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If you’re searching for a new crochet project, Tunisian crochet might be just what you’re looking for. This unique style of crochet is a bit different than traditional crochet, but it’s worth the extra effort to learn! And to help you get started, we’ve compiled a list of 27 free Tunisian crochet patterns for beginners. Plus, we’ll give you a few tips on choosing supplies and getting started. So grab your hooks, and let’s get started!
Intro to Tunisian Crochet
Tunisian crochet, sometimes called Afghan crochet, is a unique type of crochet that creates a beautiful and dense fabric. It combines some aspects of knitting with some elements of crochet – but it’s really its own distinct craft.
To do Tunisian crochet, you’ll use a long, straight hook called a Tunisian crochet hook. These hooks have a stopper at the end to keep your stitches from falling off, and they come in a variety of sizes, just like regular crochet hooks. Tunisian crochet hooks can also be double-ended or cabled.
What is the difference between crochet and Tunisian crochet?
The main difference between regular crochet and Tunisian crochet is how the stitches are made with the hook. With regular crochet, only one stitch is on the hook at a time. Tunisian crochet, on the other hand, is similar to knitting in that you have many stitches on your hook at once. The stitches are worked in two passes: the forward pass and the return pass.
What can you make with Tunisian crochet?
With Tunisian crochet, you can create nearly anything you can make with regular crocheting or knitting. However, the dense fabric of Tunisian crochet lends itself well to warm, thick items such as blankets, scarves, and dishcloths.
Tunisian Crochet Supplies
To do a Tunisian crochet project, you’ll need the following items:
- Tunisian hooks(sometimes called Afghan hooks)
- Yarn
- Notions(yarn needle, scissors, etc.)
Tunisian crochet hooks are different from regular hooks in that they are longer and usually have a stopper on the end. Some Tunisian hooks are double-ended, and some have a long flexible cable on the end.
For certain projects, especially those with shorter widths, you can use a regular crochet hook in place of a Tunisian hook. Choose a plain metal hook with a straight shaft – your stitches won’t glide over a big thumb grip or an ergonomic handle.
Thisinterchangeable Tunisian crochet hook set by Cloverincludes many different sizes and cables to prepare you for a variety of projects.
Be sure to check your pattern for the recommended yarn and hook size. Keep in mind that with Tunisian crochet, you’ll want to use a hook that is one or two sizes larger than your yarn suggests (your pattern should take this into account).
27 Tunisian Crochet Patterns
Enjoy these free Tunisian crochet patterns for your upcoming projects!
1
Mesa Hat
Photo Credit:http://tlycblog.com
Whether you’re experienced in Tunisian crochet or just getting started, this hat is an easy and fun pattern to use for practice and learning. The colors are created with color-changing yarn (which makes it easy!), and a video tutorial is included to walk you through the steps.
Yarn weight: Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand Landscapes
2
Lamia Wrap
Photo Credit:http://tlycblog.com
This luxurious, triangular shawl is an excellent pattern for becoming confident in the basics of Tunisian crochet. It’s made up of two main stitch patterns and includes a video tutorial.
Yarn weight: Worsted
Suggested yarn: Malabrigo Worsted
3
Brushland Tunisian Crochet Scarf
Photo Credit:makeanddocrew.com
This Tunisian crochet scarf pattern is cozy, stylish, and reversible! Though it looks professional, it’s actually a perfect pattern for beginners. In this triangular pattern, you’ll practice the Tunisian simple stitch, increasing, and alternating color rows.
Yarn weight: Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand LB Collection Chainette Yarn
4
The Pilson Blanket
Photo Credit:http://tlycblog.com
Looking for a baby gift that will be treasured for years to come? You’ve found it! This patchwork Tunisian crochet blanket pattern is made by crocheting strips that are later joined to form the full blanket. You can actually create this project with a traditional crochet hook instead of a Tunisian hook if you’d like.
Yarn weight: Worsted
Suggested yarn: Wool of the Andes Tweed
5
Tunisian Crochet Scarf
Photo Credit:www.purlsoho.com
Use the gobelin stitch to create this drapey and reversible Tunisian crochet scarf. Then, wrap up and stay warm in the fall and winter chill with this beautiful project!
Yarn weight: Worsted
Suggested yarn: Purl Soho Worsted Twist
6
Party Punch Shawl
Photo Credit:http://tlycblog.com
This light and airy mesh shawl is great for dressing up in warmer summer weather. When you’re finished crocheting, you’ll want to block your shawl in order to give it its perfect, relaxed shape (blocking instructions included).
