Tunisian crochet is truly the most versatile type of needlework I’ve ever encountered. It can look woven, knitted or crocheted, depending on the stitches used. It’s not only one technique. It’s like having all three, together with only one hook.
When I first contracted to do this book with Leisure Arts, my primary goal was to share some projects that had a knit look so that people could see how Tunisian crochet can look like hand knitting. I chose that individual look about the technique that looked so much like knitting, not because I want to turn crochet into knitting, but because I wanted to share with people the true versatility and depth of Tunisian crochet.
The projects in the book use knitting concepts and stitch patterns which look like knitting. Everything in the book from the stockinette scarf and hat to the hoodie vest to the cute little cabled mitts look so much like knitting that, at first glance, you would swear that’s it’s knitting and not crochet.
And, while I could have written a book solely with projects, I wanted so much more from this book. And, to be honest, perhaps I got a bit carried away. I literally put everything I had into the book. There are things in this book which you don’t normally find in project books. The entire beginning section of the book teaches the stitches used in the book and that’s pretty normal. But, then I wanted to give direction on those little things that I’ve learned from my students which tend to hinder their progress. There is instruction on how to change colors or skeins of yarn. How to seam, both horizontally and vertically. How to use self-striping yarn for best results. Step-by-step on hand felting. There is so much to discover in this book.
But, my dilemma? My dilemma is your gain. My dilemma was writing the next book. Ha! I have to admit that I had a rather difficult time trying to get the next book out of my head when I had already completely drained my brain of every single thing about Tunisian crochet. I apparently don’t know the meaning of saving something back for the next book. I’m actually sort of shocked that I was able to get three more books out of my head after this one.
Here are some things I’ve read around the internet about this book.
“This is a terrific, very informative book that should be in everyone’s library, regardless of skill level. Lots of pictures and terrific explanations. The reverse stitch substitutes wonderfully for Tunisian purl (which I’ve never liked), and will combine with cable stitches to produce a look very similar to knitting. Of course, I’m going to get Kim’s cable book when it comes out in August! Meanwhile do order Kim’s “Beginner’s” book-everyone can benefit from a new and very thorough perspective on Tunisian.”
“Even though I have not made any of the projects in this book, I have marked several that I will be making in the near future. The instructions are easy to read and the projects do not seem like they will take a long period of time to complete.”
“This book is amazing and the instructions are wonderful. Helps you learn different stitches and patterns. Love this book and am so glad I ordered it. If you want to learn Tunisian crochet this book is fabulous!”
I’ve heard that the book is available at most JoAnn’s, Michaels and Hobby Lobby locations. You can also purchase directly from the publisher at Leisure Arts here or through Amazon here. I hope you enjoy it. It’s one of my biggest accomplishments.
Update: The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide to Tunisian crochet is also now available in e-book download format here.
