Crochet hooks are the one thing that separates crocheters from every other yarn crafter. And, when it comes to learning how to crochet, picking the right hook is crucial.
You may have to experiment with several hooks to find the perfect fit. Use the information in this crochet hook guide to learn which hook may be the best fit for you. This post covers the best crochet hooks for beginners by category, crochet hook anatomy, and nuances in crochet hooks that make them easier or more challenging to use.
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The U.S. market is generous with crochet hook types, offering different shapes, colors, and handles. Changing one feature of a hook can make the difference between a user loving or hating it. As a crochet teacher, I’ve seen a student go from struggling to finally “getting it” just by changing their tools. Here are some tips on picking the right hook for you from the plethora of options available.
NOTE: I am an inline hook user who crochets right-handed, so my opinion is biased. What I consider “best” may not work for everyone. Experiment with different hooks to see what you like.
Best Crochet Hooks by Category
1 // Best Overall Hooks – Clover Amour
Clover Amours are the darlings of the crochet community. Each set (as shown above) comes with 10 hooks ranging in size from 2.25mm to 6mm. The hooks have a matte aluminum finish with comfortable rubber handles. Each handle is a different color with the size marked with the US letter and metric mm on the handle, making it easy to pick the size you need by color or by text. They are a hybrid style, pulling the best features from tapered and inline hooks into one sleek design.
Notable benefits: comfortable for pencil and knife grip, easily accessible in stores and online, smooth shaft makes for speedy crocheting
5/3/2023 – This hook set is for sale on Amazon.com for $41.30 (44% off!). Shop HERE.
2 // Best Inline Hooks – Susan Bates Silvalume
Introduced in the 1960s, Silvalume hooks are what come to mind when someone says they use Susan Bates hooks. Affordable and accessible with sizes ranging from size 2.25mm to 10mm, Silvalume’s are an easy choice when experimenting with crochet. The hook is made from aluminum, undergoing an anodizing process that removes surface imperfections. The resulting hook is smooth to the touch with a round body and wide, flat thumb rest.
Notable benefits: Rigid aluminum body, inline hook head reduces wrist and hand fatigue, deep hook head is more secure for thicker or slippery yarns
3 // Best Tapered Hooks – Boye Aluminum Crochet Hook
Most crocheters are Team (Susan) Bates or Team Boye. If you’re Team Boye, you can’t get any better than their classic aluminum crochet hooks set. Like the Bates hooks, these are aluminum with a rounded body and flat thumb rest. They feature the easily recognizable tapered throat leading to a rounded hook head with a lip that protrudes slightly further than the handle. The hooks are color-coded in pastels.
Notable benefits: slightly longer handle than Susan Bates hooks, durable and smooth semi-gloss finish, set includes uncommon hook sizes like 5.25mm and 5.75mm
4 // Best Bamboo Hooks – Chiaogoo Bamboo Natural
If you’re interested in a minimal look that won’t sacrifice function, check out Chiaogoo’s Bamboo Natural hooks. Made from Chinese Moso bamboo, these hooks are lightweight, strong, and sturdy. The smooth bamboo is warm in your hands, making crochet feel effortless and natural. Though pricier than other individual hooks on the market, makers swear by bamboo crochet hooks’ accuracy and even tension.
Notable benefits: long-wearing and sturdy bamboo throughout, high-quality craftsmanship means hooks are consistent regardless of when you purchase them, available sizes range from 3.5mm to 25mm
5 // Best Plastic Hooks – Susan Bates Luxite
If you’re on a budget and love the minimal look, Susan Bates’ Luxite hooks are for you. You won’t find any bells and whistles here. Just a sturdy, smooth, all-white plastic hook. The size is etched into the side so it’s easy to identify, and the inline style mimics SB’s Silvalume’s without the heft. Though some sizes are pretty strong, I’ve broken several Luxites in the smaller sizes. You may have to sacrifice speed when working with these hooks if you have tight tension.
Notable benefits: very affordable, easily accessible, lightweight
6 // Best Ergonomic Hooks – Furls Wooden Streamlines
To be honest, Clover Amour would be my first choice for the best ergonomic hooks, but, since they’re already mentioned, we’ll give this category to Furls Wooden Streamlines. Furls’ claim to fame is their unique hook design, which addresses common crochet problems. They feature a hybrid hook head with a teardrop-shaped handle designed to nestle in the palm of your hand (though that doesn’t benefit those using a pencil grip). I chose the wooden Streamlines specifically because they are lightweight and inexpensive compared to the other hooks offered by Furls.
Notable benefits: lightweight, wise investment if these hooks work for you, designed with hand health in mind
7 // Best Jumbo Hooks – Clover Amour Large Hooks
Not like you can’t tell or anything, but I am a big Clover hook fan. Their large hooks are sold separately and in bundles, and they are a great choice for jumbo hooks. They even offer a 7mm size, which is especially tricky to find in the U.S. You’ll notice that the jumbo hooks are shaped like the smaller hooks and have the same rubber handle, but their body is made from lightweight, sturdy plastic. You won’t have to worry about these hooks breaking on you.
Notable benefits: sold individually so you can get only the sizes you need, offers 7mm hook size, colorful handles make finding the right size easy
8 // Best Crochet Thread Hooks – Clover Amour Steel Hook
Clover really covered all of their bases when it came to creating the ideal crochet hook collection. The steel hooks are made for working with crochet thread, a 100% cotton yarn that is incredibly thin. The steel hooks come with individual sheaths to protect the delicate hook heads. The handles are a muted pastel rainbow to further drive the point home that these are dainty hooks. While the hooks themselves are small, they are incredibly strong, with a steel hook nestled into the rubber handle.
Notable benefits: color-coded handles, rubber grip for comfortable crocheting, one set includes all the sizes you need for tiny crochet stitches
9 // Best Indie Hooks – Letto Workshop
Some of the best crochet hooks I’ve used can’t be found in stores. They’re made and sold by small, independent business owners. Letto Workshop is based in Ukraine and run by some of the sweetest people I know – Stan and Julie. Their signature ornate hooks are perfectly sized, even for my large hands. But they don’t stop at just one style. Stan and Julie have perfected multiple hook handle styles, some resulting in a 100% hand-carved wood hook and others with metal hook inserts. They range in price, starting at just $19, proving that you don’t have to break the bank to support small businesses.
