9 Essential Crochet Tools for Beginners : Must-Have Supplies

1. Crochet Hooks

Crochet hooks are basically THE MOST essential tool you would need in your crochet journey. Having a variety of crochet hook sizes gives you the flexibility and versatility to work on a wide range of crochet projects.  

It allows you to adjust your stitch tension, achieve the correct gauge for your projects, and work with various yarn weights.

These different sizes in crochet hooks are typically denoted by millimeters (mm) or by letter and number combinations. Let’s explore why having a range of crochet hook sizes is important for your crochet projects: 

How to Choose the Right Crochet Hook?

 

• Yarn Weight – Each yarn comes in different weights and a range of sizes, hence you will need to choose the right crochet hook size for your project.

Ideally, a bigger hook is best suited for heavier / bulky yarn. This can be determined by the yarn label or the sleeves around the yarn or as mentioned in the pattern you are following.

• Material – crochet hooks come in different types of materials in the market ranging from metal hooks, wood or bamboo hooks, plastic hooks, and even resin material.

Each offers a different weight and temperature. Try a few and see which ones fit you the best.

• The Tip – There are 2 types of hooks – tapered and inline. One has a narrowed neck below the hook and a pointier tip while the other one doesn’t. Choosing between these two again depends on the way you crochet and what hook style you’d prefer.

• Comfort – There are many crochet hooks in the market offering ergonomic handles, silicon materials, and much more. However, some people prefer it plain and simple. 

Too many decisions to make? Here are a few of my favorite hooks you can try that are beginner friendly ranging from classic to fancy. At the end of the day, the best crochet hooks are the ones that fit you the best. 

 

2. Yarn

 

Choosing the right yarn for your project is crucial for achieving the desired outcome. There are different types of yarn categories to choose from which consist of the yarn’s weight, fiber content, and texture significantly impacting the final look and feel of your creation. 

The right yarn choice ensures proper stitch definition, drape, and durability, aligning with the project’s intended use. By carefully selecting the yarn that best suits your project, you can enhance its overall quality and ensure a satisfying result that meets your expectations.

How to Choose the Right Yarn?

 

 

• Weight – The weight of the yarn is measured by its thickness. For example, a fingering weight would be an ideal choice when making socks or a lace shawl whereas thicker yarns or bulky weight yarns are suited for blankets and rugs.

• Fiber – Fiber is what the yarn is made out of.  There are natural fibers as well as synthetic fibers available in the market and it all boils down to what you will be using it for. Ideally, you would want to go for cotton yarn or acrylic yarn for a cooler finish garment and wool for that warm and cozy finish.

• Intent – Based on the two points mentioned above, you should be able to easily choose the best yarn for your project based on what you intend to use it for. 

• Color – Colors are selective however choosing light and bright colors is always a better choice for summer days as it reflects the sun. That’s something to keep in mind about.

And a great way to ensure you don’t mix colors up is to always write down the name or number of the color lot and brand for easy reference next time. You can use my Free WIP printout work tag to mark all your work. 

For a beginner crocheter, choose a soft or medium-weight yarn if you’re trying it out for the first time like the Lily Sugar N Cream Brand.

Acrylic yarn like the Red Heart brand is a popular choice for beginners due to its affordability and wide range of colors.

And referring back to the type of hook you will be using, you will already be able to narrow down on what kind of yarn to get.

And to get you all geared up, here is a free Yarn Calculator for you to check out. It’ll tell you exactly how many skeins of yarn you will need for all your projects.

 

3. Scissors

 

This goes without saying, having a good pair of scissors dedicated to cutting yarn is an essential crochet tool. There are other tools you can use as well like this yarn cutter, which is small and the perfect size to bring with you when you’re crocheting on the go or even when traveling by plane. 

4. Stitch Markers

 

These little clips are essential tools needed for marking a spot along your work, especially when working in the round or following complex patterns.

There are 3 types of stitch marker styles so make sure to choose the right one for your project.

How to Choose the Right Stitch Marker?

 

• Locking  Stitch Marker – This is the type of stitch marker you should use. It should have an interlocking end that allows you to secure it close to your project.
• Hook-on Stitch Marker – This type of marker is great if you need to quickly add and remove a marking as it only requires you to hook the marker into its place without the additional closing clip.
• The Ring Stitch Marker – Use this type only if you are planning to knit. This type of stitch marker is only meant for knitting needles and should not be used in crochet because it will not be able to come off from your crochet stitch once done.

If you don’t want to spend extra $$ on stitch markers, another great way to mark your work is by simply using purpose-made stitch markers like simple safety pins or scraps of contrasting yarn.

5. Yarn Needle

 

Also known as a tapestry needle or a darning needle, this is used for weaving in loose ends and seaming pieces together. Choose a needle with a large eyelet that can accommodate various yarn types. Also, note that these types of needles are usually slightly blunt than your regular sewing needle.

6. Tape measure

 

A flexible measuring tape is useful for checking gauges, measuring finished items, and ensuring accuracy in your crochet work. (This goes without saying 😉)

7. Crochet Pattern or Book 

 

Beginners should start with simple crochet patterns or beginner-friendly books that provide step-by-step instructions and illustrations. It should also include a list of all the common crochet abbreviations definitions as well as a crochet symbols chart for easy reference.

At the end of the day look for patterns that are suitable for your skill level and interests. Here are a bunch of free patterns for you to go check out.

8. Crochet Hook Organizer

 

This is a good idea if you want to keep all your hooks and needles in one place. Having a crochet hook organizer keeps all your hooks and small tools together while making them easily accessible. Trust me on this one, I’ve had my hooks and stitch markers misplaced a dozen times. (Thanks kids!)

 

9. Crochet Gauge Calculator

 

A Gauge Calculator is a tool to help you measure your crochet swatch rows and stitches efficiently. It makes calculating any size quick and easy!

This handy online free calculator allows you to determine your stitch and row gauge by manually measuring your swatch and inputting the information into the calculator.

 

BONUS: Facebook Group

 

Last but not least, if you are thinking of pursuing crochet as a long-term hobby or business, don’t forget to join available crochet groups online. There are some amazing Facebook groups that consist of a community of avid crocheters old and new alike, that use this platform to share their experience, tips, and ideas.

It is a great place to not only learn something new but to also possibly make new virtual friends that share the same interest.

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If you have made it this far, you will know that although these are the top essentials you will need when starting to crochet, there are also some other fun crochet tools that are nice to have.

While not essential, these tools can enhance your crochet experience. These items range from an assortment of yarn rings to pretty yarn bowls. Check them out here.