Learn Tunisian Crochet: Face Scrubbies Tutorial
Table of Contents:
- Introduction
- Materials Needed
- Making a Magic Circle
- Starting the Circle
- Creating Tunisian Simple Stitches
- Working the Short Rows
- Continuing the Rows
- Finishing the Circle
- Sewing the Two Sides Together
- Weaving in the Ends
- Alternative Uses for the Face Scrubbies
- Conclusion
Article
Introduction
In this tutorial, we will learn how to make cute and soft face scrubbies using Tunisian crochet stitches. These face scrubbies are perfect for removing makeup or washing your face due to their softness and drapery. We will go through the step-by-step process of creating these scrubbies, from starting with a magic circle to sewing the two sides together. So let's gather our materials and get started!
Materials Needed
To make these face scrubbies, you will need the following materials:
- Cotton yarn: Choose a basic cotton yarn that is not too twisted and shiny. You can use one color or two colors for different sides.
- Crochet hook: A six-millimeter hook or something close to it is recommended for Tunisian crochet.
- Scissors: For cutting the yarn.
- Tapestry needle: To finish off the piece and weave in the ends.
Now that we have our materials ready, we can move on to making a magic circle.
Making a Magic Circle
To start the face scrubbies, we will make a magic circle. This technique creates a neat and tight circle to work around. Follow these steps:
- Hold the yarn in your hand, leaving a long enough tail.
- Create a loop by crossing the tail end over the working yarn.
- Insert your crochet hook through the loop, yarn over, and pull through to create a slipknot.
- Chain one inside the magic circle.
With the magic circle ready, let's move on to starting the circle.
Starting the Circle
- Make eight single crochet stitches inside the magic circle. Be careful not to pull too tightly on the tail to maintain loose tension.
- Once you have eight single crochet stitches, pull on the loop of the magic circle to close it.
- Slip stitch into the first single crochet to join the round.
Now that we have the circle started, let's proceed to creating Tunisian simple stitches.
Creating Tunisian Simple Stitches
Tunisian simple stitches are the main stitches used in this pattern. They create a textured and soft fabric. Follow these steps to create Tunisian simple stitches:
- Chain five loosely (to maintain loose tension).
- Insert your hook from side to side under the back bumps of the five chains, picking up a loop in each chain.
- In the same stitch that you started from, insert your hook and pick up another loop.
- Yarn over and pull through two loops on the hook until you have one loop left on the hook.
- This completes the first row of Tunisian simple stitches.
Now that we have the first row, let's move on to working the short rows.
Working the Short Rows
Short rows are rows that do not have any stitches in the foundation. They create texture and shape in the scrubbies. Follow these steps to work the short rows:
- Pick up four loops, maintaining loose tension.
- Yarn over and pull through two loops until you have one loop left on the hook.
- This completes a short row of Tunisian simple stitches.
- Repeat steps 1-3 for the desired number of short rows.
Now that we have the short rows done, let's continue with the regular rows.
Continuing the Rows
To continue with the regular rows, follow these steps:
- Pick up five loops in the first three stitches of the previous row.
- Pick up the bottom loop of the first row (foundation row).
- Yarn over and pull through two loops until you have one loop left on the hook.
- Continue picking up loops and pulling through until you reach the foundation.
- Insert the hook into the second single crochet stitch from the foundation row and pick up three loops.
- Pick up the fourth and fifth loops in the foundation row.
- Pick up the last stitch in the second single crochet.
- Continue this pattern all around until you have the desired number of stitches (usually 32 stitches).
With the regular rows completed, let's move on to finishing the circle.
Finishing the Circle
- Complete the remaining rows until you have reached the desired height of the scrubbies. Be sure to count your stitches to ensure you have the correct number.
- Cut the yarn, leaving a long enough tail to sew the two sides together.
- Weave in the first tail to create a neat front edge.
Now that we have finished the circle, let's proceed to sewing the two sides together.
Sewing the Two Sides Together
To sew the two sides of the scrubbies together, follow these steps:
- Slip stitch into the top of the last stitch and pull up a long loop.
- Use a tapestry needle to thread the tail through and bring it to the front through one of the stitches.
- Start uniting the horizontal bars created by the Tunisian simple stitches to hide the sides.
- Begin with the first horizontal bar and go up to the corresponding horizontal bar on the other side.
- Repeat this process for the remaining horizontal bars all around.
- Pull the loops to ensure a secure join.
- Weave in the end by going back and forth with the needle through the stitches to secure it.
- Cut off the excess yarn.
With the two sides sewn together, let's move on to weaving in the ends.
Weaving in the Ends
To weave in the ends of the scrubbies, follow these steps:
- Take the second piece and face it together with the first piece, ensuring they are not perfectly aligned on the join.
- Use a crochet hook to make slip stitches, inserting the hook through one stitch on each piece and pulling the yarn through.
- Continue slip stitching all around the scrubbies, being careful not to pull too tightly.
- Cut off the tail and use an invisible slip stitch to finish off the join.
- Weave in the end by going back and forth through the stitches with a tapestry needle.
- Cut off the excess yarn.
Alternative Uses for the Face Scrubbies
Aside from using the face scrubbies for makeup removal and face washing, there are other creative ways to utilize them. Consider the following:
- Coasters: Due to their thickness, the scrubbies can also function as coasters. Simply use a single layer instead of two.
- Decorations: Add decorative edges or embellishments to the scrubbies to make them unique and personalized.
- Gift Packaging: Create several scrubbies and package them nicely for a thoughtful and practical gift option.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have successfully made your own soft and cute face scrubbies using Tunisian crochet stitches. These versatile scrubbies can serve multiple purposes and make great gifts. Remember to experiment with colors and patterns to customize your creations. Thank you for following this tutorial, and we hope to see you again for more fun crochet projects!