Tunisian Crochet

I thought it was about time I revealed my arm chair covers and cushions I have made. I admit they were finished about two weeks ago but they have fitted in so well to our living room decoration they have become part of the furniture.

I used the Tunisian crochet method to make these and it is really easy once you have been shown how. It is also the most therapeutic type of working with yarn I have encountered - this may be because it is very fast growing which has a great reward factor, or because its very easy.

I was also so excited because the hook was especially made by my teachers husband so it is really special to me.

I used a really simply stitch - I know there are probably hundred out there which I can't wait to explore, but even the simple stitch is really effective.

When people asked me what I was doing (and people do because its like knitting and crocheting all mixed together!) I said its Bonsian or Tunisian Crocheting aka Shepherd Knitting. When I said Shepherd Knitting it painted a vivid picture of a hot country with a shepherd boy sitting watching the sheep and killing time by knitting wool that his mother had just made from the sheep's coat.

I googled Shepherds Knitting and looked through the images and found some absolutely fascinating photos and drawings.

I wonder if the stilts were so the shepherds could see further.

Aren't the pictures amazing. It makes me feel that working with wool is the most authentic art form and we are all carrying on something that isn't just traditional but also is worldly and cultural.

Has anyone else had a go? Let me know if you have. I'd love to learn more!

Kate xxxx