Other notable indie hook makers: CroChic Styles, Ophire Co., Pink Sheep Design, and KnitBrook’s Hook BBs
10 // Best Beginner Hooks – WeCrochet’s Dots Hooks
Beginner crochet hooks should be comfortable, easy to use, and most of all, affordable. A new kid on the crochet block is the Dots Crochet Hook Set from WeCrochet. The set includes 9 colorful hooks ranging in size from 2.0mm to 6.0mm. The handle is a hard plastic with a rubberized coating making up the colorful portion. The rectangular thumbrest, mm size markings, and hope at the bottom (to hold stitch markers) are all nice touches, but the $24.99 price tag is what made my jaw drop. These hooks are high quality from a trusted company.
Notable benefits: color-coded handles in an adorable design, 6.5″ hook for those that need a longer tool, embossed sizes on the handle to prevent them from wearing away
What Should I Know About Crochet Hooks?
Just like learning about yarn, learning about crochet hooks and which works best for you is a journey. Thankfully, there are some universal features of crochet hooks that you can start to gravitate toward when building your crochet hook collection.
Crochet Hook Anatomy
Every hook, from traditional to ergonomic and novelty, will feature these characteristics. Combining those characteristics and your unique crochet style will influence your preferred hook type.
- Head – The hook head includes the throat (the backside of the hook leading to the tip), the point (the top-most tip of the hook), the lip (the lower point of the head that hovers over the bowl), and the bowl (the hollow created by the lip, allowing the yarn to be caught by the hook). The hook head is the first point of contact you have with your stitches when crocheting. Common issues result from the tip being too sharp or too dull/rounded, or the bowl being too shallow/deep.
- Shaft/ Shank – this part of the hook leads to the body and is just above the thumb rest (if a thumbrest is present).
- Grip/ Thumbrest – this is a portion of the hook designed for your thumb to rest comfortably. This area varies in shape and width depending on the hook. Using the thumb rest can take your hand closer or further from the hook head, thus altering your crocheting style.
- Handle – this is the remainder of the hook past the thumb rest. This part of the hook nestles into your hand when crocheting with the knife hold, or hovers over your hand when crocheting with the pencil hold.
Inline Vs. Tapered Vs. Hybrid
While all hooks have the same anatomy, the slight differences in that anatomy put them into 1 of 3 categories: inline, tapered, or hybrid. Being in a particular category doesn’t make one hook better than the other – it all comes down to preference and which hook style fits the way you move.
The differences between inline, tapered, and hybrid all come down to the relation between the hook head and the shaft:
- Inline: all features of the hook head are in line with the shaft from the shank to the point.
- Tapered: the throat tapers down as you reach the hook head, and the lip extends beyond the shank.
- Hybrid: some unique combination of the two styles.
Image source: WeCrochet
Pro Tip: If you’re trying to decide if you’re an inline (Team Bates) or tapered (Team Boye) person, get one of each hook from your local craft store and practice on a swatch of double crochet. The difference will likely be very obvious once you get going.
Crochet Hook Grip
Crochet hook grips are as unique as their users. How you hold your hook to compensate for your crochet style has many nuances. As you continue to practice crochet, experiment with the different grips or move your fingers onto different places in the hook to see what hold works best for you.
In general, most crocheters fall into 1 of two camps:
- Pencil Grip: the hook is held like a pencil with the handle floating above your hand.
- Knife Grip: the hook is held like a knife with the handle nestled in your palm.
Image source: WeCrochet
Crochet Hook Types
The craft of crochet has a lot of different applications, from amigurumi (doll and toy making) to broomstick lace, Tunisian crochet, and many more. Different types of crochet require different crochet hooks. Here are a few types of hooks you’ll see around the crochet aisle.
- Traditional (left): these hooks typically have no adornments or special styling on the handle. Both Boye and Susan Bates make a hook like this. Benefits: inexpensive and easy to find. Disadvantages: taxing on the wrist and hands, the finish will wear off with time and use.
- Ergonomic (middle): ergonomic hooks have some sort of adornment in the handle meant to alleviate the pain and stress that crochet can cause. This can be a softer material in the handle, a different handle shape, or some combination of these features. Benefits: focus on hand health, adds to the beauty and unique look of hook. Disadvantages: pricier than traditional hooks, might take costly trial and error to see if an ergonomic style actually works for you.
- Hand carved (right): more and more independent crochet hook makers are entering the scene and offering hand-carved wood-handled hooks. These hooks typically begin as a long block of wood and are whittled with hand tools or a lathe into a finished shape. Benefits: unique hooks, allows you to support a small business. Disadvantages: can be fragile, costs significantly more than traditional hooks.
- Novelty (left): handmade hooks aren’t just for woodcarvers. Makers are getting creative with designing crochet hooks, adding polymer clay to the handles, or fashioning the whole hook from resin and glitter. A quick search on Etsy will pull up many small businesses doing fun things with crochet hooks. Benefits: one-of-a-kind hooks for your collection, a special find for a gift or holiday. Disadvantages: quality varies significantly from shop to shop, hooks can be fragile.
- Steel: (middle) steel hooks are the go-to tool for crocheting with very fine lace yarn. Often called crochet yarn, fine cotton yarn was historically used to make knock-off lace. In more recent history, such fine yarn and steel hooks were used to crochet heirloom home goods and garments. Presently, steel hooks are still used for intricate lace patterns, but more ambitious crocheters are venturing into mini amigurumi and intricate crochet portraits.
- Tunisian crochet hooks (right): Tunisian crochet is a hybrid craft that livesat the intersection of knitting and crochet. Loops are collected onto the hook for the forward pass and worked off of the hook for the return pass. The resulting fabric is dense with a unique look to either knitting or crochet stitches. Benefits: can also be used as traditional crochet hooks and are more accessible as popularity increases. Disadvantages: often sold in sets which can be expensive, these hooks rarely have thumb rests.
Crochet Hook Materials
Crochet hook materials are about more than aesthetics. Different materials apply more or less tension to your work while you’re crocheting. Consider these points when purchasing your next crochet hook.
// Aluminum hooks are the most common and can be found in most big box stores. They come in various sizes and typically have a smooth finish from the tip to the handle. Because of their smooth finish and low friction, aluminum hooks are a good choice for high-tension yarns like animal and synthetic fibers.
