Mastering Crochet Stitches for Athleisure Wear: Mesh, Ribbing, and Tunisian Crochet

Crochet is an art that allows for endless creativity, and mastering different stitches can elevate your projects. In this guide, we'll explore Mesh Stitch, Ribbing Stitch, and Tunisian Crochet, three versatile techniques that create a structured yet flexible design. These stitches will add texture and elegance to your work.

What You’ll Learn

• Mesh Stitch: Lightweight and breathable stitch ideal for garments and accessories.

• Ribbing Stitch: Provides elasticity, perfect for cuffs, hems, and snug-fit designs.

• Tunisian Crochet: A hybrid between knitting and crochet, offering a dense and stylish fabric.

These stitches are widely used in athleisure crochet, a trending style that blends comfort and fashion.

1. How to Crochet Mesh Stitch

Mesh stitch is an airy, openwork stitch commonly used for summer tops, shawls, and market bags.

Materials Needed:

• Any yarn of your choice

• Matching crochet hook

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Foundation Chain: Chain any even number of stitches.

2. Row 1: Single crochet in the second chain from the hook, chain 1, skip 1 stitch, single crochet in the next stitch. Repeat across. Turn.

3. Row 2: Chain 1, single crochet in the first stitch, chain 1, skip 1 stitch, single crochet in the next stitch. Repeat across. Turn.

4. Continue repeating Row 2 until your desired length is achieved.

5. Finish Off: Fasten off and weave in ends.

   
   

✅ Tip: Use a larger hook size for a more open and lacy effect.

2. How to Crochet Ribbing Stitch

Ribbing adds stretch and texture, commonly used for cuffs, neckbands, and fitted garments.

Materials Needed:

• Medium-weight yarn (works best for ribbing)

• Crochet hook suitable for your yarn

  
  

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Foundation Chain: Chain an odd number of stitches.

2. Row 1: Half double crochet in the second chain from the hook and each stitch across. Turn.

3. Row 2: Front post half double crochet (FPHDC) in the first stitch, back post half double crochet (BPHDC) in the next stitch. Repeat across. Turn.

4. Row 3 and Beyond: Continue alternating FPHDC and BPHDC to maintain the ribbing pattern.

5. Fasten off and weave in ends.

   
   

✅ Tip: Use stretchy yarn for ribbing that holds its shape over time.

3. How to Crochet Tunisian Crochet (Basic Stitch)

Tunisian crochet creates a dense, knit-like fabric, perfect for structured designs like sweaters, bags, and blankets.

Materials Needed:

• Tunisian crochet hook (longer than a regular hook)

• Any yarn type

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Foundation Row: Chain your desired number of stitches.

2. Forward Pass: Insert the hook into the second chain, yarn over, and pull up a loop. Repeat across without completing any stitches.

3. Return Pass: Yarn over, pull through one loop, then yarn over and pull through two loops at a time until one loop remains.

4. Next Rows: Insert the hook under the front vertical bar of each stitch, pull up a loop, and repeat the forward and return pass.

5. Finishing: Bind off by slip stitching across the row to create a clean edge.

   
   

✅ Tip: Use a Tunisian hook with a cable for larger projects like blankets.

These three stitches—Mesh Stitch, Ribbing Stitch, and Tunisian Crochet—are essential techniques that can transform your crochet projects. Whether you're designing athleisure wear, stylish accessories, or cozy blankets, mastering these stitches will take your skills to the next level.

Ready to Try These Stitches?

If you found this guide helpful, share it with fellow crocheters! Have questions? Drop them in the comments below! 🧶✨

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