Types and Uses of Tunisian Crochet Hooks
- Christina
- Jul 2, 2023
- 3 min read
Tunisian crochet is a crochet technique that involves not having to turn your work when working flat. The first half of the row is worked to the left and the second half of the row is worked back to the right. This makes Tunisian crochet super fun, quick and easy in my opinion.
There are a few options when deciding if and which type of Tunisian crochet hooks you need. I say if because you can do Tunisian crochet on a regular crochet hook. The downside is that you can only do small projects and aren't able to work Tunisian crochet in the round with regular, small, single hooked crochet hooks.
Types of Tunisian Crochet Hooks
These are standard Tunisian crochet hooks. They can be made from aluminium, bamboo or plastic and come in the same sizes as regular crochet hooks. These hooks are longer than typical crochet hooks because Tunisian crochet is made, much like in knitting, with all the stitches from a row being kept on the hook for the first half of the row. Single sided straight Tunisian crochet hooks are great for flat crocheting smaller projects. They are lightweight and very convenient.
These types of Tunisian crochet hooks have a hook on both ends, facing opposite directions. This is used for Tunisian crochet in the round, such as for hats, headbands, stuffed animals, etc) where one end is used to pick up the stitches and the other is used to work them off as you go around.
These hooks are made with a hook on each end of a cable. The hooks are can be switched out with hooks of a different size. These come in kits and, tho they tend to be on the pricier side, are a super conveniently portable way to carry an entire set of Tunisian crochet hooks.
These types of Tunisian crochet hooks have a long cable with a stopper at the end of the hook. These is for picking up long rows such as for afghans and shawls.
Things to keep in mind while choosing which Tunisian crochet hook style is right for you:
- Feel. This is very important. If you are already a crocheter than you likely know what kind of material you would like to have your Tunisian crochet hooks made out of. While aluminium is light weight and durable they can also be cold and slippery. Bamboo Tunisian hooks are my number one choice. I like the feel and even the flexibility.
-The types of projects you will be making. This is very important when choosing your hooks. You can't Tunisian crochet an afghan on a short hook and you don't need all that extra cord if your going to be making small projects and you need circular Tunisian hooks if your going to be making projects in the round.
My recommendation would be KnitPal 10" double ended Tunisian Crochet Hook Set in 5 different sizes. This is a great set to start because you can try Tunisian crochet flat or in the round with different size hooks and not break the bank if you decide it's not for you. Bonus: They're bamboo!
Tunisian Crochet is a great way to break up your crochet projects and try something a little different. I highly recommend learning this new skill, with the right tools!