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Tunisian Crochet Books

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This week we've been talking a lot about Tunisian crochet. We've re-shared a couple of our old book reviews about this niche of the craft.But, of course, there are a lot more books than what we've already previously reviewed. So, we wanted to do a roundup for you of some of the best Tunisian crochet books that are available.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. Therefore, I receive a percentage of sales from those links. Your price doesn't change in any way. Thank you for your support if you make a purchase.

tunisian crochet books

Petra Tornack-Zimmermann's 3 Tunisian Crochet Books

Tunisian crochet reference books

When you get into crochet, you need to invest in some great crochet stitch dictionaries. These are your reference guides for how to create different stitches, combine them, and make things with them. As far as Tunisian crochet books go in this niche, you'll want to look at author Petra Tornack-Zimmermann who has three different volumes: Basic and Textured Stitches, Colored and Striped Stitches, and Colorful Pattern Mix.

The Tunisian Crochet Handbook: A Beginner's Guide

tunisian crochet handbook

This isn't just a beginner's guide to Tunisian crochet. It's truly a look at how to take this ancient form of the craft and make it super modern. With the help of this book, you'll not only learn all that you need to know about how to work in this craft. Instead, you'll also learn how to use those skills to make chic, contemporary items that you'll be happy to own.

Tunisian Crochet: From Absolute Beginner to Advanced

tunisian crochet beginner book

This is a step-by-step lesson book. You'll really learn from the ground up how to create the stitches for Tunisian crochet then apply them to making increasingly advanced projects. If you're interested in learning the craft as a beginner, then this is one of the best Tunisian crochet books to add to your craft library.

Tunisian Crochet for Beginners

tunisian crochet for beginners

This book is a “how to” guide that first shows you the stitches and techniques. Then you get five crochet patterns to practice the stitches. If you don't want to commit to a long book as a beginner then this might be your favorite of the Tunisian crochet books.

Art of Tunisian Crochet

art of tunisian crochet

This is a true celebration of Tunisian crochet, including Tunisian crochet lace. It provides a history of this niche of the craft, as well as ample information about the stitches, techniques, and opportunities within it.

Fair Isle Tunisian Crochet

fair isle tunisian crochet

One of the great things about Tunisian crochet is the unique colorwork and graphic design that you can accomplish with the technique. This is one of the books about applying it to creating Fair Isle style designs including cowls, sweaters, and more.

Tunisian Baby Afghans to Crochet

tunisian baby afghans to crochet

Kim Guzman has authored several Tunisian crochet books including stitch dictionaries and beginner's guides. This is a roundup of her patterns for baby afghans using the niche technique. If you want to create great baby shower gifts that are unique from what recipients have already seen, this is a good resource.

Learn Tunisian Crochet in the Round

tunisian crochet books in the round

Most people learn Tunisian crochet in rows first. However, yes, you can work this craft in the round. There aren't a lot of Tunisian crochet books specific to working in the round. Therefore, you'll definitely want to make note of this one if you find yourself falling in love with the craft.

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Frequently Asked Questions

I'm totally new to Tunisian crochet… where should I even start?

So here's the thing… if you're brand new, I'd really recommend looking at books that are specifically for beginners. Books like “The Tunisian Crochet Handbook: A Beginner's Guide” or “Tunisian Crochet: From Absolute Beginner to Advanced” are great because they really teach you from the ground up.

What if I want to learn different Tunisian stitches?

Honestly… Petra Tornack-Zimmermann has a wonderful series of books that are like stitch dictionaries for Tunisian crochet! She has volumes on basic and textured stitches, colored and striped stitches, and even a colorful pattern mix book.

Can you really do Tunisian crochet in the round?

Yes! It's not as common as working in rows, and there aren't a ton of books dedicated to it… but “Learn Tunisian Crochet in the Round” is a great resource if you want to explore that technique.

I love making baby things… are there any books focused on Tunisian baby afghans?

Oh, absolutely! Kim Guzman has a book called “Tunisian Baby Afghans to Crochet” that's filled with patterns for adorable baby gifts using this technique. They're always so unique!

Is there a book that celebrates Tunisian crochet, like the history and all that?

