How We Use It: Tunisian Crochet Hooks *free scarf pattern inside*

Perched on a shelf in our studio is a petite flower pot brimming with vintage crochet hooks and knitting needles and other assorted sewing and crafting tools that we’ve inherited over the years. Although they no longer serve a practical purpose, they hold an undeniable sentimental value that prompts us to keep them close. Amongst these crafty antiquities, there resides an impressively lengthy azure hook, constructed from an alloy that we cannot identify but that we are sure will be around long after all of us. The hook’s previous owner referred to it as an Afghan hook, employing it deftly to create intricate patterns using Tunisian crochet techniques. Shannon, now the fortunate inheritor of this Tunisian crochet hook, had initially intended to fashion a splendid Afghan using its exceptional properties. However, fate had other plans, and Shannon’s grandiose aspirations remained unfulfilled. The main issues? First, this elongated hook, when adorned with numerous stitches and a substantial amount of fabric, proves rather unwieldy and challenging to manipulate. Perhaps a smaller project, like a scarf, could be attempted? Alas, even this simple endeavor remained unaccomplished. Pot holders and washcloths, however, managed to be completed, if only once. However, the metallic tool has now become cumbersome and unpleasant, particularly for those plagued by arthritis or tendonitis – the second of our main issue with this lovely relic. Regrettably, this very hook has dissuaded both of us from attaining mastery in the intricate domain of Tunisian crochet.

However, with the passage of time, Clover has released their Takumi Interchangeable Tunisian Crochet Hook set, which has compelled us to reconsider our previous stance. It has been our saving grace when reconsidering Tunisian crochet. Let us elaborate upon the reasons behind our newfound admiration for this set.

To begin with, the hooks included in this set are expertly crafted from top-notch bamboo. Not only are they pleasant to the touch, but they also ensure smooth movement of yarn along their surface. Interestingly, the hooks become even smoother with frequent use, making them ideal for the intricate stitch manipulations of Tunisian crochet. Additionally, this kit offers a wide range of hook sizes and cable lengths, catering to projects of any size. Both the cables and the accompanying stoppers feature reliable mechanical connections that are securely screwed into place. These connections are exceptionally seamless, preventing any snags or issues, regardless of the yarn types and styles we have worked with. This includes delicate and soft two-ply yarns that are prone to splitting (you know the ones…). These welcoming hooks provide a comfortable grip, and are combined with high-quality materials that ensure effortless stitching, so our initial concerns regarding cold, hard, and clumsy hooks have disappeared!!! This has prompted us to explore Tunisian crochet and take on various projects. So here we present to you a scarf pattern to learn, practice, and show off your Tunisian crochet skills. Given that it incorporates the Tunisian honeycomb stitch, we have named it “The Honeycomb Scarf.”

Along with this pattern, our video on Clover’s YouTube channel features a tutorial for how to make the Honeycomb Scarf, including how to make the Tunisian simple stitch and the Tunisian purl stitch that create this cozy, wonderfully textured scarf. Whip one up, bundle up, and you will have a FAB new accessory for wearing (or giving if you are the generous type) before you know it!

If you’d like to shop Clover’s Interchangeable Tunisian crochet hooks, CLICK HERE!

 

HONEYCOMB SCARF PATTERN:

ABBREVIATIONS:

• ch: chain
• st: stitch
• yo: yarn over
• rep: repeat
• sl st: slip stitch
• vb: vertical bar
• hb: horizontal bar
• FP: forward pass
• RP: return pass
• tunisian simple stitch (tss): Insert hook under front vertical bar, yo, pull up a loop
• tunisian purl stitch (tps): bring yarn to front of work, insert hook under front vertical bar, move yarn to back of work, yo, pull up a loop

NOTES:

• Tunisian crochet stitches are created by making a forward pass followed by a return pass. The forward pass makes the stitches and adds loops to the shaft of the hook, the return pass works the loops off the hook and completes the stitches of that row.
• The “front” of Tunisian crochet fabric is facing you at all times. You will not turn your work at the ends of rows.
• To create a tidy edge at the end of a forward pass row, insert hook under both vertical bars, yo, pull up a loop. This will ensure both edges match.

PATTERN STITCH:

Row 1

• FP: Tks in first st from hook, *tps in next st, tks in next st; rep from * to end of row
• RP: Yo and draw a loop through first two loops on hook working those loops off the hook, *yo and draw through next loop working that loop off hook; rep from * to end of row until 1 loop remains on hook. This final loop is the first loop of the next row.

Row 2

• FP: Tps in first st, *tks in next st, tps in next st; rep from * to end of row.
• RP: Yo and draw a loop through first two loops on hook working those loops off the hook, *yo and draw through next loop working that loop off hook; rep from * to end of row until 1 loop remains on hook. This final loop is the first loop of the next row.
• *Note: the key to this pattern stitch is to work tps in the tks of the previous row and tks in the tps of the previous row.

SCARF PATTERN:

Ch 36

• FP: Working in back bump of each ch st, yo and draw up a loop onto the hook to end of row.
• RP: Yo and draw a loop through first two loops on hook working those loops off the hook, *yo and draw through next loop working that loop off hook; rep from * to end of row until 1 loop remains on hook. This final loop is the first loop of the next row.
• Working in Pattern Stitch changing colors every 15 rows or as desired… or not at all! It’s up to you! Work until desired length is achieved.

FINISHING:

• Block to set stitches.
• Weave in all ends

 

THAT’S IT! 🙂 Go forth and be warm, cozy, and ever so stylish in your handmade Honeycomb Scarf!

If you want to keep up with us, Shannon and Jason, on social media for other fun projects, follow me on social media: Instagram

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