What is it? – Tunisian crochet is a very cool niche of crochet. Actually you could also look at it as a very cool niche of knitting. That’s because Tunisian Crochet takes its DNA from both disciplines. Little bit from crochet, little bit from knitting. And what’s the result? A unique type of crochet that holds all of the loops on our crochet hook in a manner consistent with knitting but done on a special crochet hook. This combination of crochet and knitting results in a crocheted fabric with a truly unique texture. With this creative combination of both crochet and knitting DNA we can produce a much thicker, denser and less elastic fabric than with standard crochet. The final product of Tunisian crochet actually possesses many of the qualities of woven fabrics and is ideal for clothing, blankets or other items where we want a little extra girth or density for warmth or protection. That’s not to say that we can’t use larger than recommended hook sizes than suggested for any desired yarn to enhance its fluidity and drape. So how do we achieve this unique textured crochet? Crochet hooks? Knitting needles? What if we’re just doing rows or, conversely, perhaps working in the round. The answers are no, no and all depends. One thing is for sure. There are special tools designed just for Tunisian Crochet. As a rule, Tunisian crochet hooks are longer than regular crochet hooks. They are perfect if we’re working on simple rows. Longer rows need longer hooks so some are quite long. For really long rows we can even use a cable extension to hold the extra loops. And if we want to work Tunisian crochet in the round we’ll need either a double ended crochet hook or a circular Tunisian crochet hook. But then, of course, we’ll also need different sizes of hooks to facilitate our selected yarn size. The right tool for the right job, right? Right size, right length, right extension and right circular. Lot’s to keep track of. And Clover has done it all for you in one neat package. Clover’s Interchangeable Tunisian Crochet Hook Takumi Combo Set. Or the components are all available to you individually as needed. Up to you.
What does it do? – Tunisian crochet is unique. It begins with chain stitches like traditional crochet but after that it’s a whole new ball game. After this initial step our crocheted fabric is worked onto and then off of our hook with “forward” and “return” passes. Our work is never turned, just the same side worked back and forth. That’s the technique. The creative process, however, is not so simple. To enable that process, however, Clover has assembled all of the requisite tools and made them available individually or as a complete set.
Bamboo Crochet Hooks – Bamboo crochet hooks have a warm, organic feel to them with just the right amount of flex to make them comfortable. The unique bamboo surface allows smooth, fast crochet but is not so “slick” that you have to work to keep your loops in place. Clover interchangeable crochet hooks come in nine sizes, E (3.5mm), F (3.75mm), G (4.0mm), H (5.0mm), I (5.5mm), 7 (4.5mm), J (6.0mm), K (6.5mm), and L (8mm).
Clover Cables – Clover connecting cables are smooth and flexible with seamlessly smooth connections to the hooks. This allows your loops to move easily across them as you crochet. The cables are available in five sizes, 16″, 24″, 29″, 36″ and 48″.
Interchangeable Tunisian Crochet Hook Takumi Combo Set– The entire set of hooks and cords is also available in a combination set. All nine sizes of bamboo crochet hooks and all five sizes of connecting cords. Now all of the tools required to accomplish the most lofty creative aspirations is available in one place.
How do I share it? – This is a must have for any serious crochet artist. As always, samples sell. Show everyone all of the possibilities with the new stitches. Teach a few classes ranging from beginner to accomplished and you’ll have a new fan base. Fiber artists are always looking for something new and exciting to fuel those creative fires. Tunisian Crochet may just be it.
