Tunisian crochet is loved for its rich texture and woven appearance, but anyone who has tried working on larger projects knows it can quickly become uncomfortable with a straight hook. Blankets feel heavy, stitches crowd the shaft, and wrist fatigue sets in fast. That’s where Tunisian crochet hooks with cables truly shine. Designed to support long rows and large stitch counts, these hooks make Tunisian crocheting smoother, lighter, and far more enjoyable, especially for ambitious projects.
In this blog, we’ll explore what a Tunisian crochet hook with cable is, how it works, why it’s worth using, and how to choose the right set for your projects.
What Is a Tunisian Crochet Hook With a Cable?
A Tunisian crochet hook with a cable combines a traditional Tunisian hook head with a flexible cord attached to the end. Instead of forcing all your stitches to sit on a rigid shaft, the cable safely holds them as you work.
This Design Allows You to:
- Accommodate hundreds of stitches comfortably
- Reduce strain on your wrist and hand
- Maintain even tension across long rows
At Lantern Moon, interchangeable Tunisian crochet hooks are available with 24", 32", and 40" cables, making them ideal for everything from scarves to full-size afghans. Sets like the Bequest Tunisian Crochet Hook Set are especially popular for their smooth joins and balanced feel.
Why Use a Cable Tunisian Crochet Hook?
Once you try a cabled hook, it’s hard to go back. The benefits go far beyond convenience.
Key Advantages:
- Reduced wrist fatigue
- The cable carries the weight of your stitches, not your hand.
- Better stitch control
- No more cramming loops onto a crowded hook shaft.
- Consistent tension
- Stitches rest naturally on the cable, helping maintain uniform rows.
- Perfect for large projects
- Ideal for blankets, wraps, shawls, and sweaters.
- Interchangeable flexibility
- With a Tunisian crochet hook set, you can swap hook sizes and cable lengths to suit any pattern.
If you’re new to the technique, you may find it helpful to first explore our Tunisian Crochet Basics blog before diving into larger projects.
How Does a Cabled Tunisian Crochet Hook Work?
The working principle is simple and intuitive. You use the hook head just like a standard Tunisian hook to pick up loops on the forward pass.
Instead of holding all loops on the hook shaft, they slide effortlessly onto the cable.
On the return pass, stitches move smoothly back toward the hook, allowing you to work comfortably across long rows.
Premium sets like the Lantern Moon Bequest Collection are engineered so stitches glide easily across the cable join, preventing snags—even with delicate or hand-dyed yarns.
Step-by-Step: How to Use a Tunisian Crochet Hook With a Cable
If you’re new to cabled hooks, follow these steps to get started:
1. Choose Your Hook and Cable: Select a hook size appropriate for your yarn and attach the desired cable length if using an interchangeable set.
2. Create a Foundation Chain: Work your foundation chain as you would in regular crochet.
3. Forward Pass - Pick Up Loops: Insert the hook into each chain, yarn over (YO), and pull up a loop.
Let the Loops Slide Onto the Cable as You Go:
1. Return Pass - Work Loops Off: Yarn over and pull through loops according to your stitch pattern (e.g., Tunisian Simple Stitch or Knit Stitch).
2. Continue Row by Row: The cable accommodates growing stitch counts without straining your hands.
3. Bind Off as Usual: Once complete, bind off normally—the cable helps prevent edge distortion.
Compared to straight hooks, this method feels noticeably lighter and more fluid, especially on wide projects.
Single-Ended vs Double-Ended Tunisian Crochet Hooks
Not all Tunisian hooks are the same. Here’s how they differ:
Single-Ended Hooks with Cables
- Best for flat Tunisian crochet
- One active hook, cable holds stitches
Double-Ended Tunisian Crochet Hooks
- Ideal for working in the round
- Useful for two-color patterns
- Allows crocheting from both ends alternately
For most beginners and flat projects, a single-ended interchangeable set is the best starting point.
How to Choose the Right Tunisian Crochet Hook Set With Cable
If you plan to explore Tunisian crochet seriously, a complete hook set offers the best value and versatility.
What to Look For:
- Smooth, secure connectors
- Prevent snagging, especially with luxury or hand-dyed yarns.
- Comfortable grip
- Essential for long crochet sessions.
Material Choice:
- Wooden hooks (like Lantern Moon) feel warm and gentle
- Metal or laminated birch hooks (such as KnitPro Dreamz) offer durability and a smooth glide
- Storage case
- Keeps hooks and cables organized and travel-friendly.
Tips for Working with a Tunisian Crochet Cable Hook
Tunisian crocheting has a few tricks and tips:
- Always check that the cable is securely attached before starting
- Use swivel cables if available to prevent twisting
- Wipe metal hooks occasionally to improve yarn glide
- Beginners should start with lighter yarns
- Focus on maintaining even yarn tension
Projects Perfect for Cabled Tunisian Crochet Hooks
Thanks to their flexibility, these hooks are ideal for:
- Chunky blankets and Afghans
- Gradient shawls and wraps
- Tunisian lace scarves
- Colorwork throws
- Sweaters with dense or textured stitch patterns
For inspiration, explore our Tunisian Crochet Project Ideas blog section.
Final Thoughts
If you love Tunisian crochet but struggle with heavy or oversized projects, switching to a Tunisian crochet hook with a cable can completely transform your experience.
With better weight distribution, smoother stitch flow, and varying cable lengths, these hooks make large-scale creativity comfortable and enjoyable.
Choose a Tunisian crochet hook set that suits your style, pair it with your favorite yarn, and enjoy the freedom to create without limits.
For more tips, tutorials, and inspiration, explore our latest blogs on Tunisian crochet and beyond.