// Wooden crochet hooks are typically made of wood like bamboo, pressed wood, or even sticks from trees. Wood hooks have a natural warmth to them and are sturdier than they look. High-quality wood hooks have a smooth exterior and work well with low-tension yarns like those found in plant fibers. The grain in the wood slows the slippery yarn from moving up and down the hook too fast. High-quality, smooth wood hooks are a great choice for crocheting with just about any type of yarn.
// Plastic hooks come in all shapes and sizes, and their crochet experience can vary greatly. While plastic hooks are easily accessible and inexpensive, they tend to bend and/or break. Look for sturdy plastic hooks like the ones made from resin sold by Furls and Prym. A common phenomenon in crocheting is plastic-on-plastic vibration. The motion of acrylic yarn on plastic hooks can emit a barely perceptible vibration that makes itself known through joint pain anywhere between your hands and shoulders. If you experience pain while crocheting, try switching to an aluminum or wood hook.
// Polymer clay-wrapped hooks are usually metal hooks with polymer clay decoratively wrapped around the handle. Clay is a beautiful medium for adding your personal flair to crochet hooks. Search for polymer clay hooks online or make your own with a tutorial (like this!).
// Steel crochet hooks are made of steel (obvs, lol). Since the hooks are so small, the weight of the steel doesn’t become a factor. Instead, steel’s strength and resistance mean these hooks will last forever.
Crochet Hook Sizes
Crochet Hook Conversion Chart
| UK | Metric | US | Recommended Yarn Weight (yarn category) |
| 14 | 2.00mm | 0 | Lace (0) |
| 13 | 2.25mm | B/1 | Lace to Superfine (O-1) |
| 12 | 2.5mm | C/2 | Superfine (1) |
| 11 | 3.00mm | – | Superfine (1) |
| 10 | 3.25mm | D/3 | Superfine (1) |
| 9 | 3.5mm | E/4 | Superfine to Fine (1-2) |
| – | 3.75mm | F/5 | Superfine to Fine (1-2) |
| 8 | 4.00mm | G/6 | Fine (2) |
| 7 | 4.5mm | 7 | Fine to Light (2-3) |
| 6 | 5.00mm | H/8 | Light (3) |
| 5 | 5.5mm | I/9 | Light to Medium (3-4) |
| 4 | 6.00mm | J/10 | Medium (4) |
| 3 | 6.5mm | K/10.5 | Medium to Bulky (4-5) |
| 2 | 7.00mm | 10.75 | Bulky (5) |
| 0 | 8.00mm | L/11 | Bulky (5) |
| 00 | 9.00mm | M/13 | Bulky to super bulky (5 to 6) |
| 000 | 10.00mm | N/15 | Super bulky (6) |
Crochet hook sizes are represented in numbers, letters, and metric measurements depending on your preference and where you live. Use this chart if you’re ever confused when reading patterns from a different country or when buying crochet hooks online.
Hook size recommendations are subjective. It depends on the type of fabric you’re trying to create. The recommendations in this chart assume you want to achieve a medium tension using basic stitches. Know that using a larger hook than recommended will give you a looser fabric, and a smaller hook will give you a tighter fabric.
When working from a pattern, try the recommended hook first. If you’re not working from a pattern, try the hook recommended in the chart above and adjust your hook up or down to get the drape and tension you’re looking for.
Learn More!
Curious about some of the specialty hooks on the market? Check out my video reviews of hooks from Furls, Amazon, and Bella Coco.
Crochet Hook Q&A
What are the best crochet hooks?
In my opinion, the best crochet hooks are Clover Amour. They come in every size from teeny steel hooks to jumbo Q hooks and everything in between. They’re easily accessible and can often be found on sale. They have a hybrid hook head, making them good for those who prefer inline and those who go for tapered hooks. Investing in a good set of crochet hooks early will prevent hours of frustration down the line. Wait until there is a craft store coupon to potentially get the full set for 50% off.
What is the best crochet hook size for beginners?
The best crochet hook size for beginners is anything from 5.0mm to 6.0mm. This size hook works well for a 4 – medium/worsted or 5 – bulky weight yarn. This combination of yarn and hook size means it will be easy to see your stitches and insert your hook into the right place.
Are inexpensive crochet hooks worth it?
Learning how to crochet with inexpensive, often inferior crochet hooks is unnecessary. Cheap crochet hooks sets on Amazon and elsewhere typically have an uneven finish and vary widely in craftsmanship. To avoid the frustration of bad tools, get your hooks using the links in this post or drop into a big box or local craft store.
What is the most comfortable crochet hook?
Ergonomic crochet hooks are designed with hand health in mind. They typically have some kind of cushion or design in the handle that makes them easier to use for longer periods of time. Purchase a single ergonomic hook of your choice to give it a try before investing in a whole set.
Do ergonomic crochet hooks help?
Absolutely, yes! Not all ergonomic crochet hooks are created equal. But high-quality ergonomic hooks like Clover Amour, Furls Streamline, and Prym crochet hooks all aid in the comfort of crocheters. You’ll notice a major difference if you’re a marathon crocheter (someone who crochets for hours or days on end).
Are Furls crochet hooks worth it?
Are you trying to start a war out here?! lol Crocheters are fiercely loyal about their Furls crochet hooks, but, as with all things craft, it comes down to preference. Furls offers several different types of hooks made of different materials and shapes. Those differences make them a great fit for some and an awful fit for others. I recommend waiting for a sale and getting your preferred hook types in your most used size to try them.
Are metal, wood, or plastic crochet hooks better?
Of all the hooks available, the current consensus is that metal hooks, especially aluminum, are superior, followed closely by wood with plastic trailing behind. But this is not a hard and fast rule. I’m a big fan of CroChic Styles resin hooks, but I have difficulty using Furls Odyssey aluminum hooks. It’s all a matter of preference – try them all and see what you like personally.
Hi Toni, Can I say “Fantastic” I’ve learned so much just in the last three days!
Thanks so much for sharing your wealth of knowledge!❤
By the way your video about testing hooks is how I found you on YouTube and one of my favorite!
I have metal and plastic set and now will collect wood one. But I have metal hooks from different brands that says that both are 3,5mm, but they have small but visible difference in their loops dimension, very awkward.
I’ve had my eye on the BQueen Collection hooks for a couple months now. One day I’ll get my act together and order in time for their monthly orders.
Thank you so much for this information. I am learning a lot and to be honest I had only the chance to use metal one.
Also, do you recommend those hooks that has an interchangeable head?
