If you’ve ever looked into getting started with crochet, you might have found that there are quite a few different options available when it comes to the tools you need to get started. There are also more than a few different types of hooks out there, as well as specific materials and sizes. In this blog post, we’ll give you a brief beginners guide to buying crochet hooks. We’ll explain what the different types are and why they matter, as well as go over some tips and tricks for finding the right ones for you. So let’s get started!
What is a Crochet Hook?
A crochet hook is a tool that is used by crochet artists to hold the yarn while they are working. The hook is used to create loops and stitches that are then used to create fabrics, garments and amigurumi, like the Crochetree dolls. The hook also allows you to keep the yarn tension loose enough to create a fabric but tight enough to hold the fabric together. If you’ve ever tried to crochet with your hands, you’ve probably found that it’s really difficult to maintain control over the tension of the yarn. This is why the hook is such an important tool! There are a variety of different types of crochet hooks out there, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. For example, some types of hooks are made from heavier materials and can be a bit more challenging for beginners to use.
Wooden Hooks
Wooden hooks are the most traditional type of crochet hook, and they’re still very popular among both beginner and advanced artists. The back of each hook is usually made of wood, either birch or cherry, while the head of the hook is made of metal. You’ll often see these hooks referred to as bamboo hooks, as bamboo is often the type of wood used. Wooden hooks have a few advantages over other types of hooks. First off, they are extremely affordable, which is great for beginners who are trying to save a few bucks as they get started. Additionally, wooden hooks are often very lightweight. This can be a big advantage for beginner artists who may not have much experience with holding a hook in their hands and maintaining control over it. Wooden hooks are also very easy to clean and maintain; you can just wipe them down with a damp cloth from time to time to keep them clean and free from bacteria.
Metal Hooks
Metal hooks are another very common type of crochet hook. They are usually made of aluminum, steel, or some other type of metal. Because of their construction, these hooks can be much heavier than wooden hooks, which can make them a little bit more challenging for beginners to use. That being said, metal hooks are a very durable type of hook. This is especially true if you buy a high-quality metal hook. Since they’re made from a sturdier material, they can be a bit more versatile than wooden hooks. You’ll also find that the larger metal hooks are great for crocheting with thicker materials, such as wool.
Plastic Hooks
Plastic hooks are a type of crochet hook that is commonly used in the medical field. They are primarily made of a semi-flexible plastic, and they are often used to stitch wounds shut or to tie off blood vessels. That may sound a bit scary, but these hooks are actually a great choice for beginners. That’s because they’re usually very affordable, which can be a big bonus for anyone who is just getting started with crochet. These hooks are also usually very lightweight. This can make them a great choice for those who are just getting started with crochet and don’t have much experience with holding a hook in their hands. One thing to keep in mind with plastic hooks is that they are not very durable.
Buying Guide: What to look for
- Material: Remember, not all crochet hooks are made from the same materials. You’ll want to make sure you’re getting a hook that is best suited to your needs. If you’re using a hook to work with a heavier yarn, you’ll want to make sure the hook you’re using is made from a sturdy material that can properly hold the weight of the yarn. And if you’re making garments or other items that involve lots of intricate stitches, you’ll want a lighter hook that can easily manoeuvre through the yarn.
- Size: The size of the crochet hook you purchase can make a big difference when it comes to the finished product. If you’re making something like a blanket or a large scarf, you’ll want to use a larger hook that can hold a lot of yarn. If you’re making something smaller, like a doll or a hat, you’ll want a smaller hook that can manoeuvre through the yarn with ease. I normally use crochet hook sizes 2.0, 2.5 and 3.0 on my Crochetree Dolls.
- Grip: You’ll want to make sure the crochet hooks you buy are comfortable to hold. If you don’t like the way a hook feels in your hands, you’ll probably have a hard time using it efficiently and effectively.
Crochet Hook Materials
The type of material a crochet hook is made from can have a big impact on how effective it is for your projects. Some materials are more durable than others, as well as more flexible, which can make a big difference in your ability to work with certain types of yarn. Yarn made from natural fibers, like cotton or wool, is usually thicker and more difficult to work with. Hooks made from more flexible materials, like plastic or aluminum, can be great for working with these types of yarns. If you’re dealing with thinner yarn, you may want to use a heavier material that can better hold the weight. If you’re working with really heavy yarn, you may want a lightweight material that can easily maneuver through the yarn without adding too much extra weight.
Determining Which Hook Size You Need
When you’re choosing a crochet hook, you’ll also have to think about the size of the hook you need. This is measured by either the number or the letter that is written next to the hook. The larger the number, the larger the hook. Same for the letter. If you’re working with a thinner yarn, you want to use a smaller crochet hook. This is because you want to make sure the yarn is as taut as possible as you work with it. So if you use a larger crochet hook, the yarn won’t be as tight, and your finished product will be looser. This is particularly important if you’re making a small project, like a hat or an amigurumi. In this case, you need to use a smaller hook to make the stitches smaller and give your project a nice and tight finish.
Conclusion
And there you have it, a brief beginners guide to buying crochet hooks. As you can see, there is a lot to keep in mind when you’re picking out the right hooks for you. You’ll want to make sure you are getting hooks made from the right materials, in the right size, and with a design that works best for your personal crochet style. If you’re just getting started with crochet, it’s a good idea to pick up a few different types of hooks and see which ones work best for you. This way, you can try out a few different types and see which ones feel the most comfortable and natural in your hands.