Week #8: Tunisian Basics Crochet-Along

This week in the 2023 Tunisian Basics Crochet Along we are learning the last of the most basic Tunisian crochet stitches: the Purl Stitch. This stitch looks so similar to the Garter Stitch in knitting that at first glance one may mistake it for the other.

Tunisian Basics Crochet Along Square #8

The Purl stitch is not often used as the main or only stitch in a pattern. Instead, the Purl stitch is most used in combination with other basic Tunisian stitches to create more interesting designs. From here on out is where the fun really starts!

The majority of the remaining square patterns for the Crochet-Along (weeks #9, #11, and #12) are “combination stitches” meaning that we are combining the basics stitches we have already mastered (or we are mastering today 😉) to create different stitch patterns. The Purl stitch must be included in these squares before we can move on.

In this CAL we are starting with the basics. The goal of this project is for you to walk away with not only a snazzy new blanket, but with a firm grasp of all things Tunisian crochet. This includes all of the basic stitches, how to read the patterns, mastering your tension, adjusting stitch counts, and so much more.

I decided to make 24 squares for my crochet-along blanket, two of each week’s pattern. My finished blanket will be 4 blocks wide and 6 blocks tall, plus the width of the border. See more about blanket sizing here.

Some things to note about this square:

There is no multiple of chains needed for this stitch when worked alone. Start with ANY number to achieve your desired width.

It is common to have a small gap on the left edge of your work when using this stitch. To combat this, intentionally make the first “YO, pull through 2 loops” a bit on the tighter side. (Not the chain-1 that is the outside stitch)

Square #8: Tunisian Purl Square

If you are new to this Crochet-Along, you will want to start here with the Materials & Information post. You will also benefit from the Ultimate Guide to Tunisian Crochet. This will not only help beginners to learn the techniques used in Tunisian crochet, there are helpful tips and notes for any skill level.

Now… let’s get started!

Materials:

Brava Worsted Yarn
-approx. 130 yards

Crochet hook in size 7mm (or needed to obtain gauge)

Gauge: approx. 13 sts x 11.5 rows = 4″ (10 cm) square

Finished Dimensions: approx. 11.75″ (30 cm) square

It is most important that your squares throughout the Crochet-Along remain consistent in size to each other, even if they don’t exactly match my measurements. If you find that your square is not the correct size, you can either change your hook size or adjust the number of chains needed to start.

Tunisian Stitch Multiple: There is no multiple needed for this stitch. You can start with ANY number of chains. Follow along with the video tutorial for this stitch, starting with a chain of 38.

Pattern Notes:

Pattern written using US terms.

Return Pass: Ch-1, * YO, pull through 2 loops * repeat from * to end.

Tpslst = Tunisian Purl Slip Stitch (to fasten off, slip stitch using same hook placement as with the Purl stitch)

Tunisian Purl Square:

Foundation Row: Ch-38, pull up a loop in the 2nd chain from the hook and in each to end. Return Pass. (38)

Rows 2 – 34: TPS across. Edge stitch. Return Pass. (38)

Tpslst across. Ch-1, rotate, * sc in each row end to corner, 3sc in corner st, sc in each st across, 3sc in corner st * repeat between * * one more time. Fasten off using Invisible Join.

You will want to block each of your squares as they are completed. See this full tutorial on how to block your crochet pieces.

Of course you could wait and do them all at once before we assemble the blanket at the end of the Crochet-Along, but doing it as we go gets it out of the way while also ensuring that our sizing is correct for each square as we go along.

For my blocking board I marked out a 12″ square using my T-Pins. I then used a contrasting yarn to tie round the perimeter of the square to make blocking the square in straight lines to be easier and faster.

I am keeping this blocking template handy for the duration of the CAL so I can block as needed. Awesome!

When you finish your square be sure to comment with a photo of it on this post in the Heart Hook Home Crochet Community on Facebook. You can also tag me by using @HeartHookHome across all social media, and/or use the hashtag #2023TunisianCAL so we can ALL see!

Stay tuned for NEXT Wednesday, September 6th, 2023, when the next square will be released.