Yarn weight: Fingering
Suggested yarn: Peach Melba Speckle
7
Polaris Pullover
Photo Credit:www.crochet.com
This classic, textured sweater is crocheted flat in pieces from the bottom up, then sewn together. It’s available in 8 different sizes.
Yarn weight: Sport
Suggested yarn: Galileo
8
Merci Cloths
Photo Credit:https://tlycblog.com
Sit back and relax while you stitch up these practical and simple washcloths. They work well for either kitchen or bathroom use and would be a wonderful housewarming gift or a thoughtful, token gift for anyone.
Yarn weight: Worsted
Suggested yarn: Dishie
9
The December Cardigan
Photo Credit:http://tlycblog.com
Whether dressing up for a holiday party or relaxing over dinner with friends, this cozy, Tunisian crochet sweater pattern is both versatile and lovely. With shaping and more advanced stitches included, this pattern is best for intermediates.
Yarn weight: Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand Wool-Ease
10
Classic Tunisian Pullover
Photo Credit:hookedhazel.com
This classic pullover sweater is worked in the round using the Tunisian knit stitch. You can make this sweater cropped (as shown) or add a few rows for longer length. This pattern is available in 9 different sizes and includes a chart to help you determine your perfect size.
Yarn weight: DK
Suggested yarn: City Tweed DK
11
Back in Brugge Slouchy Beanie
Photo Credit:hearthookhome.com
This slouchy beanie features a ribbed brim and a decorative pom-pom, too! It’s made with the Tunisian honeycomb stitch (video tutorial included).
Yarn weight: Worsted
Suggested yarn: Red Heart Chic Sheep
12
Tunisian Crochet Washcloths
Photo Credit:mypoppet.com.au
These bright and cheery washcloths add a retro feel to the kitchen. Featuring a linen stitch border, this project is quick and easy. Perfect for gift-giving or for your own kitchen!
Yarn weight: Worsted
Suggested yarn: Dishie
13
Tunisian Crochet Ear Warmer
Photo Credit:www.ravelry.com
Keep your ears toasty warm with this adorable ear warmer headband. This pattern can be made to fit any size from toddler to adult. It’s crocheted in one long piece and then sewn together to form the headband.
Yarn weight: Super Bulky
Suggested yarn: Hobby Lobby I Love This Chunky!
14
Brick Stitch Tunisian Crochet Cowl
Photo Credit:makeanddocrew.com
This beautiful and colorful cowl is actually just a simple joined rectangle made with color-changing yarn. It’s made with the brick stitch (or grid stitch) and measures about 25” x 14” when finished.
Yarn weight: Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand Ferris Wheel Yarn
15
Tessellated Sampler Cowl
Photo Credit:www.ravelry.com
This pattern is an excellent opportunity to practice the entrelac technique in a medium-sized project that won’t take too long to make. This cowl can be made using a Tunisian hook or a regular crochet hook.
Yarn weight: DK
Suggested yarn: The Farmer's Daughter Fibers Craggy Tweed
16
Tunisian Crochet Lattice Top
Photo Credit:creationsbycourtney.com
Layer this lattice top over tanks, dresses, or shirts for a fashionable look. It’s great for summer when you want to dress up a little but don’t want anything that’s too hot. This pattern is available in XS through 5XL.
Yarn weight: Worsted
Suggested yarn: Wander Acrylic Yarn
17
Hug You Shawl
Photo Credit:mijocrochet.se
Wear a hug all day with this fluffy and cozy shawl! This pattern is shaped like an asymmetrical triangle and is good for beginners. You can easily adjust the size to get your perfect fit.
Yarn weight: DK
Suggested yarn: Scheepjeswol Whirligig
18
Tunisian Dawn Sunglasses Case
Photo Credit:www.mooglyblog.com
Looking for something unique to make with Tunisian crochet? This soft sunglasses case uses the beautiful honeycomb stitch pattern and is a great summer project.
Yarn weight: Bulky
Suggested yarn: Patons Alpaca Blend
19
Elmore Ring Bag
Photo Credit:www.mooglyblog.com
This lacy ring bag is an excellent choice for carrying your essentials around in style. Keep your phone and keys in this lovely bag while you’re out and about, or add a liner for more privacy.
Yarn weight: DK
Suggested yarn: Bernat Softee Cotton
20
Tunisian Crochet Washcloths by Purl Soho
Photo Credit:www.ravelry.com
Tunisian crochet is perfect for making beautiful and absorbent washcloths. When finished, this project measures approximately 8” x 8”. Even beginners can make these lovely washcloths, and they make excellent gifts, too!
