Stained Glass Tunisian Sweater Free Pattern – A Mosaic of Light and Wool

Wrap yourself in a tapestry of jewel-toned diamonds and warm neutrals, where every Tunisian stitch captures the glow of a cathedral window. This cozy, oversized sweater is a wearable work of art, perfect for slow, mindful crafting. The Stained Glass Tunisian Sweater combines the meditative rhythm of Tunisian crochet with a stunning mosaic pattern that evokes the beauty of stained glass. Whether you're a seasoned Tunisian crocheter or looking to expand your skills, this pattern offers a rewarding project that results in a truly unique, heirloom-quality garment.

Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the following materials to ensure a smooth and enjoyable crafting experience:

• Yarn: Worsted weight yarn in 5 colors:
  • A (Warm Cream) – for the base and edging
  • B (Deep Sapphire)
  • C (Amethyst)
  • D (Emerald)
  • E (Garnet)
  Approximately 1200-1500 yards total (adjust based on your size).
• Hook: Tunisian crochet hook size 6.5mm (US K) with a 16-inch cable, plus a standard crochet hook size 5.5mm for edging.
• Other: Stitch markers, yarn needle for weaving in ends, and a tape measure.

Gauge

14 Tunisian simple stitches and 12 rows = 4 inches (10 cm) in pattern. Always check your gauge before starting to ensure the correct fit.

Step-by-Step Instructions

This sweater is worked in panels from the bottom up, then seamed. The mosaic pattern is created using Tunisian crochet in the round for the body and flat for the sleeves. All pieces are worked with a combination of Tunisian Simple Stitch (TSS) and Tunisian Full Stitch (TFS) to create the stained glass effect.

Abbreviations

• TSS: Tunisian Simple Stitch
• TFS: Tunisian Full Stitch
• TKS: Tunisian Knit Stitch
• ch: chain
• st: stitch
• yo: yarn over
• sl st: slip stitch
• RS: right side
• WS: wrong side

Special Stitch – Mosaic Diamond (worked over 2 rows)

Row 1 (RS): *TSS in next 2 sts, TFS in next 2 sts* repeat to end.
Row 2 (WS): *TFS in next 2 sts, TSS in next 2 sts* repeat to end.
This creates a checkerboard-like diamond texture that mimics the facets of stained glass.

BODY (worked in the round to underarm)

Step 1: With color A, chain 160. Join with a slip stitch to form a ring, being careful not to twist the chain.

Step 2: Round 1: Work TSS in each chain around. (160 sts)

Step 3: Round 2: Work TKS in each stitch around.

Step 4: Begin the mosaic pattern: Work 4 rounds of Mosaic Diamond in colors B, C, D, E (one color per round pair). This means you'll work 2 rounds in color B, then 2 rounds in color C, then 2 in D, then 2 in E.

Step 5: Continue alternating colors every 4 rounds (2 rounds per color), using the Mosaic Diamond pattern, until the body measures 14 inches from the cast-on edge.

Step 6: Divide for armholes: Place a marker after 80 sts. Work 2 rows flat on the first 80 sts for the front, then leave those sts on a holder. Work 2 rows flat on the back 80 sts.

Step 7: Continue working each side separately in the mosaic pattern for 8 more inches, then bind off loosely.

SLEEVES (worked flat, then seamed)

Step 1: With color A, chain 40.

Step 2: Row 1: Work TSS in each chain. (40 sts)

Step 3: Row 2: Work TKS in each stitch.

Step 4: Begin the mosaic pattern, increasing 1 stitch at each end every 6 rows by working 2 TSS in the first and last stitch. Continue until the sleeve measures 18 inches, ending with 60 sts.

Step 5: Bind off loosely.

FINISHING

Step 1: Seam the shoulders and sides using a whip stitch with color A.

Step 2: Sew in the sleeves, matching the underarm seams.

Step 3: Edging: With the standard crochet hook and color A, work 1 round of single crochet around the neckline, cuffs, and bottom hem. Then work 1 round of reverse single crochet (crab stitch) for a neat, polished edge.

Step 4: Weave in all ends. Block gently to shape, laying flat to dry.

Pro Tips for Success

• Maintain Tension: Tunisian crochet can pull in, so keep your tension relaxed and consistent, especially when working in the round.
• Color Changes: When changing colors, carry the unused yarn loosely up the side or weave it in as you go to avoid bulky seams.
• Blocking is Key: Blocking will open up the mosaic pattern and give your sweater that beautiful, even drape. Don't skip this step!

This Stained Glass Tunisian Sweater is more than just a garment—it's a labor of love that will keep you warm and inspired for years to come. The combination of rich, jewel-toned colors and the textured mosaic stitch creates a piece that looks like it belongs in an art gallery. Enjoy the process, and don't hesitate to make it your own by experimenting with your favorite color combinations. Happy crocheting!