You know, “Art of Tunisian Crochet” sounds like it might be just what you're looking for! It's described as a true celebration of the craft, including lace, and covers its history, stitches, and techniques.

Tunisian Crochet Workshop Book Review

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As you might have noticed, we're talking a lot about Tunisian crochet right now. It's a great niche of the craft, and we're excited to incorporate more of it into the Marly Bird world thanks to partnering with the wonderful Robyn Chachula. Since it's on our radar, we've been going back and updating the few related posts we have to make sure that we're bringing you the best information. Yesterday, we reviewed a book called Great Tunisian Crochet Projects. And today we want to draw your attention to our previous book review of Michelle Robinson's “Tunisian Crochet Workshop.” This book really could make anyone want to learn the craft.

*This post contains affiliate links. By clicking one of these links and making a purchase a small portion of that purchase will go to support the blog. The price that you pay does not change. The small commission I make allows me to keep bringing you free content like this. Thank you for your continued support.*

Tunisian crochet project featuring colorful squares in pink, blue, yellow, and green, with yarn balls in a basket.

What is Tunisian Crochet?

Tunisian crochet is often thought of as a combination of knitting and crochet. Using it, you produce a unique fabric that brings a look that resembles knitting together with the hook motion of crochet. Tunisian crochet is a type of crochet that holds multiple loops on the hook in a style similar to what is done in knitting. It differs from knitting in that it uses a crochet hook, not knitting needles, and you “cast off” after every double row rather than at the end of a project.

We've started adding Tunisian crochet options to our make-alongs. Game Day 2022 and Tournament of Stitches 2022 both had options for knit, crochet, and Tunisian crochet patterns.

Tunisian Crochet Workshop Book

Michelle has really set up the Tunisian Crochet Workshop book to be used by everyone. She breaks things down so that the absolute beginner to the craft really has a chance of working these beautiful projects and having them turn out great. The book is set up tso hat as you work through it, front to back, you will build on your skills and knowledge. When they chose the title of workshop they weren't kidding. It really does feel like a full class is packed into this book.

All of the projects are designed to include a broad range of the stitches and techniques shown within the book. This book not only teaches you about Tunisian Crochet and how to complete the stitches, but it also gives you projects to test your skills and make beautiful finished pieces in the process.

I have a feeling that after you browse through this post and see what is inside the book you will be asking for this book, some Tunisian hooks and new yarn to get started!

Starting from the Ground Up

Michelle really did a great job of thinking about the beginner in this book. Like I mentioned before, this truly is a workshop to teach you all that you need to know about Tunisian Crochet. Starting with the equipment you need, it goes on to show you basic stitches and techniques. Then you get into some more detailed stitch patterns and projects.

If you are not a beginner, though, this book can still be a great resource for you. It has everything that you might need all in one location for quick reference when you want to learn a new stitch or just need a refresher for the next project.

What You Need To Know

Once again Michelle thought of everything you need to be successful in your first project. She is sure to talk about gauge, working with color, tools needed, how to hold the hook, the anatomy of the stitches, and most importantly how to read charts.

If you are a chart lover like me, then it might take a minute to get used to reading a Tunisian chart as compared to a traditional crochet chart. They are different from what you have seen in other crochet patterns. Don't worry, though, because they aren't hard to use. It's just that you need to look at them a slightly different way.

Within the book you will also find photo tutorials on the basic stitches of Tunisian crochet. I really don't think that she left anything out! Best of all each of the techniques that she includes, like increasing and decreasing, are accompanied by a beautiful pattern.

Tunisian Crochet Workshop Projects:

Inside the book you will find the following patterns:

  • Tassel Pouch
  • Entrelac Bag
  • Ribbed Cowl
  • Simple Scarf
  • Herringbone Cushion
  • Cherry Potholder
  • Geometric Wall Hanging
  • Chevron Cushion
  • Pineapple Pincushion
  • Ombre Rug
  • Honeycomb Pouffe
  • Sampler Blanket

Purchase your Copy of Tunisian Crochet Workshop

Tunisian crochet workshop book-2

Overall Review Summary

Would I purchase this book? YES! Without a doubt, I would pick up a copy of this book. If you are looking to learn about Tunisian Crochet, or to have a great reference about the craft, then this would be a great investment.

