In this post, we’ll chat about the best crochet tools. Some of these are tools and materials you’ll absolutely need to get started crocheting (like hooks, tapestry needles, and scissors), while others are fun bonuses that will make your crochet life easier. We won’t get too deep into yarn, but scroll down to learn about all the other essential crochet tools.
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Where do you buy crochet tools & supplies?
You can purchase essential crochet tools, supplies, and materials online or in person. Any brick and mortar craft store (Michael’s, JoAnn Fabrics, etc.) will sell crochet hooks and tools, as will local yarn shops and even WalMart and the Dollar Tree. Personally, I’m a HUGE fan of online shopping for yarn and crochet supplies. It’s convenient and there are more options available, especially if you live in rural areas (or you’re lazy like me 😘).
My favorite places to buy crochet tools online are:
- WeCrochet / KnitPicks – you can find crochet hooks, notions, accessories, books, and tons of yarn. WeCrochet and KnitPicks will ship to the USA, Canada, Australia, and the UK.
- Furls Fiberarts – Furls sells luxury crochet hooks as well as notions like needle and hook cases, an icord maker, and gorgeous leather project bags.
- Amazon – Amazon is not always the cheapest place to purchase crochet tools, but if you have Prime it’s often the most convenient.
- Etsy.com – When you want handmade, unique, or custom crochet tools — head over to Etsy!
What tools do you need for crochet?
Obviously yarn is critical for crocheting, but it’s not really a “tool,” so we won’t go much into detail about it here. The type of yarn you use will depend on the project you want to make, as well as your personal preference. Typically the pattern you choose will recommend the best type of yarn for you to use.
Instead of yarn, this article will cover everything else you’ll need to crochet — all the tools, notions, materials, and accessories.
We’ll start with the crochet tools you’ll absolutely need (like hooks, tapestry needles, and scissors), then cover the fun stuff that can help improve your craft or make crocheting a bit easier (like icord tools and pom pom makers).
What are the five basic crochet materials?
If you only buy five crochet tools, you’ll need a hook, yarn, tapestry needle, scissors, and stitch markers to get started crocheting. I’d argue that beginners also need a sixth tool — a crochet pattern! When you have these essential tools, you’ll be well on your way to crocheting a variety of patterns and projects.
How much do crochet tools and accessories cost?
If you start off with the absolute basics (a hook and yarn), you can start crocheting for less than $10. If you’d like to crochet a few beginner patterns, check out the 30 Day Newbie Series. The full supply list (including yarn) costs around $50.
Like many hobbies, if you want to invest a lot of money into crocheting, you totally can! Luxury hooks, fancy crochet tools, and hand-dyed yarn add up quick. 😉
Essential Crochet Tools & Materials
These are the absolute must have crochet tools for beginners. If you have a limited budget and want to get started ASAP — start here. Further down the list, we’ll talk about nice-to-have tools and just-for-fun tools, but these babies are the most important. You can’t crochet without these six tools!
If you’re just getting into crocheting, these six are the tools you’ll need to get started. Plus yarn, of course!
1. Crochet Hooks! The most important crochet tool.
Crochet literally means hook, so if you only buy one tool, it needs to be a crochet hook. You can grab them in all different sizes, from itty bitty crochet hooks to jumbo fatties. Typically, the size of hook you use will coordinate with your yarn. Thinner yarns require smaller crochet hooks (I used a 2.5 mm hook for the Flower Earrings pattern), while super bulky yarns require bigger hooks (like the 12 mm I busted out for the Mystic Ripple Blanket).
Crochet hooks are typically made of metal (like aluminum), plastic (like acrylic or resin), wood, or some combination (like a metal tip with plastic grip). When you’ve crocheted for long enough, you’ll have a whole collection of hooks that spans all the sizes and materials.
How many hooks do you need to crochet?
You only need one crochet hook to get started crocheting. However, having a few hook sizes will let you work with different types of yarn and crochet patterns.
In the 30 Day Newbie Series, we use two hooks (H 5.0 mm and J 6.0 mm) to crochet beginner’s patterns with worsted weight yarn.
If you’re serious about crocheting, I recommend buying a set of 8-10 hooks so you have a variety of sizes to start with. This will get you ready for most of the patterns you’ll come across. I love the Bright Hook Set (~$10) and the Dots Hook Set (~$30) from WeCrochet.
What crochet hooks are most comfortable?
The crochet hook you find most comfortable will all depend on your preferences and how you hold your crochet hook. Personally, I prefer ergonomic hooks with chunky handles as they’re more comfortable for me. My hand cramps when I use thin hooks, and it’s gotten worse as I’ve gotten older. Everyone is different though — so try out a few types of hooks to see what works best for you.