Hi! I unboxed some hooks like that and had mixed feelings. You can check out the video here.
During my earliest crochet days, I just got a cheap ergonomic set on Ebay, and when I watched your hook review videos my initial reaction was “Those are lovely, but why would you need/want to spend so much money on fancy hooks?” But now I’ve come across more and more lovely indie hooks across Etsy and other places, and now, I get it…. I get it. :~)
As a note on the Furls crochet hooks, consider the size of your hands. My hands are small and I’ve found Furls hooks to be too unwieldy and uncomfortable (and the Odyssey model too heavy). Sadly I’ve had to sell all my Furls hooks, but hopefully they went to happier owners.
You’ve obviously put sooooo much work into this FREE series. Thank you! You rock!
Another great post!!
Toni, you out did yourself. Love love all your explanations and yes Clover hooks are by far the best. Thanks again
Zady
Wow- a wealth of great information! Thank you!
Thanks so much! I also learned some of this from your YouTube videos last year. I had no idea there were tapered and in-line. My Clover with a comfort grip is my absolute favorite. My question is about Tunisian crochet. What would you recommend for a Clover girl? I bought cheap aluminum Tunisian hooks, and I can create the stitches. But the feel of thee hook in my hand is not pleasing. Would a better Tunisian hook make a difference? Which material feels best in your hand, if you are accustomed to a comfort grip?
Hi! I’ve got a video on choosing and using the best Tunisian crochet hooks for you. You can check it out here.
Hook choice has definitely made a difference in my crocheting. I need the ergonomic but I also have big hands for a woman. (No Seinfeld jokes please.) I tried Tulip hooks. Great for short projects but they dug into my hand on longer sessions. Prym is awesome on most yarns but can be sticky with some. My partner spoiled me with a set of Furls Odyssey, and they are my favorites by far.
Another great day of information! Toni, thank you for this!
Love all the knowledge you are sharing with us. Who knew there was so much to crocheting. I wish we could all get together and crochet. You are the best!!!
I found you when I first started and like Alek, who commented above, your crochet try out from Amazon got me hooked. I love knowing about the the different hooks as well as their differences. This is definitely a master class. Thank you for sharing your gift. I can not wait to continue.
Why is it that 7 mm hooks are so hard to find?
They’re just not used much here in the states. The 7mm is found more easily in Europe, it seems.
So I agree with your email post that I thought *too* that you were going to do a live broadcast everyday instead of a blog. (Frankly, I’m sorely disappointed and feel like I’ve been scammed.) If I had known that, I wouldn’t have bought all four kits. Your live broadcasts are where the fun is. I don’t know how you are going to teach someone over the next several days enough to know how to crochet a washcloth when we haven’t even learned how to chain yet. But we will see.
Funny you feel scammed when the whole event is free. But ok. And the washcloth doesn’t come until Week 3. I’m getting the impression that you skimmed literally all of the important information I sent out. That might me the source of your sore disappointment.
I am loving all this new information – Thank you Toni
Thank you!!! I’m excited to become a real crochet-er!
Really helpful & detailed info! I started crochet with cheap hooks but had a lot of hand and wrist pain. When I tried ergonomic hooks I was blown away! Your video reviews of different hooks were really helpful. I bought Furls (on sale) & like them but they are so expensive. I then tried Prym and was really really happy with the way they feel (no wrist pain!) and the price. I was able to find them through Wool Winders (a local yarn shop) – even better! Thanks for the great post!
I inherited my mum’s hooks a couple of years ago. TAhey were well used and looked after by her as she always had a project on the go. I don’t know what I can do with the 0.25 mm hook in the set (or the other smaller ones). I don’t think I will be crocheting cobwebs any time soon.
You are an Amazing teacher. Thank you for sharing your God given talent with us. We really appreciate this
QQ – the Prym crochet hook link takes you to Furls, is that supposed to happen?
Sorry its the link under the topic “Do ergonomic crochet hooks help?”
Wow Toni! This was so extremely informative. Aside from not truly understanding crochet stitches, learning how to hold a crochet hook has also been challenging. Learning the different parts of a hook and how they can vary and how they can impact how it feels to stitch is an eye opener. The big difference in knitting needles for me was just straight or circular (I’m a circular gal). I will now pay way more attention to which crochet hook I like best as I try out new ones. Thanks again!
Today’s blog post is another reason I’m hooked on Crochet Academy! Couldn’t resist.
I’ve been using Boyle aluminum hooks, because that’s what I have! I think I purchased them a long time ago, but haven’t really crocheted until recently. One of the hooks is labeled “U.S.A. J 55 cents”. It must be old!! Recently I purchased the Clover set from Amazon, and the difference in quality, and ease of use is amazing!! The head/shaft are super smooth making stitching almost effortless! And, for some reason, I find easier to maintain a uniform tension. An excellent investment!!
Toni, this was great! I do have a question. I just bought a Bamboo J-10 6mm hook but the Boye hook I have is J-10 5.75mm why is there a difference in the two? Thanks for this wonderful information.
Hi! That’s a proprietary thing with Boye. The standard is a J/10 6mm.
Toni the wealth of your knowledge and the finesse that you use to share it is beyond words! This has been the most informative three days I’ve had in a long time.🌹🧶
Loving Crochet Academy. So very informative. Thank you
Hi, I have a lot of experimenting to do with hooks. It may take me a while to determine which is best for me. Thanks for the information.
Thank you for the in-depth explanation of how important different crochet hook materials are. The fact about plastic on plastic vibration blew my mind!
Toni, As ALWAYS, giving great info!!! Thank you again for giving such great info and refresher to those of us that may have never known or fogot such important factors
Toni, I just have to say that I have learned a lot in these three days, even though I am not new to crochet. Until today, I thought I was holding my crochet hook incorrectly. Now I know I’m a knife grip hook holder. Thank you so much!🥰
I’ve seen so many of your videos that I hear your voice while reading your blog posts. Lol Loving the academy!
OMgoodness….me too!!! Lol!!
So glad I took the time to review this section. I’ve inherited quite a few aluminum hooks, but have been wanting to purchase a few ergonomic ones to give my hands some variation. This information is helpful.
Thanks for this great information! One thing, though, I noticed that the link to the Prym crochet hooks in the “Do ergonomic crochet hooks help?” section leads to the Furls website, was that intentional? I watched the video where you review various crochet hooks and gush about the Prym hooks, and I wanted to look at getting a set for myself.