Both the content and the photography in this book are top notch! My learning style is to understand why I am doing something, not to just be told to do it. In this book, she goes over each step to make sure you understand the background of what you are doing before you do it. If you don't like all that extra information, though, then don't worry because you can just skip over those sections and work on the pretty projects.

The only thing that I don't like about it, which is a complaint I have about most project books, particularly reference books, is that the book isn't spiral bound. Spiral bound books allow you to lay them flat while you are working on them. So, it would be nice if that were an option for this book, but it's okay since that's my only complaint.

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If you love to read about crochet, knitting, and yarn, then make sure to check out these lists:

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly IS Tunisian crochet?

Honestly… it's like knitting and crochet had a baby! You hold multiple loops on your hook, kind of like knitting, but you use a crochet hook. It makes this really unique fabric that looks a lot like knitting.

Is this book good for total beginners to Tunisian crochet?

Yes! Michelle really designed “Tunisian Crochet Workshop” to be used by everyone. She breaks things down so that even absolute beginners can work these beautiful projects and have them turn out great. It truly feels like a full class packed into the book.

What kind of projects are included in the book?

So here's the thing… there are quite a few! You'll find patterns for a Tassel Pouch, Entrelac Bag, Ribbed Cowl, Simple Scarf, Herringbone Cushion, Cherry Potholder, Geometric Wall Hanging, Chevron Cushion, Pineapple Pincushion, Ombre Rug, Honeycomb Pouffe, and a Sampler Blanket.

I'm not a beginner, can I still use this book?

Definitely! Even if you're not a beginner, this book can still be a great resource. It has everything you might need all in one place for a quick reference when you want to learn a new stitch or just need a refresher for your next project.

What's the one thing you wish was different about the book?

Well… the only thing I don't like, which is a complaint I have about most project books, is that it isn't spiral bound. It would be so nice if it could lay flat while I'm working on it, but it's okay since that's my only real complaint!

Tunisian Crochet Projects

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Recently we've been talking more and more about Tunisian crochet. So, we wanted to draw your attention back to a book review that we did in early 2020. There are a lot of great crochet books out there featuring this niche. Great Tunisian Crochet Projects by Kristel Salgarollo is the one we looked at in this review. It provides a solid introduction to the craft, including information on all of the stitches that you'll need to complete the twenty projects. Plus, it offers project variety. Get the book here.

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Tunisian crochet book

Introduction to Tunisian Crochet Projects

Opening the cover of Great Tunisian Crochet Projects by Kristel Salgarollo, you will find that you start off with a basic introduction to Tunisian Crochet. This is really important if you're new to the craft. After all, the Tunisian crochet projects use different stitches than “regular” crochet projects do. You get the opportunity to learn and grow.

4 Categories of Projects

The Tunisian crochet projects in this book are broken out into four categories:

  1. Afghans and More
  2. Pillows and Rugs
  3. Shawls and Scarves
  4. Purses and Accessories

As you can see, this gives you a lot of variety. You might start with smaller projects then work your way up to the afghans. Alternatively, you might dive straight into a big project so that you can build your skills as you work on it.

Spring Crochet Projects

tunisian crochet springtime blanket

You'll definitely get the chance to work on a variety of different projects if you work with this book. In particular, though, keep an eye out for some really great spring projects. There are two blanket patterns, including the one shown above, that feature terrific colors and floral designs.

Unique Tunisian Crochet Blanket Projects

Although all of the different projects are great, the blanket projects do really offer a lot. Tunisian crochet is a dense technique so it's great for warm blankets. What's wonderful about the projects in this book is the variety. As you can see from the image below, you can work in long rows or short rows and you can incorporate various graphic designs including unique circles.

Tunisian crochet table runners in polka dots, plaid, and stripes, displayed in a cozy living space with decorative elements.

Opportunities to Use “Regular” Crochet

When you work on Tunisian crochet projects, you aren't limited to just the stitches of this technique. Instead, you get the chance to combine what you already know in crochet with these additional stitches. As a result, you'll find a terrific combination of both traditional and Tunisian crochet within some of these projects.

Purchase Great Tunisian Crochet Projects

Get started on your Tunisian Journey by purchasing Great Tunisian Crochet Projects. You can purchase the book from Amazon with the link below.

