Tunisian Basketweave Stitch – Free Tunisian Crochet Stitch Tutorial
If you love Tunisian crochet stitches that deliver big texture with minimal effort, the Tunisian Basketweave Stitch is about to become one of your new favorites. This classic technique creates a woven, interlocking look that adds beautiful depth to blankets, scarves, pillows, and so many other handmade pieces. Even better — it’s much easier to work than it looks.
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This is the November Stitch for the 2025 New Year New Stitch Crochet Along!
Whether you’re brand new to Tunisian crochet or you’re looking to expand your stitch library with something richly textured, the Tunisian Basketweave Stitch is a must-try. In this post, we’ll walk through what makes this stitch special, how it’s constructed, why it works so well with so many yarns, and how you can use it in your upcoming crochet projects.
This is a great stitch to learn if you want high-impact texture without complicated shaping or tricky techniques. Grab your hook, pick your favorite yarn, and let’s chat all things basketweave!
What is Tunisian Crochet?
Tunisian crochet is a unique fiber art technique that blends the best of both worlds—crochet and knitting. Like crochet, it’s worked with a single hook, but instead of completing each stitch right away, you keep a row of loops on your hook—similar to knitting. The result is a beautifully textured fabric that feels dense, warm, and full of character.
Tunisian crochet is worked using special crochet hooks, called Tunisian Crochet Hooks, and much like knitting, you can get straight Tunisian hooks or circular Tunisian hooks. However, smaller projects, like 6″ afghan squares, can be worked on a traditional crochet hook! It just needs to be a plain hook with no special handle or grip.
What is the Tunisian Basketweave Stitch?
The Tunisian Basketweave Stitch is a gorgeous textured stitch pattern worked in Tunisian crochet. The finished fabric features a raised, grid-like pattern that mimics woven baskets — hence the name. The alternating vertical and horizontal textures make it visually interesting while still feeling balanced and classic.
What makes this stitch unique is the way it uses two basic Tunisian stitches:
- Tunisian Simple Stitch (TSS) — smooth, vertical bars
- Tunisian Purl Stitch (TPS) — deeper, recessed purl-like ridges
When you work these stitches in structured blocks, they create an illusion of woven squares, just like a traditional basketweave motif found in knitting or woodworking.
The best part? If you already know how to work the simple stitch and the purl stitch in Tunisian crochet, you can make this texture right away. Even if you’re newer to the craft, the learning curve is very gentle.
Is the Tunisian Basketweave Stitch Good for Beginners?
Absolutely — as long as you can work the Tunisian simple stitch and the Tunisian purl stitch, you can make this! The stitch pattern is repetitive and predictable, making it great for practicing:
- Hook rhythm
- Tension control
- Reading Tunisian crochet textures
- Working with live loops on the hook
It’s also a fantastic “next step” after learning the basic stitches. You’ll feel like you’re leveling up your skills without taking on anything overwhelming.
Why You’ll Love This Stitch
The basketweave stitch has been around for ages, and that’s because it checks all the boxes for crocheters who want projects that are both fun to make and awesome to use. Here’s why this stitch deserves a spot in your regular rotation:
Incredible Texture Without Extra Effort
You get beautiful, dimensional texture that looks advanced, but the technique itself is totally beginner-friendly.
Works With So Many Yarns and Projects
Use it for cozy blankets, squishy scarves, sturdy bags, decorative pillows, and more. The repetitive pattern also makes it great for mindful stitching sessions.
Warm and Dense (But Still Super Cozy!)
Because Tunisian crochet naturally creates a thick, cushy fabric, basketweave takes that comfort to the next level. It’s ideal for fall and winter makes.
Perfect for Learning Tension Control
Switching between simple and purl stitches helps you naturally improve your tension and rhythm in Tunisian crochet.
A Dream for Solid Colors
While you can use variegated yarns, this stitch really shines in solids and tonals. The texture does all the work!
Project Ideas
One of the reasons this stitch is so beloved is because of how exceptionally versatile it is. You can use it for practical home décor, stylish accessories, cozy wearables, or even high-stitch-count heirloom pieces.
Here are some project ideas to spark your creativity:
Scarves & Cowls
The squishy texture feels amazing around the neck and adds warmth without feeling bulky.
Pillows & Home Décor
Textured pillow fronts, cushion covers, table mats, and coasters all stand out beautifully in basketweave.
Storage Baskets or Trays
This stitch gives structure, which is exactly what you want for baskets, bins, or catch-all trays.
Blankets & Throws
The thicker fabric lends itself perfectly to afghans. You can work the basketweave in wide sections or pair it with other Tunisian stitches for a sampler effect.
Bags & Totes
Use this stitch to add durability and shape to purses, market bags, or zippered pouches.
Winter Wear
Think mittens, handwarmers, earwarmers, or hats—anything that benefits from added warmth and texture.
No matter what you’re making, the basketweave stitch adds character and charm without a lot of extra work.
Yarn and Hook Pairings
Because this stitch creates a dense, structured fabric, yarn selection matters. Here are some options that pair beautifully with basketweave:
Worsted Weight (Category 4)
Perfect for blankets, home décor, and accessories. The texture shows up clearly and works up at an easy pace.
Bulky & Super Bulky Weight
Looking for quick, satisfying makes? Chunky yarn turns basketweave into the ultimate cozy experience.
Cotton Yarn
Ideal for dishcloths, hand towels, trivets, and baskets. Cotton holds structure and highlights the texture sharply.
Wool or Wool Blends
These fibers bloom slightly with blocking, enhancing the woven look and making the fabric even more plush.