Thanks for the heads up! Just updated the link 🙂
Hi Toni,hope you are good,
I’m enjoying the topics so much, most importantly I like that I can come back and re-read when I’m stuck.
Thank you.
Thank you! Great presentation and very informative.
I didn’t know I still can’t believe about Susan Bate hooks until watching your videos! Game changer- hooks matter. I’m also super into my new Furls hooks. They really help with larger ge projects.
I have spent my entire life preferring Boye hooks and not knowing why I didn’t like the Susan Bates one I have. Thanks for giving me actual terms to talk about the difference! It’s also nice to know that the shapes aren’t necessarily a brand-specific thing, now I feel more comfortable about potentially branching out with my hooks because I’ll know what to look for!
Toni, great information! Received my four Lion Brand kits today. It’s like Christmas in July 🎄 Thank for all you do!
The amout of knowledge i have gained in the past three days!! THANK you so much. Really appreciate your effort in making this❤️
Thank you once again, Toni, for the great info. I have a set of Dreamz Tunisian crochet hooks I bought when I followed one of your videos to learn Tunisian crocheting and I do like them, but I just ordered the Clover Amour crochet hook set using your link. I am excited to try them with the Lion Brand Yarn kits for the CAL!!
Another fabulous lesson today! Thanks for the breakdown on the crochet hooks.
So much information! Thank you for this comprehensive look at hooks!
Great information Toni! I’ve seen your video on crochet books but this is even more detail. I’m really enjoying the crochet academy!
Fabulous explanation of all things hooks! I love it!
Hi Toni, thank you for explaining the importance of the correct hook. I think that is something newbies don’t always look out for. I went for the affordable option – it is called Elle ( ergonomic ). Actually quite nice and extremely gentle on the wrist. But I must say, I am totally in love with the Furls Odyssey hooks. They are absolutely gorgeous! Thank you again for this academy and sharing your wisdom with all of us!!
You’ve reaffirmed hook information I’ve gleaned over the years. I have a varied set of Clover and Elle hooks (similar to Clover, but the grip is longer) and Bamboo hooks. My Tunisian hooks are Bamboo…love them! We don’t have the variety that you have, so it all makes interesting reading! 🤔
This was the most informational “lesson” for me so far. I am in the boye camp, but am really wanting to try the clover amour hooks. I have a few plastic hooks but did not like how they felt with a acrylic yarn. Felt sticky is the best way I can describe my experience. Thank you so much. You taught me a lot I didn’t know about hooks and I’ve been crocheting many years!
Hey! I started following Toni on YouTube . Toni you have taught me so much up to this point about the importance of the right hook for the right job. I watch your hook tutorial. I learn right away to give up the hooks that are painful to use. I am keeping Grammies hook she gave me years ago (G) for sentimental reasons but that doesn’t mean I have to use it. It is the perfect size for small hands to learn small crafts (I have a grandson).
Bring on more Lady Toni!!!!
Thanks, Toni. Very informative. I have been using ergonomic hooks made by Leither Co. They are the matt finish clover hooks with a hand turned wooden handle. Not only are they comfortable, they are gorgeous! Ashley Leither is an Indy dyer and her husband Eric turns the hooks. They are my favorite, by far. I have tendinitis in my right wrist and arthritis in my right thumb. These allow me to crochet virtually pain free.
I have many (too many) different types of hooks, and, of them all, Clover hooks are my absolute favorite. I just love the way they “ grab” the yarn and glide thru stitches. Your lessons are so seriously good, Toni. You are indeed the Queen of crochet as far as I am concerned.
This was the best one yet, Toni! I have some Clover Amour as well as the Tulip Etimo set. I think Im one of the few people that prefer the Tulips over Clover. The Clover hooks are so smooth but the little Clover logo on the front rubs my hand funny so using them irritates my skin after awhile.
I love my Furls! That said…the Odyssey and I are not having the best time. My hand tends to drift down the hook to where I’m holding it very close to the shank and it feels awkward. That said the hook itself is beautiful and very sharp.
I began to use the Crochet Amour after you recommended them. Thank you!!!! For a person with joint pain, these babies are the best! I can crochet for so much longer now. Loving Crochet Academy. Sending hugs…
Love this blog post with its wealth of information on hooks! I am an experienced crocheter and I learned a lot. I totally agree that you really do just need to try out different hooks and see what works for you. I am one of those crazy Furls devotees and I just wanted to share my Furls advice. As a person who has arthritis, the Furls have been a lifesaver for me and my crochet addiction. LOL! The resin hooks are great but I have broken them in smaller sizes. I would not go smaller than a G+ in the resin and also do not use them to make amigurumi because of the tightness of your stitches (I have broken two Furls resin hooks doing amigurumi.) I have the Furls Odyssey in every size available and love them all. They are a heavier hook but, despite my expectations when I first started using them, I find that they are really comfortable in my hand. And boy do I love my hot pink ones!! I have a few wooden Furls but find that I do not reach for them as much. They are lovely, though, I just prefer the Odyssey or the resin. Their tunisian crochet hooks and knitting needles are gorgeous, too! Thanks, Toni, for Crochet Academy and everything you do to educate the world about crochet!
Today I learned a lot more toward understanding inline vs tapered vs hybrid. I am excited to get out my hooks and see what I have been gravitating toward. I never knew that difference! I also have noticed that I currently prefer hooks that don’t have the thumb rest, while when I started, I liked it. I wonder if that will change back and forth over time, or if I like it better one way with certain projects and the other way with others. Thank you, Toni!
Hooks are 100% preference. I am a Boye girl but my hands were aching after crocheting for hours on end. I tried an original Furls and couldn’t even begin to use it because of the end. Finally switched the resin Streamline Furls and I love them with my whole heart!
What I like best about your advice and reviews is that you give your honest opinion and that you are unbiased. Thank you!
Dear Toni,
I am also a huge fan of Clover Amour hooks! It is so comfortable to use them for a longer time. When I started out crocheting, I tried cheaper hooks. Now I see and especially feel the difference!
Thanks for your great tips!
Anke
This info on hooks was a full course meal!
Thanks for feeding me so well!!!!
woah I had no idea about the plastic hook/acrylic yarn thing. I don’t use plastic hooks anyway but still, that’s crazy 😮
I had a whole set of Boye hooks but after trying Clover I’m never going back lol.
