Selecting the most suitable crochet hooks for your planned project can prove a tricky task. When browsing the internet you will find yourself easily overwhelmed by a vast array of different shapes, materials and sizes. The reply to this question is never a straightforward one. Apart from the different sizes and widths, crochet hooks can also have different shapes and are manufactured from different materials. Moreover, most series can be bought in complete sets. So why bother? Why not just go, buy the next best hook and start?
There is a simple reason why this is not a good idea. When you are planning to go for a leisurely walk through the countryside, you won´t exactly pick your high-heeled Valentino’s, would you? And you will certainly not walk around in your flip-flops, when it's raining sideways outside.
Finding the right crochet hook depends on two factors. First, think about your project. The required hook size is usually included in the pattern and also indicated on the yarn label. Not all types of yarn are suitable for all types of crochet hooks, though. And not all crochet hooks may be suitable for your hands. If you use the wrong type of crochet hook, the difference in both the size and quality of your outcome and your overall crocheting experience can be big enough to get you frustrated.
That being said, there is some information which might be useful prior to starting your journey into the magic world of crocheting.
Crochet hooks consist of three parts: The head, the shaft and the handle. The head is made of a point, a lip and a throat and is your tool to pick up the yarn and hold it. If the opening is too wide, the thread will slip off easily. If the notch is too narrow or deep, the yarn may even get stuck or tangled.
KnitPro has a variety of different hooks with differently shaped heads. Some less pointy ones include the Gold Aluminium Crochet hook . It is a great, all-purpose tool with a softer curve which comes in all sizes and facilitates a gentle grip for smooth and easygoing crocheting. In return, our Ginger, single-ended hook has a slightly sharper inclination which is in line with the handle, too. It also comes with a pointy head, designed for effortless progress, and will make every project a real pleasure. In general, hook heads with sharper throat angles are great for harder, thinner yarn, whilst they may get stuck in softer, less twisted thread.
The shaft of the crochet hook is the part between the head and the handle. Usually, it is of the same material as the head and should make sure the thread can slide easily on top. Its length can also influence your work. If you tend to hold your yarn far behind your WIP and you have to pierce deeply into it to yarn over, a shaft which is too short will be problematic.
The form of your crochet hook and its manufacture will influence your movements dramatically. Any crochet hook which does not fit your hand size and position will quickly drive you into despair. Therefore, have a good look at the handle before you select your weapon of choice.
If you like the feeling of holding something of substance in your hands, the KnitPro Waves line is your ideal crocheting partner. The needle is made from aluminium, whilst the handle is made of a more flexible silicone material which will give you a firmer grip, even if you tend to have sweaty palms. There are complete sets of crochet hooks for beginners, which come in a colour coded design that makes it easy to spot the different sizes at a glance.
In case you have an easier touch, you will be happy with our lightweight Zing crochet hook series. They offer a flat shaft which is great to rest your index finger while rushing through the stitches. The high-quality aluminium frame allows for fast crocheting without being interrupted by dropped stitches. They are great for smaller work like amigurumi toys, headbands or decorative items, such as flowers.
Which handle is more comfortable for you will always depend on how you hold the tool. Think pencil drawing or writing a long letter. Surely, you have your favourite pens which are more comfortable to hold than others. From an ergonomic point of view, it is important to have a handle which ensures a comfortable grip and which does not bend or break.
Our designers have tried to create crocheting tools which mirror the diversity of the yarn-loving community. Many neurodiverse people have sensory issues with the sound or the feel of metal under their hands. Our bamboo hooks will not only ease your mind and provide a soothing experience, the sustainable plant is also a great, ecological alternative to traditional materials.
If you are still at the beginning of your crocheting journey, it may be advisable to try different hooks of a good quality in order to test which type and style feels more comfortable. Very soon you will find yourself slowly easing into your own, unique crocheting style.
