In today’s learn to crochet series, I’m sharing a list of the crochet supplies you’ll need to have on hand to learn to crochet.
Learning a new skill or craft can be intimidating. There’s terminology to learn that can be as strange as trying to learn a foreign language. There’s crochet supplies you’ll need and so very many options to choose from. Then there are all sorts of yarn types, weights, colors and the list goes on.
You know, I’m fortunate that I had a mom who knew how to crochet and sew and who shared her talents with her children. Although, my mom used those skills more out of necessity than just pure enjoyment. Sewing wasn’t a hobby for her, it was a way of life. I am truly grateful for her and her willingness to share those particular skill sets with me. Since she’s not here to share her crochet tips and tricks with us, I’m afraid you all are going to have to settle for me!
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Crochet Supplies You’ll Need to Learn to Crochet
So, like I shared last week, I’m hoping to take a little bit of the mystery out of learning to crochet. Besides, if my mom could teach a young child how to crochet, I’m sure I can at least share some pertinent information with you to get you headed in the right direction! This week on our demystifying journey to learn to crochet, let’s take a closer look at the crochet supplies you’ll need to get started with this amazingly addictive craft:
Crochet Hooks
Crochet hooks are measured in diameter ranging from 0.35 mm to 25 mm. Typically, hooks under 2.00 mm are made of steel and are often referred to as thread hooks. Hooks of 2.00 mm or larger are referred to as yarn hooks, regular hooks or crochet needles. That aside, there are basically two “types” of crochet hooks:In Line Hooks and Tapered Hooks.
- In Line Hooks, like these Susan Bates Crochet Hooks, have a straight edge that does NOT taper near the hook.
- Tapered Hooks, on the other hand, like these Boye Crochet Hooks, have a narrowing at the throat of the needle near the hook (thus, the name “tapered”).
There are pros and cons to both types of hooks. I’d suggest giving them a try and see which one you’re more comfortable with. (By the way, most of the links in this post are to products you can find/purchase on Amazon. You can certainly find most, if not all, of these items at your favorite craft store like JoAnn Fabrics or Michaels.)
You can read more about crochet hooks and find a conversion chart on the Craft Yarn Council’s website. While you’re there, be sure to check out this really handy booklet put out by the Craft Yarn Council called Standards & Guidelines that is a great tool that you might want to download and print for future reference.
All crochet patterns list a recommended crochet hook size, such as “size H 5.00 mm crochet hook”. Also, when you’re buying yarn, the label shows the recommended hook size as well as an estimated number of stitches for every 4 inches. This makes it even easier for beginners. As a general rule of thumb, the size of your hook should correspond with the size of your yarn. Small yarn requires a small hook while a bulky yarn requires a larger hook.
However, my favorite crochet hooks are the ergonomic hooks. You can find a variety of styles to choose from, including:
I gotta tell you though, my absolute all time favorite crochet hooks are my handmade hooks that my husband made for me. He took some of my crochet hooks and made hand turned wooden handles for them. I love them!
Scissors
Besides crochet hooks, scissors are probably the next most important tool you’ll want to have on hand. You will find you use scissors a lot when crocheting. Having a little pair close by will be an essential. There are tons of scissors to choose from, but the ones I use are these little Fiskars scissors.
Darning Needle
When you finish your crochet project or change colors, you’ll use a darning needle to weave in the ends of the yarn. I have found the best darning needles are the ones with a big eye and sharp point, like these Dritz Yarn Darners which you can find in stores just about anywhere you shop. You’ll also want someplace safe to store your needle so you don’t lose it and so you aren’t constantly poking yourself with the needle! I like this Yarn Darner set from Clover as it comes with a handy storage container.
Stitch Markers
When you are crocheting in the round, you will want an easy way to mark the end of each round, otherwise, it’s easy to lose track of which round you’re working on. You can simply use a piece of contrasting yarn, but you’ll find the yarn falls out pretty easily. The stitch markers, like these from Clover, are a snap to use and stay secure until you’re ready to move it to the next round.
Yarn
I think it goes without saying, but you’ll need yarn if you’re going to learn to crochet. There are way too many different types and weights of yarn for me to cover all that in this post today. I recommend you find an easy beginner project and simply purchase the recommended yarn for that project. One thing I can recommend if you’re new to crocheting is to start off with light colored yarn – it will be so much easier for you to see what you’re doing.
My two dishcloth crochet patterns are a couple of easy projects you can try:
First Crochet Project
So, now you have your essential tools, it’s time to pick out your first crochet project. Where do you find patterns or inspiration? Well, of course, you’ll find tons of crochet inspiration on Pinterest. But, if you need a little more instruction, I would suggest starting with Craftsy. They offer classes, tutorials and instructional videos, including this free eGuide, The Beginner’s Guide to Crochet.
Of course, these Crocheted Dishcloths are pretty easy to make and one of my favorite crochet projects to gift to family and friends.
Now that you have familiarized yourself with crochet terminology (go here to download your cheat sheet), and are armed with the crochet supplies you’ll need to learn to crochet, when you’re ready to learn more, be sure to read all about how to colorfast yarn here. And, of course, read my Textured Stitch Dishcloth or Crunchy Stitch Dishcloth tutorials.
These really are the very basic crochet supplies you’ll need to learn how to crochet. Having these crochet supplies readily available will make your learning process so much easier! I have to warn you though, crocheting can be addictive! If you get the bug, you can thank me later!
Til next time…
P.S.: Don’t forget to go here to download the free Crochet Terms Chart printable!