by Trenna Sue Hiler

Created on: March 04, 2010

Tunisian crocheting is often described as a cross between knitting and crocheting.   When a project is completed the end result looks more like a woven fabric than traditional crocheting or knitting. The hook is typically a long crochet with a stopper at the end. Each row is worked in two passes in Tunisian crocheting. The project is never turned but always worked on from the right side.  There are many different patterns available for Tunisian crocheting.

 ~ 101 Easy Tunisian Stitches ~

One of the best books for anyone to get patterns and develop skills with Tunisian crocheting is 101 Easy Tunisian Stitches, designed by Carolyn Christmas and Dorris Brooks. Not only does the book have some complete patterns, but it has many stitches. 

Clear and easy to follow directions are given for the following stitches.
*popcorn
*cables
*post stitches
*pebbles
*puffs
*shell stitches
*open patterns
*lace patterns

It would be a great option for those who like to mix and match stitches to create more patterns.  It is easy enough for a beginner and creative enough for an accomplished crocheter.

~ Tunisian Crochet: The Look of Knitting with the Ease of Crocheting ~
This book written by Sharon Hernes Silverman has excellent patterns and illustrations.  It is not for the beginner as far as most of the patterns.  However, it gives a good history and explains the art very well.  This is a book to purchase after three or four successful projects.

There are many on line sites that have excellent Tunisian crochet patterns that are free.  Most of them do require that one sign in and become a member.  The best way to do this is to set up an email account to handle only these type of emails.  Then if one finds a pattern or information extremely helpful it can be bookmarked.  It won't clutter up the email one used for personal correspondence.

~ www.freepatterns.com ~
Signing up for this site is a little overwhelming as they ask one to view many options.  However, once in the Tunisian patterns are plentiful and free.  Be care on this site to note that somecontributors end the pattern by saying "This have never been tested".  The pattern may work out fine, but each new crocheter would be a trial run.

~ www.lionbrand.com ~
This site is one that requires a log in and sends several emails.  It is also important to remember that it is sponsored by a yarn manufacture, so all recommendations are for their brand of yarn.

With that being said, the Tunisian patterns are clear, easy to understand, give great examples and pictures.  They have a variety of ways  to get patterns.  They can be down loaded for free.  Patterns can be purchased in kits with all supplies and shipped.

If a review comes along on a pattern a member has downloaded or purchased with suggestions it is automatically sent.  This has been very helpful. Experienced crocheters often tweak things a bit for a different look.

~ www.crochetpatterncentral.com ~
This is sort of a pattern warehouse on line.  Some Tunisian crochet patterns are on this site directly and others take you to another site to participate.   They have both free and purchase patterns.  It is a clear and precise website.

There are many patterns available.  It is still in a crocheters best interested to have a few books purchased with clear instructions and pictures of the basics.  The books act like a guide through any other patterns one may find.

Get the long hook and make something warm and cozy.

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