How To Tunisian Crochet In The Round

How to Tunisian Crochet in the Round: A Beginner's Guide

Tunisian crochet is a fascinating technique that creates beautiful, dense fabrics perfect for everything from cozy sweaters to intricate home décor. While often worked in rows, Tunisian crochet in the round opens up a world of possibilities for creating seamless, cylindrical projects. This guide will walk you through the essentials, helping you master this rewarding skill.

Getting Started: Essential Supplies and Terminology

Before you begin your Tunisian crochet journey in the round, gather these essential supplies:

1. Tunisian Crochet Hook:

This isn't your average crochet hook! A Tunisian crochet hook is long and has a slightly smaller head than traditional hooks. The length allows you to hold multiple stitches on the hook simultaneously. The size you choose will depend on your yarn weight and desired fabric tension.

2. Yarn:

Choose a yarn that suits your project. Worsted weight yarn is a great starting point for beginners, offering a good balance of visibility and ease of work.

3. Scissors:

For snipping your yarn.

4. Yarn Needle (optional):

For weaving in your ends.

Key Terminology:

• Forward Pass: The process of inserting your hook into each stitch and yarn over to create a new stitch on the hook.
• Return Pass: The process of working off the stitches on the hook one by one.
• Tunisian Simple Stitch (TSS): The basic stitch used in most Tunisian crochet projects.

Mastering the Tunisian Simple Stitch in the Round

The Tunisian Simple Stitch is the foundation for many Tunisian crochet patterns. Here’s how to work it in the round:

1. Starting the Round:

Make a slip knot and place it on your hook. Chain a multiple of 2 + 1 (this accounts for the starting chain and ensures an even number of stitches for the round).

2. The Forward Pass:

Insert your hook into the second chain from the hook and yarn over. Continue to yarn over and insert your hook into each chain until you reach the end. You should now have a series of loops on your hook.

3. The Return Pass:

Yarn over and draw through the first loop on your hook. Yarn over and draw through the next two loops on your hook, continuing until you’ve worked off all the loops on your hook. You have now completed one round.

4. Continuing the Rounds:

Chain 1 (this acts as your turning chain) and repeat the forward pass and return pass for the following rounds, ensuring that each stitch is worked into the top of the corresponding stitch from the previous round. This creates a continuous spiral effect.

Tips for Success:

• Consistent Tension: Maintaining consistent tension throughout your project is crucial for a neat and even fabric. Practice working with the same tension for both the forward and return passes.
• Stitch Markers: Using stitch markers can help prevent you from losing your place when working in the round.
• Gauge Swatch: Creating a gauge swatch before beginning your project is highly recommended to ensure your finished project will be the correct size.

Beyond the Basics: Exploring Tunisian Crochet in the Round Patterns

Once you’ve mastered the Tunisian Simple Stitch in the round, you can explore more complex patterns. Many patterns are available online and in books, featuring intricate stitch combinations and stunning designs. Look for patterns that clearly explain the instructions and provide charts or diagrams to guide you.

Conclusion

Tunisian crochet in the round allows for the creation of beautiful, seamless cylindrical pieces. With a little practice and patience, you’ll be creating stunning projects in no time! Remember to always refer back to the fundamentals and don't be afraid to experiment and discover your own unique style. Happy crocheting!