Purchase a copy of Great Tunisian Crochet Projects from Amazon

You Might Also Like:

If you love to read about crochet, knitting, and yarn, then make sure to check out these lists:

Frequently Asked Questions

I'm totally new to Tunisian Crochet, where do I even start?

So here's the thing… this book, _Great Tunisian Crochet Projects_ by Kristel Salgarollo, is a fantastic place to begin! It starts with a nice intro to the technique, which is super important because Tunisian crochet uses different stitches than what you might be used to. You'll get all the info you need to get going.

Are the projects in this book just blankets?

Honestly… no way! While the blankets are amazing and super cozy because Tunisian crochet is so dense, the book has so much variety. They're broken down into four categories: Afghans and More, Pillows and Rugs, Shawls and Scarves, and Purses and Accessories. There's something for everyone!

Can I mix my regular crochet skills with Tunisian crochet?

Yes! That's one of the coolest parts about working with these projects. The book lets you combine what you already know about traditional crochet with the new Tunisian stitches. You get this wonderful blend of both techniques, which can lead to some really unique and beautiful items.

Does this book have projects that would be good for spring?

Oh, absolutely! You'll find some really lovely spring-themed projects in there, especially blankets. The ones shown in the book have such pretty colors and floral designs… perfect for brightening things up as the weather gets warmer!

I saw a comment about carrying yarn… can you do that in Tunisian crochet?

That's a great question! The page mentions that you can combine traditional crochet stitches with Tunisian ones, and sometimes that means you don't need to worry about carrying yarn in the same way you might think. The book focuses on teaching you the stitches needed for the projects, so you'll learn the best way to achieve the patterns for each specific project.

26 Free Crochet and Knit Self-Striping Patterns

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26 Free Self-Striping Patterns Using O'Go Yarn

Knit Self-Striping Projects

Get gorgeous stripes with these knit projects using any self striping yarn.

Honeycomb Baby Rainbow Knit Blanket Free Knitting Pattern

Crochet Self-Striping Projects

You'll love to crochet these projects using any self striping yarn!

Chevron Crochet Scarf Free Crochet Pattern

Also on the Blog

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of yarn is best for these self-striping patterns?

Honestly… the great thing about these patterns is that they are designed to work with *any* self-striping yarn! So grab whatever colors call to you from the yarn store…

Can I really make these projects if I'm just starting out?

Yes! There are a few patterns listed that are for advanced beginners, but many are perfect for those just learning. You'll find a nice mix of knit and crochet projects that are super approachable.

I love to crochet… are there lots of crochet patterns here?

You bet! There's a whole section dedicated to crochet self-striping projects. You'll find everything from scarves to blankets and even a cute hat!

What if I prefer knitting?

No worries at all! There's also a big list of knit self-striping projects. You can make cozy blankets, stylish cowls, and even a dog sweater!

Can I get these patterns as a PDF?

So here's the thing… while these patterns are free, you can get them in an ad-free PDF format. Just check out The Pattern Shop for those handy downloads!

7 Free Frog Patterns | Craft, Knit and Crochet

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There are over 6,000 frog species all over the world! They're common in folk tales and fairy tales, and now you can make your own frog projects for your home with these projects to crochet, knit and craft.

Various frog-themed knitting and crochet projects in bright greens, featuring plush toys and wearable designs.
Pompom Frog with Handprints Craft Pattern

Also on the Blog

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these frog patterns only for crochet?

Oh, heavens no! … You can totally find patterns to knit and craft these little guys too. We've got a whole mix on this page!

How many frog patterns are on this page?

Honestly… there are 7 FREE frog patterns listed here! Perfect for getting your froggy fix.

Is the Pompom Frog with Handprints pattern beginner-friendly?

Yes! That particular pattern is listed as Advanced Beginner. So if you've got a little crochet or knitting under your belt, you should be good to go!

Where can I find these frog patterns?

So here's the thing… all the links for these cute frog patterns are right here in the blog post. Just click on the one you like!

Can I make a froggy scrubby?

You bet! … There's a link for a “Froggy Scrubby” pattern right here in the list, so you can add a little amphibian flair to your cleaning routine.

