How to Buy Crochet Hooks

Crochet hooks are usually made of steel, aluminum or plastic. With the exception of steel hooks used for fine yarn or threads, all crochet hooks are numbered or lettered. Higher numbers or letters indicate larger sizes. A tiny steel hook might be appropriate for crocheting doilies or snowflakes, while a jumbo plastic hook is perfect for bulky items.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Crochet Patterns
• Crochet Hooks
• Crochet Thread
• Sewing Baskets
• Yarns
• Scissors
• Rulers

1. Check to see if your pattern instructions specify a hook or hook size.

2. Study the pattern for any accessories you may need to crochet your pattern, such as a loom for hairpin lace or a broomstick or large knitting needle for the broomstick stitch.

3. Use an afghan hook when crocheting certain afghan patterns. An afghan hook doesn't have a thumb rest on the shaft as a yarn hook does. This allows the yarn to slip back on the hook, but a stop at the base of the afghan hook keeps the stitches from coming off.

4. Use double-ended crochet hooks with cro-hook patterns. They also come in a range of sizes. Look at your pattern for the specific size needed.

5. Crochet a sample of the stitches used in the pattern. Most patterns will have a gauge for the number of stitches per inch.

6. Measure the sample. If the gauge is correct (an inch of stitches should equal the number specified in the pattern), use that hook. If the gauge is too small, switch to a larger hook. If it's too big, switch to a smaller hook.

Tips & Warnings

• Sometimes it's less expensive to purchase a set of crochet hooks, especially if you plan to continue with this fun and great gift-making craft.

• Check the bottom of the sewing box, the top shelf of the closet or garage sales for stray crochet hooks.