# [Understand Tunisian passes](https://threadcabin.com/explore/235/understand-tunisian-passes)

> A basic Tunisian row includes a forward pass collecting loops and a return pass working them off. Count the edge loops as the selected stitch method specifies.

- Canonical page: https://threadcabin.com/explore/235/understand-tunisian-passes
- Language: en
- Published: 2026-09-25T17:26:34.1179491+00:00
- Updated: 2026-09-25T17:26:39.1301807+00:00
- Craft: Crochet
- Primary image: [Illustration: A Tunisian crochet panel with many live loops across a long hook, beside a finished scarf sample with a deliberately stabilized edge.](https://threadcabin.com/images/explore/focused/tunisian.jpg)

A basic Tunisian row includes a forward pass collecting loops and a return pass working them off. Count the edge loops as the selected stitch method specifies.

## Before you start

Confirm whether the instructions use US or UK terms. On a smooth-yarn sample, mark the first and last stitch and note whether the turning chain counts.

## How to do it

1. Foundation: chain 10. From the second chain, draw up one loop in each chain and keep every loop on a long enough hook. Including the original loop, there are 10 loops. Do not turn.
2. Return: yarn over and pull through one loop, then yarn over and pull through two repeatedly until one remains. For the next simple-stitch forward pass, skip the first vertical bar; pick up under each following front bar. At the far edge, catch both edge strands. Check 10 loops before each return.

## Try this example

On a ten-stitch trial, record ten loops at the end of the forward pass, including the starting loop when instructed. Check that the return leaves one working loop.

## Check your result

- Count stitch tops separately from chain spaces and compare successive row or round totals. Lay the sample down without stretching it to inspect the shape.
- A symbol or familiar stitch name does not supply a complete construction. Use the project’s own counts, turning rules and joining instructions.

## Sources

- [www.yarnspirations.com: tunisian crochet ultimate beginners guide](https://www.yarnspirations.com/blogs/how-to/tunisian-crochet-ultimate-beginners-guide)
- [stitchdiva.com: tutorials](https://stitchdiva.com/pages/tutorials)
- [media.craftyarncouncil.com: CYC_CIP_Crochet_Program_2017.pdf](https://media.craftyarncouncil.com/files/CIP/CYC_CIP_Crochet_Program_2017.pdf)

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## Sources and provenance

- [Reading crochet charts: symbols, rows, rounds, and repeats](https://threadcabin.com/explore/4/reading-crochet-charts-symbols-rows-rounds-and-repeats)
- [Manage Tunisian edges and curl](https://threadcabin.com/explore/236/manage-tunisian-edges-and-curl)
- [Crochet loop placement changes texture and movement](https://threadcabin.com/explore/12/crochet-loop-placement-changes-texture-and-movement)