TL YARN CRAFTS TAKEOVER – Tunisian Crochet is a unique craft that resembles the look of both knitting and traditional crochet. In this blog post, Toni Lipsey will give you 7 reasons why you should finally give Tunisian Crochet a try!
This blog post was written by Toni Lipsey, crochet designer and educator of TL Yarn Crafts.
You might have heard of Tunisian crochet lately. But you love knitting or crocheting already - why bother trying something new? I’ve got 7 compelling reasons why you’re really missing out if you still haven’t tried Tunisian crochet.
FREE: With Tunisian Crochet, you can mimic both knitting and crochet stitches. Get the pattern for the Chilly Pom Scarf here.
In this blog post, I’m breaking down why thousands of makers worldwide are adding Tunisian crochet to their lists of beloved crafts, and why you should, too!
1. It’s the perfect blend of knitting and traditional crochet
Tunisian crochet involves using a hook, just like traditional crochet. But that hook can be corded, much like a knitting needle, to allow you to make larger projects. Many knitters have mentioned that Tunisian crochet is easier to understand and use it as a stepping stone toward getting into traditional crochet.
2. You get to add to your skill set
One thing I know about makers - we can be a little bit competitive. We love sharing our knowledge with others and showing what we can do. Why be great at just knit or just crochet? Add Tunisian crochet as a way to impress your friends (and yourself!).
FREE: Tunisian Crochet never looked so good! This beautiful Checked Out Blanket you’ll want to keep all to yourself! Get the pattern here.
3. Add new tools to your stash without guilt
Tunisian crochet uses specialty tools that look like knitting needles with a hook on the end. You can use a crochet hook to practice Tunisian crochet, but you’ll eventually graduate to corded and even interchangeable hooks. Explore new brands to find the perfect Tunisian crochet hooks for you.
4. Practice new stitches
One of the things I love most about Tunisian crochet is how you can mimic the look of both knitting and traditional crochet with this craft. You also have a plethora of stitches that are unique to Tunisian crochet. This blend of so many beloved crafts makes for a delightful and unique stitching experience.
Let this chunky and oversized wrap be your introduction to Tunisian Crochet. Get the Plus Pattern for the Ada Shawl here.
5. Try out new colorwork techniques
Just like knitting and crochet, Tunisian crochet comes with its own set of rules when it comes to colorwork. Tunisian crochet is worked in two passes - the forward pass and the return pass. Think of them like the knit row and purl row in knitting. This distinctive technique offers many opportunities for stunning colorwork in your projects.
6. Give your muscles a chance to relax
Tunisian crochet uses different muscle combinations than knitting or crochet. If you’ve been stitching a lot and experience stress in your hands, try Tunisian crochet! It gives some muscles a chance to relax or to move in a different way, alleviating that stress while still being productive.
Tunisian Crochet is very chic and this Hot Cocoa Poncho is no exception! Find the Plus Pattern here.
7. Tunisian crochet gives you access to thousands of patterns and an endless supply of ideas
Popular pattern sites like Ravelry and Pinterest now offer thousands of classic and contemporary Tunisian crochet patterns for you to choose from. Contrary to popular belief, Tunisian crochet isn’t just for heavy sweaters and blankets. Make delicate shawls, breezy tops, and heirloom baby blankets with this addictive and stunning technique.
It’s Time - Learn Tunisian Crochet NOW!
Tunisian crochet is more than a trend. Designers, magazines, and yarn companies are beginning to recognize the desire for a fresh perspective when it comes to the needle arts. Tunisian crochet is becoming more accessible with tutorials and free patterns popping up all the time. And you can learn this fun technique with tools you already have in your stash!
If you have a traditional crochet hook and some yarn handy, you can learn the basics of Tunisian crochet in less than 15 minutes! After your first lesson, be sure to try out some fun stitches, color change techniques, then move into your first project!
I hope this post has convinced you to give Tunisian crochet a try. I began with crochet, then learned Tunisian crochet nearly 6 years ago and never looked back. I love practicing both crafts and I’m actively learning to knit right now. Each craft is special and brings its own flair. Click the links in this post to see what all the fuss is about.
This blog post was written by Toni Lipsey, crochet designer and educator of TL Yarn Crafts. Toni is known for her easy-to-follow crochet patterns for crocheters of all skill levels, and she loves to share her knowledge, experience, and favorite products on her blog, YouTube, and Instagram. Recently, she collaborated with us here at Hobbii to create Happy Place, a wonderful yarn made of 50% cotton and 50% wool.
Would you like to get to know Toni better? Read our Q&A with her here.
