The Tunisian Rib Stitch is a versatile and textured pattern used in Tunisian crochet, known for its stretchy and ribbed appearance that mimics the look of knitted ribbing. You will need it for projects that benefit from a stretchy, ribbed texture, such as hats, cuffs, scarves, and sweater hems.
What crochet skills do I need for the Tunisian Rib Stitch?
Crocheting the Tunisian Rib Stitch involves alternating between two types of stitches to create a ribbed effect, i.e. the Tunisian Simple Stitch (TSS) and the Tunisian Purl Stitch (TPS) or, in some variations, the Tunisian Knit Stitch (TKS).
Tunisian Simple Stitch (TSS):
Insert your hook under the vertical bar of the second stitch from the hook (the first vertical bar is worked as the edge stitch), yarn over, and pull up a loop. Keep the loop on the hook.
Tunisian Knit Stitch (TKS):
Insert your hook between the front and back vertical bars of the next stitch, coming out the back of the work, yarn over, and pull up a loop. Keep the loop on your hook.
The stitch pattern involves working a sequence of these stitches across the row, creating a fabric that has vertical ribs.
Of course, you should also be familiar with the Tunisian Crochet Basics,
- Understanding how to create a foundation row in Tunisian crochet is crucial since it differs from traditional crochet.
- Forward and Return Passes: Tunisian crochet is unique in that it consists of forward passes (where you pick up stitches) and return passes (where you work those stitches off the hook).
- Standard Return Pass: This is the typical method used to complete the return pass in Tunisian crochet, working off the loops you've picked up during the forward pass.
Step by Step instructions on how to crochet the Tunisian Rib Stitch in Rows
The process typically starts with an even number of stitches on the hook, and you work the alternating stitches across the forward pass, then complete the return pass in the usual manner. This stitch pattern can be worked with a single-ended Tunisian crochet hook for flat pieces or a double-ended hook for working in the round, allowing for even more versatility in projects.
Materials and Crochet Accessories Needed:
- Tunisian crochet hook, either interchangeable or double-ended. Lantern Moon Interchangeable Tunisian crochet hooks boast a silk-like finish for effortless crocheting and snag-free yarn glide. Their finely crafted hook tips allow for effortless, smooth maneuvering.
- Yarn to match the size of your hook
- Yarn Needles for weaving in ends once your project is completed.
- A sharp pair of scissors, apt for cutting yarn.
- A measuring tape for checking gauge and dimensions
Foundation Row:
- Start with a slip knot and chain any even number of stitches to achieve the desired width of your project.
- Insert your hook into the second chain from the hook, yarn over, and pull up a loop. Continue this across the chain, keeping all loops on your hook.
- Work a standard return pass by yarning over and pulling through one loop first (this forms the edge stitch), then yarning over and pulling through two loops repeatedly until you have only one loop left on your hook.
Row 1 (Forward Pass):
- Alternate TSS (Tunisian Simple Stitch) and TKS (Tunisian Slip Stitch) across the row, ending with a TSS in the last stitch before the final edge stitch.
Row 1 (Return Pass):
- Work a standard return pass by yarning over and pulling through one loop first, then yarning over and pulling through two loops repeatedly until you have only one loop left on your hook.
- Continue working on row 1's sequence for the length of your project, always starting with a TSS and alternating with a TKS, followed by a standard return pass. This creates the ribbed effect characteristic of the Tunisian Rib Stitch.
Finishing:
- Once your project reaches the desired length, you can bind off in a pattern by slip stitching or working a single crochet in each stitch across, mirroring the stitch pattern (TSS or TKS) to maintain the ribbed look to the very end.
Tips for Success:
- Ensure you have an even number of stitches to maintain the ribbed pattern correctly.
- Keep the yarn tension of the loops on your crochet hook consistent to avoid tight stitches, making working into them more challenging.
- The last stitch of each forward pass should be inserted by inserting the Tunisian hook under vertical and back horizontal bars to create a neat edge.
The Tunisian Rib Stitch is excellent for projects that require stretch and ribbing texture, such as hats, scarves, and sweater edgings. Lantern Moon offers exquisite Tunisian hooks and complete sets crafted from sustainable ebony for those looking to maximize the joy of crocheting. These premium hooks enhance your crafting with their polished, luxurious feel and longevity. Enjoy experimenting with this versatile stitch in your Tunisian projects, and discover the difference a cutting-edge crochet hook can make!