I quickly bookmarked this day’s lesson for all the cool links! I paused the lesson to go drool over FURLS! I’m learning, so right now I’m solid Team Bates for now. However, once I get a bit better, I’ll be investing in some ergonomic hooks. THANKS AGAIN for this academy!
This post was very helpful. I love using the Clover and Boye hooks.
This post was very helpful. I love using the Clover and Boye hooks.
Thank you for taking the time to provide us with this information. It is helpful. I like using Clover and Boye hooks.
The crochet hooks chart is really handing and and I never used a plastic crochet hooks except for Denise (my boyfriend got it for valentine’s day gifts). I have used metal and trying bamboo.
I’ve been using a set of super cheapie hooks since I started crocheting a few months ago. They looked like Clover Amour hooks and I was bamboozled, dazzled by their tiny price tag. Since I got a 50% off coupon from JoAnn’s, I sped to the store and picked up a set of *real* Clover Amour hooks. HOLY LIGHTWEIGHT GLIDE BATMAN!! They are a COMPLETELY different crocheting experience. You are so right. Don’t waste $ on cheapo hooks!
I definitely want to try the Furls hooks. I’m #TeamBates. I like for the head to have a point and I think it’s because I’m a tight tension crocheter. I always have to go up a size or two. This post answered the all of my questions about hooks. Thanks Toni!
Thanks to this detailed information, I am going to try a wooden hook for my next project with slippery yarn! I am really enjoying reading through this series 🙂
This article just totally changed my learning. I ordered some Susan Bates and it’s like magic. thank you so much!
It’s so funny this is the next post. This past Sunday I ordered the clover 10 set hooks and the clover larger hooks. They were on sale and I thought it was time I upgraded from the cheaper hooks I use since I crochet every day. I didn’t get the smaller size clover hooks as I’m not sure I would use those as often as the other set. As always an amazing blog post. Thanks Toni
As a knitter the first two blog posts covered a lot of familiar (but always interesting) territory for me. But wow, today’s post is an absolute treasure trove of helpful, totally new information! I bought a set of the Clover Amour hooks and I absolutely can’t wait to start using them. ❤️
I’m so glad to hear that you found the posts helpful. There’s a surprising amount of info pertinent to knitters and crocheters, but we’re heading straight into crochet territory. Enjoy! 🙂
I am team tapered. My hook of choice is the Tulip red. For Tunisian I went all in after watching your video Toni and bought a Denise set. Thanks for doing this Crochet Academy. Love, love, love! Going to make the sweater. My kit came yesterday and it will be my first wearable. So nervous…I’m sure with your instructions I can do it though.
Thank you yet again!! I have Boyes and have enjoyed those but just got some SB aluminum ones to try. Also, super excited that my Clover Tunisian set just came! They are on a major sale on Amazon right now. Can’t wait to learn some Tunisian from you 😁🥳
I love Clover Amour hooks! I have arthritis in my left hand and switching to Clover Amour has helped stop the pain I was having. I really want to try Furls but haven’t bought any yet. Like the idea of buying a few before going all in! Thanks, Toni!!
Wonderful info as usual. I am checking out the indie makers to get some fun hooks as I already have a few sets of regular. It does look like BQueen hasn’t sold any since May. Hopefully they will open up their shop again soon. Off to check out the other indie makers.
I think it was through your recommendation that I tried out Clover Amour hooks and Furls.
My goodness. These tools made me fall in love more with crocheting!
It’s those little things that really matter when it comes to enjoying this craft.
So thank you, you changed my crochet journey for the better. ♥
Wow wow Toni, so much great information. I love how much info you give in a way that all newbie’s can grasp. I am a Boyne user (because that’s what my mother used), but have been branching out to some plastics and wood. Thank you for all the hard work you are putting into this, amazing. I do have a question about hook length, I prefer to have a hook that extends past my hand a bit so the end doesn’t rub on my had, is there such a hook? I usually add a rubber hook wrap that I find at my craft store.
I like Bates hooks and I have various types of them. I found it hard to see the size on all white hooks. To make it easy to see, I dipped the back end of the hook into cocoa, wiped it off well and wrapped a bit of scotch tape over the size. The tape stays in place and doesn’t bother me when I use the hook. I used corn starch on colored plastic hooks.
Let me just say thankful, grateful, blessed! I had quite a list of things I wanted to know and I am just checking them off one by one. You
have put so much effort into breaking down and explaining that my questions are being answered. I am beyond happy that I decided to sign up for Crochet Academy. Thank you!
And again, I had no idea what I didn’t know, but you’ve made me see the light! I just knew that for me Boye hooks don’t work as well as Bates, and my one bamboo hook is still my fave. Now I know why. Thanks again for all you do! Btw, I read this post in your voice in my head. Time to explore some new ergonomic hooks!
I always was convinced I had the full range from Clover Amour (from 0.6mm to 15mm), but thanks to you I’ve discovered that I was missing 4 hooks! (2.25, 2.75, 3.25, 3.75). I’ve always thought that patterns who used those sizes used some weird brand of hook (I actually never heard of those sizes before where I live), but now I know the patterns were right and I’ve been able to add to my Clover Amour crochet hook collection to complete it. (hubby won’t be happy: I’ve got the full CA range, I’ve got Denise Interchangeables, full range of fixed Tunisian hook (mix of KnitPro Trenz and cheap aluminium hooks), I’ve got full range of KnitPro Symfonie interchangeable and double-ended hooks, got a load of obscure aluminium crochet hooks that I’ve been given by people from my town or from church who know I crochet whose elderly mother or grandmother has passed… too many hooks floating around according to my hubby… my best friends and I say: never enough!).
This such a helpful reference! Thanks for such an amazing Free resource:
I am a left-handed crocheter who learned in 4th grade from our PE teacher. I have always had to translate all stitches backwards and tend to move my yarn over my hook rather than moving my hook through the yarn! Your information on yarn weights and hook types/sizes is fantastic.
Your lesson ‘ Crochet Gauge: What Is It And Why It Matters’ was a revelation and I will have to reread it a few times.
Thank you for sharing your vast knowledge with us!
Julie
Toni, I got hooked on Tunisian crochet earlier this summer and started your Ombre Crochet Afghan with a cheap corded hook and then watched your Tunisian hook review. Took me 48 hrs but I caved and bought the Clover set! Best investment in a long while. I am loving them😊
Another great lesson! I actually don’t own any clover hooks and have been wanting to try some. Could not pass up this fine opportunity, thank you Amazon!
