The Woven Sand Dune Scarf: A Free Crochet Pattern for the Tunisian Extended Stitch
The Woven Sand Dune Scarf: A Free Crochet Pattern for the Tunisian Extended Stitch
Explore the unique texture of the Tunisian extended stitch with this modern, drapey scarf pattern. Its subtle wave-like ridges create a sophisticated, handcrafted look perfect for any season. The Woven Sand Dune Scarf is a beginner-friendly Tunisian crochet project that introduces you to the Tunisian Extended Stitch (Tss-ext), a taller, more drapey variation of the classic Tunisian Simple Stitch. Worked lengthwise in alternating three-row stripes of two contrasting colors, this scarf mimics the gentle, wind-swept ridges of sand dunes. The result is a minimalist, elegant accessory that feels luxurious and looks effortlessly chic. Whether you're new to Tunisian crochet or looking for a relaxing, rhythmic project, this pattern will guide you step-by-step to create a stunning, textured scarf.
Materials Needed
- Yarn: Worsted weight (Category 4) yarn in two contrasting colors:
- Color A (Main): 300 yards (sample uses soft heather gray)
- Color B (Contrast): 200 yards (sample uses warm terracotta)
- Hook: Size J/10 (6.0 mm) Tunisian crochet hook with a 12-inch cord or longer. A standard crochet hook of the same size for the border.
- Other: Yarn needle for weaving in ends, scissors.
Gauge
14 stitches and 12 rows in Tunisian Extended Stitch = 4 inches (10 cm). Gauge is important for drape; adjust hook size if needed.
Abbreviations (US terms)
- ch: chain
- Tss: Tunisian Simple Stitch (insert hook under the front vertical bar, yarn over, pull up a loop)
- Tss-ext: Tunisian Extended Stitch (insert hook under the front vertical bar, yarn over, pull up a loop, yarn over, pull through one loop on hook, yarn over, pull through two loops on hook)
- yo: yarn over
- sl st: slip stitch
- sc: single crochet
Special Stitch: Tunisian Extended Stitch (Tss-ext)
Insert hook under the front vertical bar of the next stitch, yo, pull up a loop (2 loops on hook), yo, pull through one loop (2 loops on hook), yo, pull through two loops (1 loop on hook). This creates a taller stitch than the standard Tunisian Simple Stitch, giving the fabric more drape and a subtle, elongated texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Foundation Row (with Color A)
Chain 25. (This will be the width of your scarf. Adjust for a wider or narrower scarf, keeping an odd number of chains for symmetry.)
Row 1 (Forward Pass - Color A)
Insert hook into the second chain from the hook, yo, pull up a loop. Repeat in each chain across. You will have 25 loops on your hook.
Row 1 (Return Pass - Color A)
Yo, pull through one loop (this is the edge stitch). *Yo, pull through two loops* repeat from * to * until one loop remains on the hook. This completes the row.
Row 2 (Forward Pass - Color A)
Skip the first vertical bar (the edge stitch). Work a Tss-ext in each of the next 24 vertical bars. You will have 25 loops on your hook.
Row 2 (Return Pass - Color A)
Yo, pull through one loop. *Yo, pull through two loops* repeat from * to * until one loop remains.
Row 3 (Forward Pass - Color A)
Repeat Row 2: Skip the first vertical bar, work a Tss-ext in each of the next 24 vertical bars. You will have 25 loops on your hook.
Row 3 (Return Pass - Color A)
Repeat Row 2 return pass: Yo, pull through one loop. *Yo, pull through two loops* repeat from * to * until one loop remains.
Row 4 (Forward Pass - Color B)
Attach Color B with a slip stitch to the first vertical bar. Work a Tss-ext in each of the next 24 vertical bars. You will have 25 loops on your hook.
Row 4 (Return Pass - Color B)
Yo, pull through one loop. *Yo, pull through two loops* repeat from * to * until one loop remains.
Row 5 (Forward Pass - Color B)
Work a Tss-ext in each of the next 24 vertical bars. You will have 25 loops on your hook.
Row 5 (Return Pass - Color B)
Yo, pull through one loop. *Yo, pull through two loops* repeat from * to * until one loop remains.
Row 6 (Forward Pass - Color B)
Repeat Row 5: Work a Tss-ext in each of the next 24 vertical bars. You will have 25 loops on your hook.
Row 6 (Return Pass - Color B)
Repeat Row 5 return pass: Yo, pull through one loop. *Yo, pull through two loops* repeat from * to * until one loop remains.
Repeat for Pattern
Continue alternating colors: 3 rows of Color A (Rows 2-3 repeated), then 3 rows of Color B (Rows 4-6 repeated). Repeat until the scarf measures approximately 60 inches (152 cm) from the foundation chain, or desired length. End with a Color A section.
Final Row (Bind Off - Color A)
Work a slip stitch in each vertical bar across. Fasten off and weave in ends.
Border (Optional but recommended)
Using a standard crochet hook and Color A, work a round of single crochet evenly around the entire scarf. At each corner, work 3 sc in the same stitch. Join with a sl st to the first sc. Fasten off and weave in all ends.
Your Woven Sand Dune Scarf is complete! The subtle wave-like ridges and sophisticated color contrast create a modern, textured accessory that's perfect for any season. Enjoy your handmade masterpiece!