Tunisian Crochet: The Ultimate BiCrafty Technique

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Have you noticed that we're starting to incorporate more Tunisian crochet into the Marly Bird world? As you know, we celebrate BiCrafty-ness here. In other words, we recognize crochet and knitting equally. In fact, we love bringing crocheters and knitters together in our make-alongs, classes, and community experiences. The Tunisian technique itself is practically the ultimate BiCrafty technique because it incorporates knitting concepts into crochet concepts in unique ways. So, let's start celebrating this craft here too!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. I receive a percentage of sales from those links. However, your price doesn't increase. Thank you for your support.

Tunisian crochet

What Is Tunisian Crochet?

Also called Afghan crochet, it is typically considered a niche of crochet. In other words, you use some of the same foundations of crochet to work the craft. People generally (although certainly not always) learn “regular” crochet first. Then they take an interest in this technique and expand their skills by learning it.

This technique is also, in many ways, a blend of knitting and crochet. How so? It's because in Tunisian crochet, you'll “cast on” an entire row of stitches. In other words, your crochet hook holds multiple loops just like a knitting needle does.

This makes it a niche of crochet that's different from regular crochet. However, it's different from knitting as well, because you “cast off” every other row rather than at the end of the project.

So, in crochet, you build one loop on the other. In knitting, you cast on at the beginning and cast off at the end. In Tunisian crochet, you basically build one row on top of another, casting off at the end of rows.

Tunisian Crochet Hooks

There are certain Tunisian projects and techniques that you can do using your regular crochet hooks. You do not use knitting needles in Tunisian crochet. However, if you want to really work in this craft, then you're going to need to purchase some Tunisian crochet hooks.

These hooks are similar to regular crochet hooks. However, they're longer. That's because you need to hold loops on your hook as you work. So, their bodies look more like straight knitting needles because of their length. However, they still have crochet hook heads on top.

Like knitting needles, the non-hook end might have a stopper (to prevent your loops from falling off the hook) or a cable (to hold the loops.) And yes, you can get interchangeable Tunisian hooks. Alternatively, you can get double-ended hooks. As their name suggests, these have a crochet hook on either end.

what is Tunisian crochet

Tunisian Crochet Stitches

What you already know about knitting and crochet will make it easier for you to learn Tunisian stitches. But yes, the niche technique does have its own stitches. Some of the most common stitches are:

  • Tunisian Simple Stitch
  • Tunisian Reverse Stitch
  • Knit and Purl Stitches in Tunisian

As you learn the craft, you'll obviously also learn new stitches.

Join Our Make-Alongs!

For years now, the Marly Bird make-alongs have included both crochet and knitting patterns. Now that I'm partnering with Robyn Chachula, we've started offering Tunisian crochet options as well. For example, you might have noticed that Game Day 2022 had crochet, knitting, and Tunisian patterns. Likewise, Tournament of Stitches 2022, happening right now, also offers all three crafts. We have lots of different make-alongs throughout the year, so keep joining us for those!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Tunisian crochet like regular crochet or knitting?

Honestly… it's kind of like both! It's a niche of crochet, so you use some of the same foundations, but it also incorporates knitting concepts. You cast on an entire row of stitches, holding multiple loops on your hook like knitting needles, but you cast off every other row, which is different from knitting.

Do I need special hooks for Tunisian crochet?

Yes, you do! While you might be able to do some smaller Tunisian projects with a regular crochet hook, if you want to really get into it, you'll need Tunisian crochet hooks. They're longer than regular hooks because you need to hold all those loops!

What are some basic Tunisian crochet stitches I should know?

So here's the thing… once you know knitting and crochet, learning Tunisian stitches will be easier. The most common ones to start with are the Tunisian Simple Stitch and the Tunisian Reverse Stitch. You'll also learn knit and purl stitches within the Tunisian technique!

Can I do Tunisian crochet in Marly Bird make-alongs?

Yes! We totally celebrate BiCrafty-ness here, and that includes Tunisian crochet. In fact, we've started offering Tunisian crochet options in our make-alongs, just like we have crochet and knitting patterns.

Is Tunisian crochet difficult to learn?

Well… it's a niche technique, so it's a little different from regular crochet. But if you already know how to crochet or knit, you'll find it easier to pick up. It just blends those concepts in unique ways!