Great information all three days so far. I am bookmarking and making posts into reference I can refer back to easily. Unfortunately, my wrist hurts now just reading through this – years of computer and calculator use. However, there is a thrift shop near me that takes in lots of craft supplies and crochet hooks. I think I will try a little hunt to see if I can pick up one or two hooks different from my Boye hooks to test for comfort level before making some other hook style commitment. Appreciating you!
Confession here! I’m a knitter, not a crocheter. I “snuck” over here to attend your academy as many things are parallel between the two yarn arts. I enjoy your YouTube channel and your blog. And who knows, I may take up crocheting by the time the class ends. Carry on! You are a wonderful instructor.
I love my clover hooks. I am learning so much from you!!!! But I knew I would! Love this crocket along so much
I learned on old school aluminum hooks and still enjoy using them. Tried a bamboo hook once, did not care for it.
I have more recently discovered Furls, though, and really like their resin hooks. As one with team pencil grip, it took some getting used to the weight, but overall their performance is great.
Thank you so much for the additional info! I never would have thought that the difference between tapered and inline could have any effect.
Hi Toni! I’ve loved this so far 🙂 Looking forward to continuing the learning!! Thank you so much for putting it all together.
I have one question – how do you feel about the Prym hooks? I have one, a 5mm, and I just can’t seem to crochet well with it. I’ve tried it with a few different types and thickness of yarn, but I just feel like it drags and sticks to the hook making it difficult to work with. Do you have this experience at all – I’m primarily wondering if I got a bum hook somehow haha or if it’s just not meant to be (even though it’s very pretty).
Great question, Helen. I enjoy the Prym hooks, specifically for cotton yarn. The high tension of the plastic hook plays well with the plant fibers in cotton. I don’t use them much for other yarn types. Hope that helps!
I didn’t understand when US makers said a letter for their crochet hooks instead of the number and now I know!. I’ll make good use of that chart.
Hi Toni. I am from India. I absolutely loved your posts for the past three days. I receive your email 2 in the morning here, so I see it the next day. But trust me I am so happy. The information you share here is so useful, I learnt a lot ( when i say a lot i mean it). Thank you. Keep up the good work😊. I am so happy I joined the listing😆😁😊🥰. Bye, have a nice day.😊🥰
Hi, Toni! I’ve been crocheting all my life. Mom taught Grandma, and grandma taught me. I wanted to catch this Crochet Academy from the beginning all the same. I knew that I’d learn something. You are thorough, chirpy, and cheerful as you impart SCADS of info to The Yarn Tribe. The difference between crochet heads and throats helped me to understand how the resulting stitches and the fabric are affected. It’s technical, and the true newbies out there are getting the benefit of some in-depth research. How you FIND all this intel???
Kudos on your format, execution, and production value. I hope you take some time to step back and ponder all you have accomplished before the thing is did and done.
Good job.
Thank you so much – this is a massive compliment. Crochet Academy is one of my proudest moments within TLYC, and the gravity of it is not lost on me 🙂
I have only used metal hooks and I love using them as I fine it a smoother crochet. I think this may come from a place of knitting where i prefer knitting with metal needles as well.
I’m Susan Bates inline fan. I have a set with foam coverings on handles (that’s how they come). So I don’t have to hold tight on the hooks.
Definitely learning a lot, even though I have been crocheting for several years.
Another well written piece, lots of great information. I LOVE my Clovers and only use these hooks! Tried others but can’t achieve the tension and enjoyment of crocheting when I am using anything other than my Clovers.
Hi Toni.
Before I found you…I know, you weren’t lost ;-)…I purchased a crochet kit by BeCraftee.
Being new to crochet, I truly didn’t know what I was doing AND I didn’t want to make a large investment until I learned more.
Have you ever reviewed these crochet hooks? If so, would you point me to your review? If not, would you mind sharing your thoughts on BeCraftee?
I have done well with them thus far, BUT I don’t know what I don’t know as these are the only hooks I’ve ever used.
Thanks in advance for responding!
Hi Kunita – I’ve see the BeCraftee hooks on Amazon but I haven’t tried them. My advice is – if you enjoy them, stick with them. Thankfully, crochet hooks don’t have to be expensive to be well made. I would encourage you to try other hooks down the line, just to get a better sense of your personal preferences.
Hello! I am catching up on all the post since Thursday! I had NO idea plastic hooks exist. I have a “braiders ” hand so tension has always been a problem for me. I hope I can ease up and relax soon! 🤣
Hi Toni! I am getting back to this section because after looking at hooks at Amazon vs stores like Joann and Michael’s, (and even the Clover brand site), I am confused about how to spot fakes. I didn’t realize there were places that sold hooks under a brand; but the hooks are counterfeit. Example, after looking at Clover’s website and seeing they are selling the 10 hook set for about 89.00, I was shocked to see on Amazon they are being sold at half the price or less in some cases. Then I started reading the Amazon comments about counterfeit hooks being sold under the Clover name..YIKES! My question to you is, how do you tell the real deal from the counterfeit. Amazon is very convenient way to buy – fast delivery on PRIME and the stores in my area do not have the hooks in stock and their delivery is slow (if it takes more than a couple days to arrive, I consider that slow), HELP!
Now I know! I’ve heard on several videos inline or tapered crochet hooks. Now I know the difference! Also in a hurry to get off work so I can go home and see which ones I have. I recently bought ergonomic hooks and love them. But I also have several steel and aluminum hooks but can’t remember which I bought Boye or Bates. I recently bought some bamboo tunisian hooks I haven’t tried yet. And I must look for some of those gorgeous Indie hooks! Thank you for the great info, Toni!
Again, a great topic summary, thank you so much Toni! I would like to add that the Clover Amour set is different in Europe than in the USA. Here we have nine needles in a set, it does not include 2.25, 2.75, 3.25 and 3.75 mm hooks, but it does have a 2mm, 2,5mm, and 3mm hook. I added the missing American versions to my European set, and now I have a complete collection of 13 Clover Amour hooks (not including the jumbos and the steels). Intermediate sizes often come in handy.
