Crochet: a craft technique that is deeply appreciated by many and practiced on a daily or weekly basis. If you’d like to join this group of creative people (known as “crocheters”), be sure to read this blog first. After all, how do you choose the right Crochet Hook? Picking your perfect Crochet Hook can be a challenge, but somebody has to do it! So take advantage of all the info in this blog and pick up the Crochet Hook that will glide effortlessly through your next crochet project. :)
Which Crochet Hook should you use?
You don’t need much to crochet. Some wool, a Crochet Hook, and a pattern. That’s it! “So what difference does the choice of a Crochet Hook make?” I hear you ask. Well, a lot! :) That’s why we’ve put together a list of things to keep in mind when you’re buying your new Crochet Hook. Want to read along?
Thickness from the Crochet Hook
Large, chunky blankets or pot holders—there’s a difference! The finer the stitch and the yarn you use, the thinner the hook. So if you’re planning to crochet a new set of pot holders, go for a thinner Crochet Hook—think a 3.5 or 4 mm Crochet Hook. If you’re going to try your hand at making a chunky blanket for your lounge set, use a 6 mm Crochet Hook, for example. Have you found a nice yarn but aren’t sure what to make with it yet? The recommended hook size is often listed on the yarn label. That way, you’ll always choose the right size. Have you already found a pattern? Often, the choice has already been made for you, because patterns specify which size you need for that particular project. Are you a brand-new beginner in the world of crocheting? Then go for projects that use a slightly thicker Crochet Hook—it’ll save you a lot of fiddly work. Trust me!
Do you crochet loosely or tightly? How to determine your crochet tension
“How do you… crochet?” is a question often asked among creative types. If you’ve never held a crochet hook before, it’s hard to answer this question. So here’s the explanation: when you crochet, you make stitches. All those stitches together form your new blanket, scarf, or cuddly toy. Whether you make tight or loose stitches also depends on the thickness of the Crochet Hook. If the designer of the pattern you’ve chosen uses single crochets and you prefer a looser style, try using a Crochet Hook that’s half a size smaller. This way, the size of the Blanket or Cardigan will remain the same as the original! You can always check whether your crochet tension matches what’s specified in the pattern by crocheting a gauge swatch.
The needle tip
From the thickness of the Crochet Hook, let’s move on to the texture and shape of the Crochet Hook tip. For example, one Crochet Hook has a tip with a short shank and a “rougher” head, while another has a slightly longer shank with a smooth, small head. It’s all about what you like! In any case, there’s a huge selection. :)
The handle
Just like the song “Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes,” we started at the top with the Crochet Hook and have now reached the bottom: the handle. This handle comes in many varieties; in this blog, we’ll show you a few examples.
The handle of your future Crochet Hook has three features you’ll need to consider. Is the handle flat or round? Does the handle have a grip or not? And will you go for a soft or hard cover? Choices, choices, and more choices. And don’t take this too lightly, because you’ll be covering quite a few kilometers with that hook. So strike up a conversation with fellow crafters and pay a visit to the Yarnplaza Inspiration Center. Test the Crochet Hooks out in your hand. Which Crochet Hook feels comfortable and is ergonomically sound? If, for example, you suffer from osteoarthritis, rheumatism, or RSI, then the specially designed ergonomic addi Swing Crochet Hook is the one you’re looking for. So there’s a... uh... Crochet Hook for every need! ;)
How much is too much?
The final way in which differences between Crochet Hooks can be demonstrated is through price. You have a powder from Hema or a blush from Chanel. A grocery cart from Renault or a flashy Tesla car equipped with all the bells and whistles. In the world of Crochet Hooks, too, there are hooks that fall into the “crème de la crème” category and hooks where “crème” alone is enough. You can complete your projects successfully with either type of Crochet Hook. The questions you should ask yourself are: How often will I use this Crochet Hook? And which Crochet Hook feels comfortable in my hand? Take a look at our extensive selection of Crochet Hooks. Whether online or at the Inspiration Center, we’re happy to help you find your new crochet companion! :)
Yarnplaza's Favorite Crochet Hooks
If you’re still having trouble deciding and are torn between a few Crochet Hooks, keep our list of favorites in mind. Maybe that’ll make that tough choice a little easier! :) The Crochet Hooks that deserve a spot on our podium are... (drumroll)...
- Yarn and Colors Crochet Hook
- Addi Swing Crochet Hook
- Clover Amour Crochet Hook
- Tulip Etimo Crochet Hook
- KnitPro Waves 2.0 Crochet Hook
Tips for Beginners
After reading this blog, you’re probably ready to get started with crocheting. Did you know we have lots more interesting tips for beginners? For example, check out our blog on ergonomic crocheting, our blog on learning to crochet for beginners, or take a look at our comprehensive tutorial page, where you’ll find helpful step-by-step videos of all kinds of crochet stitches and techniques. Have fun crocheting!