Yarn weight: DK
Suggested yarn: Cascade Ultra Pima
21
Crochet Scrubbies
Photo Credit:yarntowers.com
Here’s another Tunisian crochet pattern that’s great for gift-giving. These cotton scrubbies are ideal for removing makeup. Simply wet, scrub, and then throw them in the wash to use again! They’re quick to make, so you can create a stack of these in no time.
Yarn weight: DK
Suggested yarn: Paintbox Cotton DK
22
Tunisian Crochet Pumpkin
Photo Credit:www.1dogwoof.com
These cute little pumpkins are worked in rows and measure about 5” in diameter when finished. With this unique pattern, you can turn either side of the fabric to the outside to make two completely different-looking pumpkins with the same pattern!
Yarn weight: Worsted
Suggested yarn: Dishie
23
Tunisian Raglan Blouse
Photo Credit:by-katerina.com
This top-down blouse is a gorgeous project for those who have mastered the basics and are ready to move on to new techniques. In this pattern, you’ll practice increasing, color changing, and working in rounds.
Yarn weight: Worsted
Suggested yarn: Durable Cosy Fine
24
Parisian Tunisian Top
Photo Credit:www.sewrella.com
This pullover features a light and breezy spring sweater with ruffled sleeves. It features a video tutorial and is available in 7 different sizes.
Yarn weight: Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton
25
Twilight Top Pattern
Photo Credit:www.crochet.com
The lacy stitches used in this pattern create a light, drapey fabric that’s breezy enough for warm spring and summer days. It’s worked seamlessly from the top down and features a puff stitch for the gorgeous, textured yoke.
Yarn weight: Fingering
Suggested yarn: Lindy Chain
26
Wisdom Book Bag
Photo Credit:www.crochet.com
Carry your notebook or favorite novels in this classy and compact book bag. It measures approximately 12” x 10” but is easy to customize.
Yarn weight: Worsted
Suggested yarn: Dishie
27
Misty Morning Mosaic Cowl
Photo Credit:www.crochet.com
The geometric look featured in this cowl is made by using the Tunisian honeycomb stitch. This seamless cowl is warm yet not too bulky.
Yarn weight: Worsted
Suggested yarn: Chroma Worsted
Common Questions about Tunisian Crochet
Here are some frequently asked questions about getting started with Tunisian crochet.
Is Tunisian crochet easy to learn?
Tunisian crochet is a fairly simple technique to learn, similar to learning how to regular crochet (though the process is slightly different). Some of the best, easy Tunisian crochet patterns for beginners include washcloths, scarves, and simple shawls.
Can I use a regular crochet hook for Tunisian crochet?
You’ll notice that some of the free Tunisian crochet patterns you can download in the list below can be made using either a Tunisian hook or a regular crochet hook. Patterns that can be made with a regular hook are generally less wide, so that all of the stitches can fit on the hook. Wrapping a rubber band around the end of your hook will help keep stitches from falling off.
Trying out Tunisian crochet with a regular hook is a great way to see if you enjoy this type of crocheting without purchasing any extra products right away. As you start making different patterns, you’ll find it worthwhile to invest in a goodTunisian crochet hook setwith various hook sizes.
Is Tunisian crochet faster than regular crochet?
Whether Tunisian crochet or regular crochet is faster is debatable. Some crafters say that Tunisian crochet is faster, while others are certain that regular crochet is quicker. All in all, they are similar, and you will probably be faster at whichever technique you practice more. Tunisian crochet does use slightly more yarn than regular crochet, however.
What projects is Tunisian crochet best for?
The textured fabric created by Tunisian crochet is thick and durable. For this reason, it’s excellent for making projects such as washcloths, scarves, blankets, sweaters, and hats.
Explore More Free Crochet Patterns
Here are some other articles that you may be interested in if you like to crochet.
- 27 Free Crochet Patterns to Make with Bernat Blanket Yarn
- 25 Free Crochet Hat and Beanie Patterns
- 27 Free Crochet Baby Blanket Patterns
- 25 Crochet Headbands and Ear Warmer Patterns
- 25 Free Easy Crochet Scarf Patterns for Beginners
- 27 Crochet Doily Patterns (Beginner to Advanced)
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Sarah Stearns Founder and Editor
Sarah Stearns has helped millions of makers find their next craft project with free patterns and step-by-step tutorials on her blog, sarahmaker.com. Read more.
With over a decade of experience in knitting and crochet, she has been featured in prominent publications like The New York Times, Scientific American, Good Housekeeping, Vox, Apartment Therapy, and Lifehacker.
