Choosing the right crochet hook

Let the Mighty Tripod shine some knowledge onto you!

Yes, it's tutorial time again!

Holding a crochet hook can be a bit difficult for a cat with no opposable thumbs. Being a tripod doesn't help much either. That's why I use my human to do all the crocheting work. And here are some things I've learned from his constant complaining about crochet hooks.

Rule #1 

Crochet hooks are not like Pokemon, you don't have to catch them all!

If you're reading this tutorial, I guess you're probably a beginner. In that case, this point is probably the most important one. Crochet hooks are not expensive, but they're not free either. So, if you've never crocheted before, do not buy an entire set of hooks – begin with a single hook of reasonable size, e.g. 3,5 mm. This size is big enough to hold comfortably, and all the loops, crochets and chains will be quite big and easy to see. Once you learn the basics and decide that crocheting is the thing for you, splash out and get as many hooks as you want!

Rule #2 

Crocheting is not like going to the gym, the “no pain, no gain” rule does not apply.

Sometimes crocheting sessions can be quite long and, after a few hours, one really does appreciate a hook that is comfortable to hold. So, don't be a cheapskate! A hook with a handle is only a tiny bit more expensive than a handle-less one. Choose a hook with a wide handle, preferably one that feels “soft” not “slippery”. And again, don't but an entire set. Buy one, check if it feels okay in your hand and then consider buying other sizes.

From the top: The first one has a wide and soft handle - you can crochet till you drop with this one. The green one in the middle has a nice handle, but the plastic feels a bit cheap and slippery. The bottom one has NO handle and, therefore, is a big NO NO. Really, just say "No" to handle-less crochet hooks.

Rule #3

A crochet hook is not like a sofa, one size does not fit all.

Yup, that is a really lazy comparison, but I have no better ideas:P Anyways, you have to remember to choose the right size of your crochet hook. Whenever you buy a skein of yarn, you'll find information with the suggested hook size. However, you should remember that it is only a suggestion. Choosing the size affects not only the size of your finished work, but also other features, including softness.

So, if you're making an amigurumi plushie, remember that the hook should be 0,5mm or 1mm smaller than the suggested size. This way the stuffing won't stick out. If you're making something that has to be stretchy like a pair of gloves, it might be a good idea to use a slightly larger hook, e.g. 0,5mm bigger. And if you're making something that has to be soft and light, like a scarf, the hook can be totally off limits.

Just one more tip, petting your cat should always take priority over crocheting.

Read, enjoy and obey,

Tripod