Actually…as somebody who holds the pencil way, I don’t find the Clover Amour comfortable! They hurt my hands enough that after a part of a project, I just gave mine away. Not a total loss – I love other hooks like Prym and Furls – but if you hold like a pencil, might be worth keeping in mind. Obviously mileage varies, and I have hands on the smaller side that are already prone to tendonitis and carpal tunnel, so it’ll really depend.
I tried crochet years ago when I was living somewhere else and was going to a meetup to meet new people. My hooks were metal and I got constant hand cramps from them so needless to say the crochet bug didn’t bite me. Fast forward almost two decades later I started back knitting last year and now I wanted to expand my fiber arts knowledge by trying my hand at crochet again. Especially with these different kinds of hooks, metal, wood, resin, ERGONOMIC (yay!!). One of my besties has been crocheting since 2020 and she has some ergonomic hooks that I’ve put in my hand and liked. I fell in love with Furl’s hooks last year watching a Youtuber AltKnots. Love the aesthetic so I have a few of them but want to use them. For this class I got a set of Prym ergonomic (yay again) hooks because I liked their ergonomic knitting needles so much.
Thanks for the lowdown on the variety of hooks and what they’re used for not to mention the chart with the US and the UK versions of size.
I do have a question though: why does the size 7 not have a letter designated for it? I heard somewhere recently that 7 was a bit hard to come by though I’ve seen them in stores and online so I don’t know why poor 7 doesn’t have a letter buddy?
lol it’s quite odd that a 7 hook (4.5mm) doesn’t have a letter assigned. But neither does the 10.75 (7mm) hook. It’s quite weird.
OMG finally I understand the whole drama with inline vs tapered. I don’t have that kind of preference yet but now I understand what they mean. Thank you!
Toni, I have so enjoyed these posts! A wealth of information. Thank you for all you do. I’ve been trying my hand at crochet for about 3 months now & still trying to figure out the best hooks. I’ve got Susan Bates, Boyle, a full set that was inexpensive & Prym. I also just received a Tunisian hook yesterday. I got interested in the Tunisian when I saw one of your videos. You make everything so easy to understand & I love the closeup in your videos. Thank you again so much! Now to catch yesterday’s. Oh and I forgot to mention that a lot of yarn I have has come from online auctions or Marketplace on FB. I also got my Susan Bates, & Boyle on the auction. Sure saves money since I’m trying to find a hook that works well. So far for me it’s the Boyle. They are so smooth to me. Thanks again!😊
My favorite hooks to use are the Hiya Hiya and Lykke. They both just glide across the yarn and do not cause me any hand or arm fatigue while crocheting. Thanks for such great articles too, I am looking forward to more of your classes.
Toni,
Thanks so much for once again offering such helpful and encouraging information for this community! Hooks, hooks, hooks! I have so many hooks! From teeny tiny lace hooks my great grandmother used, to hooks hand-carved by my husband and grandson. I have customized my older aluminum hooks with Fimo clay to fit my fingers comfortably, and lovingly protect my Furls in individual boxes. My very favorite hooks are Addi straight handle and olive wood handle hooks. I love them because I can roll the handles as I stitch, making my stitching effortless. They are not always easy to find, but always worth it when I can add a new one to my collection.
Hi Toni,
Really enjoyed this very informative lesson. I am trying to pick crocheting up after many years (20?) of not touching a hook. I have purchased a few of the Clover hooks and they seem to work fine with the limited time I have used them. I am interested in Anigruimi(sp?) and have bought a couple of books. Can you recommend any books?
Amigurumi is such a wonderful way to get back into crochet – great choice! If I could recommend amigurumi pattern books, I’d go with anything from Lauren Espy.
Great info! My return to crochet after MANY years (and I was never an expert by any means) was the Kima Cardigan. I started on the project using my age old Susan Bates aluminum hooks that I think I inherited from my grandmother, and happened on your review of Clover Amour hooks so I thought I’d give them a try. What a difference! My speed more than doubled and what had been a wrestling match became a smooth waltz.to the finish. Thanks for all this!
I am loving Letto’s Purpleheart hooks! Thinking of making a purchase there. Thank you.
I am learning so much! I learned how to crochet as a kid and keep coming back to it. Now, I feel like I’m really getting the foundational information I need to stick with it and really make the projects I want to make. Thank you!
Thank you so much for this useful information Toni! You are the absolute best and I have learned so much from the academy and your videos. Thank you!!
Hi Toni,
Alot of information today. Learned alot about hooks.
Hey Ms. Toni!
I’ve had a love affair with crochet going back to my childhood. Grandma used to crochet, and while she was making afghans she taught me the basics of single crochet chain stitches. I’ve fiddled with crochet on and off since then, and recently decided that I wanted to learn more and be a “real” crochet-er.
I found your videos and was hooked…especially on tunisian crochet. Oh my word – where has this been all my life!!! Love it!!!!
Thanks to your advice and inspiration my fingers have been busy busy busy! I just purchased one of the kits for Crochet Academy and am enjoying the information you’ve shared so far. Looking forward to more!!
Thank you so much Toni! I am loving this course. You are so clear, well-organized and thorough. I also love the fact that you give candid opinions and advice, which I so appreciate. You are the best!
Hi Toni,
You are truly a very motivating instructor. I have several crochet hooks Susan Bates, Boyer medal and plastic. But my favorites are the Prym ergonomic hooks. The Prym’s longer handle and overall weight of the crochet hook makes crocheting less tiring. Thank you for the wonder information and videos.
Hi Toni thank you so much for the hook reviews. I like the Prym Ergonomics hooks. The length and weight of the hook help reduce hand strain.
I have many different hooks. You’re right, it’s all a matter of how it feels in your hand and the project you’re busy with. I have multiple different hooks in the same size but find that each works well for different projects and with different yarn types. It’s all about trying out the different types. I’m lucky that my local yarn store has a jar of hooks that you can test before committing/purchasing one. Thanks for all the time and effort you put into all this info.
What a genius idea! I wish more yarn stores would follow their lead.
Wow! So much information on crochet hooks! I have learned a lot from this post!
Thank you Toni for spreading the love around – so much information – so much to learn- I have Clover Amour Large Hooks and the yarn just doesn’t glide that well on some hooks – and I just can’t understand why- especially on the 7mm and they squeak
Any tips or recommendation on what to do on these plastic handles ?
Hi Meghna – I have the same issue. I find the plastic hooks squeak a lot with acrylic yarn, especially. I often will use my Susan Bates metal hooks in the larger sizes if that happens.