look of knitted cables? You can get the same gorgeous effect in Tunisian crochet! This stitch creates those beautiful, twisting rope-like patterns right on your fabric.
How to do it: You create the effect by crossing groups of Tunisian Simple Stitches—sometimes bringing them to the front, sometimes the back. Often, you’ll temporarily hold stitches aside, then crochet them out of order to “twist” them into cables.
It adds incredible texture and a touch of elegance to any project, giving it that classic, cozy sweater look. It’s perfect for scarves, blankets, headbands, and sweater panels.
Tunisian Feather and Fan Stitch
This is a stunning lace stitch that creates a gentle, wavy pattern resembling delicate feathers or soft ocean waves. It’s an elegant design adapted from a classic knitting pattern.
How it’s done: The stitch is a balance of yarn overs (to increase) and decreases (working several stitches together). That interplay forms the peaks and valleys, giving you a flowing, scalloped edge.
It’s perfect for projects where you want movement and drape, like flowy shawls, airy scarves, and lightweight blankets.
FAQ:
Can I use a Regular Crochet Hook (Traditional Hook) for Tunisian Crochet?
Yes and no. The answer is not as simple as the AI Assistant suggests 😉
Yes, you may start to learn how to crochet Tunisian stitches with a regular hook. To do that, your hook has to be straight, without a plastic perforated grip, so an ergonomic hook won’t work. A traditional crochet hook allows one to make a narrow swatch of a Tunisian stitch – you will be able to work comfortably with 10-15 stitches to make a Tunisian stitch sample.
However, to experience Tunisian crochet fully, you need a Tunisian/afghan hook. The essence of Tunisian technique and its difference from crochet and knitting techniques is based on its tools.
Guide to Tunisian Crochet Hooks – how to choose the right one
A Tunisian hook looks like a cross between a knitting needle and a crochet hook. It’s longer than a regular hook and finishes with a stopper at the end to prevent the stitches from falling off, just like the knitting needles. Multiple loops stay on the hook while knitting. A 10″ long Tunisian hooks allow you to make a 10” width crochet project (e.g., a potholder), so always pick a longer hook to buy if possible.
For wider items, you may use a Tunisian crochet hook with a cable.
A full set of Tunisian hooks costs around 10 bucks for a ‘regular’ long Tunisian hook set or Tunisian cord hooks.
The most expensive sets have better quality detachable hooks to one cord, and (unfortunately) there is no upper limit to their price. The same rules applied to the cord Tunisian hooks as the regular ones – the longer the cord, the wider the project you can make.
Are Tunisian Crochet Stitches hard to learn?
Tunisian Stitches are very straightforward and easy to learn. In my opinion, Tunisian basic stitches are even easier to learn than basic crochet stitches – there are no turning chains, and it’s harder to skip the stitch by accident. All stitches are ‘gathered’ on the hook at the same time, which straightens them up; it’s much easier to maintain the tension, which gives you even, straighter-looking projects.
Why Try Tunisian Crochet Stitches?
From simple scarves and blankets to advanced colorwork, Tunisian crochet stitches open up endless creative possibilities. Whether you love texture or want to combine knitting and crochet in one project, learning these stitches will add exciting variety to your crafting repertoire.
Comparing Tunisian Crochet Stitches vs Basic Crochet Stitches
If you’re new to this style, a good way to get a feel for it is to see how it stacks up against the regular crochet you might already know. Figuring out the key differences can help you decide which technique is best for your next idea. Full disclosure, some of this (like how hard it is) is totally subjective and just based on my own experience!
Here’s a comparison of their major differences:
| Feature | Tunisian Crochet Stitches | Basic Crochet Stitches |
| Appearance | Creates a dense, textured, knit-like fabric. Stitches like the Tunisian Knit Stitch mimic knit stockinette, with vertical bars and unique textures.The ends curl up, often needing blocking.The reverse side is different from the front side and looks like the back side of a knitted pattern. | Produces classic crochet patterns such as single, half-double, double, and treble crochet, characterized by distinct “V”-shaped and open stitches with more visible holes.Lays flat after finishing, though needs straightening.Both sides (front and reverse) look more or less similar. |
| Technique | Stitches are worked in two parts: a forward pass (picking up loops) and a return pass (working them off the hook). Multiple loops stay on the hook like while knitting. | Each stitch is completed individually before moving to the next, with only one active loop on the hook at a time. |
| Hook Required | Uses a long Afghan/Tunisian crochet hook (sometimes with a cable) to hold several live loops. | Uses a standard crochet hook, suitable for one live loop at a time. |
| Fabric Qualities | Makes a thicker, less stretchy and warmer fabric that tends to curl at the edges. Ideal for scarves, blankets, and items needing structure or warmth. | Yields a lighter, stretchier, drapier fabric. Good for garments, accessories, and intricate lace. |
| Popular Stitches | Simple Stitch, Knit Stitch, Purl Stitch, Reverse Stitch, Full Stitch. | Single Crochet, Half-Double, Double, Treble Crochet, Slip Stitch, Cluster and Shell Stitches. |
| Learning Curve | Requires learning how to pick up a loop and how to return a pass. | Requires learning how to make a stitch knowing the required number of turning chains. |
| Difficulty | For beginners, it is easier to maintain a proper tension and not to skip a stitch. Easier to crochet straight. More trying of a hand. | For beginners, it is more popular than Tunisian technique. Less trying of the hand. |
| Texture Possibilities | Offers unique, subtle textures and colorwork not achievable with basic crochet. | Allows for greater stitch variety, lace, and 3D texture (like bobble, popcorn, and shell stitches). |
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Summary
In a nutshell, Tunisian crochet is your go-to when you want a dense, textured, and almost woven fabric that looks a lot like knitting. Regular, traditional crochet, on the other hand, is perfect for creating everything from airy, lacy designs to classic granny squares. Ultimately, the best technique is the one that gets you excited about your project. There’s room for both in every crafter’s toolbox, and they’re both a ton of fun to master! Can’t wait to see your Tunisian Crochet projects! Happy Tunisian Crocheting!