Tweeds & Neutrals
Want that classic rustic feel? Tweeds and earthy tones make the stitch look traditional and homey.
Avoid heavily variegated yarns if you want the basketweave pattern to be the star — the color changes may distract from the texture.
Does it Curl?
One of the best things about the Tunisian Basketweave Stitch is that it naturally resists curling. Because this pattern alternates between the Tunisian Simple Stitch and Tunisian Purl Stitch in structured blocks, the opposing textures help balance the fabric and keep the edges flatter than many other Tunisian crochet stitches. Blocking is still helpful if you need to perfect the shape or match specific measurements — especially for squares that will be joined together — but it’s completely optional if your piece is already lying flat and the size is accurate. This makes basketweave an excellent choice for beginners who want to skip the extra finishing steps and jump right into using their project.
How to get the Tunisian Basketweave Stitch pattern:
Tunisian Basketweave Stitch Square Pattern
Option 1: Continue scrolling for free pattern instructions on this site
Option 2: Get the PDF download free through November 2025!
Option 3: Purchase the ad-free PDF that includes tutorial photos from one of my shops
What materials are needed for the afghan square?
If you’re following along with the 2025 New Year New Stitch CAL, we’re making afghan squares to assemble into a blanket at the end of the year. The Tunisian Basketweave Stitch is the November stitch. For this afghan square you will need worsted weight yarn and a K/10.5/6.50mm Tunisian Crochet Hook. I am using 100% acrylic yarn and since I’m making 6″ squares, I am also able to use a traditional crochet hook.
Let’s learn the Tunisian Basketweave Stitch:
Materials
Worsted Weight Yarn (#4)
- 6” = .6oz/25yds
- 12” = 2.7oz/135yds
- 15” = 4.3oz/220yds
Gauge
14 sts x 16 rows = 4”
Finished Measurements
Block to 6”(12”,15”)
Stitch Guide
BO = See Special Stitches
ch = chain
TSS = See Special Stitches
TPS = See Special Stitches
sl st(s) = slip stitch(es)
YO = Yarn Over
Skill Level
Confident Beginner
PATTERN WRITTEN IN U.S. TERMS
Pattern Notes
- This square is worked from bottom to top.
- Where asterisks appear, repeat the instructions between them.
- This pattern is worked in multiples of 8 + 6 ; the instructions are written for a beginning ch-22 for a 6” square, ch-46 for a 12” square, and ch-54 for a 15” square.
- To work a gauge swatch, chain 22 then work pattern below for 16 total rows.
Special Stitches
Tunisian Simple Stitch (TSS) = Insert hook from right to left under the front vertical bar of stitch, yarn over, pull back under vertical bar.
Tunisian Purl Stitch (TPS) = Bring yarn to front of project and insert hook from right to left under the front vertical bar of the stitch, then bring yarn tail back up and behind the hook, yarn over, pull yarn through vertical bar.
TSS Bind Off (Bind Off) = Insert hook from right to left under the front vertical bar of stitch, yarn over, pull back under vertical bar and through the loop on the hook (i.e. slip stitch): *skip 1st TSS, TSS in next, TSS in skipped stitch* across.
Instructions
R1.
Forward Pass: Working in the back bump of the chain across:
Ch 22(44,54), insert hook in 2nd ch from hook, yarn over, draw up a loop, *insert hook in next ch, yarn over, draw up a loop* across
Return Pass: Yarn over, pull through 1 loop on hook, *YO, pull through 2 loops on hook* across until one loop remains
R2.
Forward Pass: [1st loop on hook counts as 1st st, so skip 1st vertical bar]: 4 TSS, *4 TPS, 4 TSS* across to last stitch, for last stitch place hook under both front and back vertical bars, YO, pull through both loops
Return Pass: Yarn over, pull through 1 loop on hook, *YO, pull through 2 loops on hook* across until one loop remains
R3-4. Repeat R2 (Fwd & Rtn Pass)
R5. Forward Pass: [1st loop on hook counts as 1st st, so skip 1st vertical bar]: 4 TPS, *4 TSS, 4 TPS* across to last stitch, for last stitch place hook under both front and back vertical bars, YO, pull through both loops
Return Pass: Yarn over, pull through 1 loop on hook, *YO, pull through 2 loops on hook* across until one loop remains
R6-8. Repeat R5 (Fwd & Rtn Pass)
R9. Forward Pass: [1st loop on hook counts as 1st st, so skip 1st vertical bar]: 4 TSS, *4 TPS, 4 TSS* across to last stitch, for last stitch place hook under both front and back vertical bars, YO, pull through both loops
Return Pass: Yarn over, pull through 1 loop on hook, *YO, pull through 2 loops on hook* across until one loop remains
R10-12. Repeat R9 (Fwd & Rtn Pass)
R13-20. Repeat R5-12 (Fwd & Rtn Pass)
R21. Bind off; Fasten.
TUNISIAN SIMPLE STITCH
TUNISIAN PURL STITCH
Finishing
- Block to 6” x 6” (12” x 12”, 15” x 15”) as needed.
- Hide all strings.
And that’s how you work the Tunisian Basketweave Stitch!
Happy Tunisian Crocheting!
Written pattern and photographs © 2025 Sonya Blackstone of Blackstone Designs. Do not sell, share, or modify this pattern, but instead share the link to where the pattern can be found. You may sell items you make with this pattern. This pattern, as with all Blackstone Designs/Sonya Blackstone patterns, are not for educational use without written permission from the designer. All rights reserved.
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