A Tunisian crochet hook set includes longer hooks with a stopper at the end, built to hold many loops at once for Tunisian, also called Afghan, stitch work. I switched to a dedicated Tunisian set after trying the technique with a regular hook and losing loops off the end constantly.
Why the shaft length matters
A regular hook holds only one or two loops, but Tunisian stitches build up a full row of loops on the shaft before working back across. The stopper at the end of a Tunisian hook keeps those loops from sliding off, which is exactly what a standard hook lacks.
What to look for in a set
- Shaft length: longer shafts handle wider projects without needing a cable extension.
- Cable option: some sets include an interchangeable cable for very wide pieces like blankets.
- Size range: confirm it covers the mm sizes your patterns actually call for.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a regular hook for Tunisian crochet?
Not well for anything beyond a narrow swatch, since regular hooks have no stopper and loops will slide off the open end. That’s been my own experience with it too.
Do I need a cable for Tunisian crochet?
Only for wide projects like blankets. A fixed-length hook works fine for scarves and smaller pieces without needing the extra cable. I’ve found this holds true in my own experience.
See our full crochet hook set buying guide
Compare Tunisian sets against standard and ergonomic sets.