Crochet and knitting are two distinct fiber arts, but did you know that certain crochet stitches can mimic the look of knitting? Whether you love the classic stockinette stitch look of knitting or want to create ribbed, stretchy fabrics, several crochet techniques can achieve similar results.
One of the best ways to create knit-like crochet fabric is through Tunisian crochet, a hybrid technique that bridges the gap between crochet and knitting. In this article, we’ll explore crochet stitches that look like knitting, how to achieve them, and tips for mastering these techniques.
Why Choose Crochet Stitches That Look Like Knitting?
✔️ Best of Both Worlds – Enjoy the speed of crochet with the classic look of knitting.
✔️ No Need for Knitting Needles – Perfect for crocheters who prefer a hook over needles.
✔️ Create Stretchy, Warm Fabrics – Knit-like crochet stitches are great for sweaters, scarves, and hats.
✔️ Tighter Weave, Less Gaps – Unlike traditional crochet, these stitches create a dense, smooth fabric.
Now, let’s dive into the best crochet stitches that mimic knitting!
Tunisian Crochet: The Best Crochet Technique for a Knitted Look
Tunisian crochet, also called Afghan crochet, is a unique method that uses a long crochet hook to create stitches that resemble knitting. Unlike traditional crochet, you keep multiple loops on the hook (similar to knitting) before working them off in a second pass.
Here are some Tunisian crochet stitches that closely resemble knitting:
1️⃣ Tunisian Simple Stitch (TSS) – Looks Like Stockinette Knit
🔹 Best for: Sweaters, scarves, and blankets.
🔹 Knit-Like Appearance: Looks very similar to the knit stockinette stitch.
🔹 How to Crochet:
- Insert the hook under the front vertical bar of the stitch.
- Yarn over and pull up a loop. Keep the loop on the hook.
- Repeat across the row, then work a return pass.
💡 Tip: TSS fabric curls like stockinette knit, so add a border to prevent rolling!
2️⃣ Tunisian Knit Stitch (TKS) – The Most Knit-Like Crochet Stitch
🔹 Best for: Creating the exact look of knitting in crochet.
🔹 Knit-Like Appearance: Looks exactly like knit stockinette fabric.
🔹 How to Crochet:
- Insert the hook through the center of the stitch (between the two vertical bars).
- Yarn over and pull up a loop. Keep loops on the hook.
- Repeat across the row, then work a return pass.
💡 Tip: TKS creates a dense, warm fabric perfect for winter wear!
3️⃣ Tunisian Purl Stitch (TPS) – Mimics Purl Knitting
🔹 Best for: Adding textured “purl” rows to Tunisian crochet projects.
🔹 Knit-Like Appearance: Looks just like purl stitches in knitting.
🔹 How to Crochet:
- Bring the yarn to the front of your work.
- Insert the hook under the front vertical bar.
- Yarn over and pull up a loop. Keep loops on the hook.
- Repeat across the row, then work a return pass.
💡 Tip: Combine Tunisian Knit Stitch and Tunisian Purl Stitch to create ribbing patterns, just like knitting!
Traditional Crochet Stitches That Look Like Knitting
If you don’t want to use Tunisian crochet, you can still create knit-like textures with regular crochet techniques!
4️⃣ Waistcoat Stitch (Knit Stitch in Crochet)
🔹 Best for: Hats, sweaters, and stretchy garments.
🔹 Knit-Like Appearance: Looks exactly like the knit stockinette stitch.
🔹 How to Crochet:
- Work single crochet stitches, but insert the hook through the “V” of the stitch instead of the top loops.
- This forces the stitches to stack vertically, mimicking knit stitches.
💡 Tip: Use a loose tension to avoid stiffness, as this stitch can be tight!
5️⃣ Camel Stitch – Mimics Ribbed Knit Fabric
🔹 Best for: Hats, cowls, and cuffs that need stretch.
🔹 Knit-Like Appearance: Looks like knit ribbing.
🔹 How to Crochet:
- Work half-double crochet (HDC) in the third loop (behind the top two loops).
- This pushes the front loops forward, creating a smooth, knit-like texture.
💡 Tip: This stitch is perfect for ribbed hat brims or sweater cuffs!
6️⃣ Slip Stitch Crochet – Looks Like Knitted Fabric
🔹 Best for: Creating thin, drapey fabric like knitwear.
🔹 Knit-Like Appearance: Resembles knitted garter stitch.
🔹 How to Crochet:
- Work slip stitches in the back loop only (BLO).
- This creates a horizontal, stretchy knit-like fabric.
💡 Tip: This technique is slow but produces very stretchy, knit-like fabric!
How to Prevent Curling in Tunisian Crochet
Since Tunisian crochet stitches curl like stockinette knitting, use these tips to fix the issue:
✅ Use a larger hook size – This loosens the stitches and reduces curl.
✅ Add a border – Work a few rows of single crochet around the edges.
✅ Block your project – Steam blocking can help flatten curled edges.
✅ Use a combination of stitches – Mix in TPS or ribbing stitches to balance the tension.
FAQs About Knit-Like Crochet Stitches
Q: Can you make crochet look exactly like knitting?
A: Yes! Tunisian Knit Stitch (TKS) and Waistcoat Stitch look nearly identical to knit fabric.
Q: Do I need special tools for Tunisian crochet?
A: Yes, you need a Tunisian crochet hook, which is longer than a regular crochet hook.
Q: Is Tunisian crochet harder than regular crochet?
A: Tunisian crochet has a learning curve, but it’s easy once you get the hang of it!
Final Thoughts
If you love the look of knitting but prefer crocheting, these knit-like crochet stitches are a great solution! Whether using Tunisian crochet techniques or traditional crochet stitches, you can create stunning projects that look just like they were knitted.
So, which knit-like crochet stitch will you try first? 🧶✨