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Crochet Hook Information

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Crochet Hook basics

The first thing you learn before you start to crochet is the right type of hook to use for each project. Most patterns include the size hook to be used.

Matching a hook size to a thread size or specific type of yarn can vary according to the brand of hook, the type of hook and the gauge of the individual crocheter.

Crochet hooks are sold individually and in sets. I find it is more cost effective to invest in a set of hooks as opposed to buying them individually.

There are a number of specialized types, but the basic hooks are available in steel, aluminum, plastic, acrylic, and wood.

A popular thread size for crocheters who are just beginning to crochet with thread, is thread size 10, used with a U.S. size 7 or 8 steel crochet hook. The higher the number of the thread, the thinner it is.

A popular yarn weight for beginners is worsted weight, using either a 7, 8 or 9 (US) hook.


Photo Credit: Wikimedia

What Are Crochet Hooks?

Crochet Hooks are defined as being a type of needle with a hook at one end used to draw thread through knotted loops. Unlike knitting, only one crochet hook is needed to make crochet stitches.

Steel Crochet Hooks

Steel crochet hooks are smaller and thinner then other types of crochet hooks and are designed to be used with crochet thread.



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Aluminum Crochet Hook Sets

There are two styles of crochet hooks - inline and tapered.

The two main companies that produce these aluminum crochet hooks are Bates and Boye. Bates produces inline crochet hooks, whereas Boye produces tapered.

It is a matter of personal preference which style you prefer.



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Hook Sizes

Hooks come in various sizes (measured in millimetres or fractions of an inch), according to the thickness of the needle. There are several systems of letters and/or numbers that describe the sizing of crochet hooks.

The size of the hook is usually matched with an appropriate ply or thickness of thread or yarn.

Afghan Hook

Working with an Afghan hook forms a stitch that is similar to knitting and is often used for large flat pieces. They characteristically have a knob at one end to keep stitches from falling off.



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Flexible Afghan Hook

The only difference between a regular afghan hook and a flexible one is that the flexible afghan hook has a nylon extension with an end-stopper.



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Bamboo Crochet Hooks

Lightweight to use, and made from high quality bamboo. Bamboo crochet hooks come in the same size format as aluminum hooks.



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Other Uses For Crochet Hooks

Crochet hooks can be used in many instances where it's necessary to pull a string through a hole.

I've started the list, feel free to add your suggestions to it as well!



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Knitters use them

Rumor has it they are great to fix dropped knittin more...3 points

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Finish off projects

Smaller hooks are great for finishing off your cro more...1 point

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Maintain dreadlocks

Use the hook to pull stray hairs back into main dr more...0 points

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Tailors might use them

They can use a crochet hook to thread a drawstring more...0 points

My Other Crocheting Lenses

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Did You Know?

Hook sets make great gifts!

Clover Takumi Getaway Soft Touch Crochet Hooks Gift Set, 8 Sizes

Clover Takumi Getaway Soft Touch Crochet Hooks Gift Set, 8 Sizes

Amazon Price: $37.12 (as of 05/31/2012)Buy Now

Usually ships in 24 hours

Online Resources

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Crochet Guild of America

Complete crochet hook classification and Anatomy o more...0 points

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U.S. Steel Crochet Hook Size Matched To Approximate Thread Size To Use

A chart that can be helpful in deciding upon a hoo more...0 points

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Crochet Hook Conversion Chart

Finding the correct size for your specific needs i more...0 points

Which Style Hook Do You Prefer?

Comments? Suggestions? This is your chance to sound off!

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  • earthybirthymama Mar 26, 2012 @ 11:57 pm | delete
    Still a beginner crocheter here, love learning about materials and secret crochet code!
  • 24websurf Sep 9, 2009 @ 12:08 pm | delete
    My grandmother taught me to crochet and I have several of my own designs from the age of 11 or so. I use a "G" Afghan hook, but it has been so long I had forgotten about thread sizes. Great job! Thank you for reminding me I need to get back to this.
  • boutiqueshops Sep 8, 2009 @ 9:46 pm | delete
    Fantastic job! Detailed information for all crocheters. I love crochet!
  • momto4 Sep 5, 2009 @ 11:46 pm | delete
    I can't crochet, but I hope to learn someday. Great lens!
  • Mademoiselle-Crochet Sep 5, 2009 @ 2:07 pm | delete
    So detailed! Thanks for a great read. This lens is jam-packed with such important information for crocheters! Keep up the good work! More than five stars, this one!
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Macs Bio

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This So Crafty page written by

Macs

Hello and welcome! My name is Tammi, but you can call me Tam to keep it simple.
I'm married and currently living in Washington. We have 3 cats and a dog;... more »

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