Tunisian crochet, sometimes called the "crossroads" of knitting and crochet, has an allure all its own. Surprisingly, this technique is more versatile than it looks, as most people associate it with flat projects like blankets and scarves. Tunisian crochet hooks, the correct equipment, and a little skill can help you turn yarn into a variety of circular wonders, such as fashionable headwear, useful bags, and adorable amigurumi dolls. This thorough guide will help you become an expert at this fascinating craft by providing step-by-step instructions and professional advice.

What You Will Require

Let's make sure you have all the required materials before we begin the technique:

  • Tunisian Hook for Crochet: An extended crochet hook with a stopper on one end, similar to a regular crochet hook, is required for Tunisian crocheting. Choose a Tunisian crochet hook size based on the weight of your yarn, as they come in different sizes.
  • Yarn: Choose your preferred yarn in your choice of color. Confirm that it fits the yarn weight recommended by the Tunisian crochet hook.
  • Stitch Marker: If you are working in a continuous spiral, a stitch marker will be convenient for recording your rounds.
  • Scissors: To cut the yarn, you'll need scissors.
  • Yarn Needle: Use a yarn needle to weave in the ends.

With everything at your disposal, let's proceed to the instructions for Tunisian crochet in the Round.

Step 1: Base Chain

Make a foundation chain first. The project and pattern you choose will determine how many chains you need.

Step 2: First Round

  • Hook into the second chain from the hook, and pull up a loop by yarn over. Keep your hook in this loop.
  • To leave them all on the hook, keep putting your hook into each chain across the foundation chain, yarn over, and pull up a loop.
  • You will have several loops on your hook after working through every chain.

Step 3: Return Pass

The return pass is essential in Tunisian crochet, whether working flat or in the Round.

  • First chain
  • Pull through two loops on the hook and yank over
  • Until there is just one loop left on your hook, repeat step 2 as necessary. It finishes the Tunisian simple stitch (Tss) in one row

Step 4: Second Round and Beyond

Work Tunisian simple stitches (Tss) for the second and all subsequent rounds. As follows:

  • Like in the flat Tunisian crochet, insert your hook under the front vertical bar of the subsequent stitch, yarn over, and pull up a loop.
  • In every stitch around the circle, repeat step 1.
  • Proceed with the return pass as outlined in step three.

Working in Continuous Spiral

There are two ways to join rounds: the continuous spiral and slip stitch methods. Now, let's talk about the continuous spiral approach.

  • To join rounds, do not slip stitch after finishing the return pass. Instead, work your Tss by inserting your hook into the first stitch of the new Round.
  • Work your rounds in a spiral pattern, using a stitch marker to indicate the beginning stitch of each round.

The continuous spiral method produces a seamless, spiraling fabric without a visible seam. It is perfect for projects that want a smooth, continuous surface, like hats and amigurumi.

Tips and Tricks

  • Count your stitches: To keep your project symmetrical and circular, maintain an even stitch count in each round.
  • Use stitch marker: Place a stitch marker in the first stitch of each round to keep track of your progress.
  • Color changes: If your project calls for color changes, make them on the last yarn-over of the stitch before the color change.
  • Play around with various stitches: Although this tutorial focuses on Tunisian simple stitch, you can experiment with other Tunisian crochet stitches to create different textures, such as Tunisian knit stitch (Tks) or Tunisian purl stitch (Tps).
  • Patience and practice are key: learning Tunisian crochet in the round may take some time, especially if it's your first time. Your greatest allies will be patience and practice.

You can create many creative projects beyond standard flat designs, from making unique amigurumi dolls to hats, with just a little practice and the right supplies. A firm grasp of the fundamental Tunisian stitches is also helpful. Try it and explore your new creativity of creating Tunisian crochet in the round.