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What kind of crochet hook do I need?

If you are looking for a crochet hook, there are a lot of them on the market. For a beginner it can be tricky to understand what kind of hook to buy and what will suit you best. You might even be an experienced crocheter who wants to upgrade from the simplest kind of hook, but you’re feeling a little overwhelmed by the choices.

We’re here to help! Below we break down crochet hooks by type and material, and explain when you might want to use them.

We also have a similar guide for knitting needles.

Crochet hook types

Single ended hooks

This is the most well known type of crochet hook. It’s made up of a straight handle with a hook at one end.

You use these for most types of traditional crochet, working one chain at a time.

Double ended hooks

This time the handle has a hook at each end. Each hook is a different size, so you get two sizes in one.

You can use this type of hook for working with two different colours or for working in a circle.

Afghan/Tunisian crochet hooks

This category covers a few different kinds of unusual hooks which are called different things by different people.

Tunisian crochet works a little differently than standard crochet, as you keep the loops on the hook, like you would in knitting. For this reason these hooks are usually longer than a typical crochet hook. You’ll also hear them called tricot hooks.

You can also get interchangeable hooks. At first glance these look like a single ended hook, with a handle and single hook at one end. However if you look closer you’ll notice that the opposite end of the handle ends in a metal tip. You can use this type of hook like a conventional hook, or you can attach a knitting needle cable to them like you would to an interchangeable circular needle. This allows you to hold far more stitches and work on bigger projects.

Crochet hook materials

Wood

A wooden crochet hook can be made from different types of wood, and everybody has their own favourite. Wooden hooks are usually warmer to the touch so they can feel more comfortable to use for longer periods. This is also good if you have any dexterity issues or joint problems like arthritis. The surface of wooden hooks will be smooth but may have a little bit more grip than metal.

KnitPro Basix

Basix hooks are made from birch which is the most economical type of wood available.

KnitPro Symfonie and KnitPro Ginger

Laminated birch – found in the KnitPro Symfonie and Ginger ranges – is stronger than typical birch so the hooks are longer lasting. They’re also a little smoother than ordinary birch.

KnitPro Bamboo

Bamboo wood is well known for its strength while remaining affordable. The KnitPro Bamboo range is made from high quality Japanese bamboo.

Metal

Crochet hooks come in a range of metals, from cheap and cheerful steel to more high quality aluminium. A metal crochet hook tends to be less grippy than wood but more lightweight in your hand, which prevents fatigue if you're working for a long time. They also tend to be longer lasting as they're harder to break.

KnitPro Zing and KnitPro Waves

Aluminium is extremely lightweight while being strong and flexible. Zing is made from high-grade aluminium and colour-coded by size. Waves have an aluminium tip but the handle is made from soft rubber, which we know from personal experience is far more comfortable to grip if you're going to be working for a while.

KnitPro also offer other hooks outside the of the core ranges, made in aluminium and steel.

Plastic

The most affordable hooks are usually made of plastic. They are lightweight and have a little more grip than metal. However they aren’t as long lasting and more likely to break.

KnitPro Trendz

Trendz are made from colourful acrylic. They’re very economical and colour-coded by size.

Can we help you choose a crochet hook?

If you're unsure of what you need, a more economical range is your best bet to start with. Get a hook each in wood (KnitPro Basix) and metal (such as KnitPro Zing) to see which material you prefer. Then if you want to, you can try the fancier ranges in that colour and style, you really, really want.

To explore the different ranges further, we've put together a handy comparison guide.

If you're still stuck or having trouble deciding - get in touch with us! We'll be happy to give you advice.

If you can, come see us at a yarn show. There's nothing like holding the hooks in your hands to see how they feel. Bring a pattern, bring your yarn - if we're not too busy we'll even let you take a crochet hook for a quick test drive. Find out where we're going to be and come cop a feel!