Basic Crochet Hooks vs Upgrades and Luxury Hooks
There are three main price points for crochet hooks: basic hooks (typically $10-$30 for a set), mid-range or upgraded hooks ($30-$100 per set), and luxury hooks. The price of luxury hooks depends on the type you purchase.
- Basic Hooks: If you’re just starting out, grab a set of beginner hooks for $10 – $30. I love the Bright Hook Set ($10) and Dots Hook Set ($30) from WeCrochet.
- Upgraded Hooks: If you want to upgrade your crochet hooks, the Clover Amours are a fancier version of ergonomic hooks with grips. They have rave reviews! Clover Amour hooks run about $10 each or $80 for the set, but they’re often on sale for less.
- Luxury Hooks: Once you get going with crochet, you might find that you want to treat yourself to a luxury crochet hook. My favorite luxury hooks are from Furls Fiberarts. I have wood Streamlines and Alphas, resin Streamline Swirls, and metal Odyssey hooks. They’re all beautiful, comfortable, and look amazing in Instagram photos.
2. Yarn Needles or Tapestry Needles – The crochet tool for weaving in those pesky ends
A tapestry needle or yarn needle is a large, blunt needle with a wide eye. Other than a hook, a yarn needle is probably the crochet tool you’ll use most often. When crocheting, you’ll use your tapestry needle to weave in ends and join pieces together for amigurumi or larger projects.
Tapestry needles can be metal or plastic, and I have both. However, I prefer metal. Metal needles are sturdier and longer lasting than plastic.
Grab a set of metal tapestry needles from Amazon — they’re inexpensive and several come in each pack.
What’s the difference between yarn needles and sewing needles?
Yarn needles are bigger than standard sewing needles, so unless you’re crocheting with super thin thread, you’ll need to grab some. Plan ahead and order a bunch of needles — you will definitely lose them. Or maybe that’s just me?
3. Scissors – The Snippy Crochet Tool
Scissors are another essential crochet tool. They’re used to cut the yarn when you’re finished crocheting or when it’s time to change colors. Some people even cut off parts of their project (like sweater sleeves) that they’d like to frog and start over again.
Any scissors will do, and you probably already have a pair at home. Personally, I love to keep a pair of tiny scissors in my notions pouch. Small scissors (less than 4 inches from the pivot point) are also TSA friendly, so you can bring them in your carry-on to crochet when you travel.
My fave is this little purple pair of scissors from WeCrochet (shown above). They come with a safety cover which protects the inside of your bag. If you prefer, there are super cute decorative sewing scissors on Amazon.
4. Crochet Patterns or a Pattern Book
A crochet pattern is a set of instructions that tells you how to crochet a specific project. Patterns can be found in books, online, or in magazines. One day you might feel ready to design your own patterns, but new crocheters usually rely on prewritten patterns.
Check out our free pattern section for lots of options to get you started on your crochet journey!
5. Stitch Markers
Stitch markers are small clips that help you mark specific stitches or sections in your crochet project. You can also use stitch markers for joining together pieces, saving your spot, and so much more. If you want to make your own stitch markers, here’s a fun tutorial. If not, you can buy them here:
- Amazon – great for basic stitch markers in large quantities
- WeCrochet – mix of standard and unique markers
- Etsy Marketplace – lots of unique and handmade options
6. Measuring Tape
A measuring tape is a handy crochet tool that you’ll use all the time. Choose a flexible tape measure that’s about six feet long, like the ones used for sewing. I love a retractable tape measure for my notions pouch. Buy yours here:
- WeCrochet: simple yellow retractable tape measure
- Amazon: lots of retractable measuring tape options
Your tape measure will be useful for crocheting in a few different ways:
- Sizing: Tape measures are especially helpful for size-specific patterns like garments. Use your measuring tape to determine the size of your crochet project, or the size of the person for whom you’re crocheting.
- Checking gauge: Gauge doesn’t matter for every crochet project, but when it matters, it REALLY MATTERS. Using a crochet tool like a tape measure to measure gauge can be the difference between a sweater that fits your dog and a sweater that fits your dad.
- Adjusting patterns: Some patterns are written to let each person customize their size, either for the whole pattern or for certain parts (like the torso or sleeves). This can be great, but you’ll definitely need a measuring tape to get the right size.
- Measuring progress: A measuring tape is also good for keeping track of your progress as you crochet. Use yours to measure the length of a scarf as you work, or to see how much of a blanket you completed during Bachelor in Paradise.
Nice-to-Have Crochet Tools and Gadgets
This collection of crochet tools includes materials you’ll definitely want one day, but can technically crochet without. For example, you can’t really crochet without a hook, but you can crochet without a hook case. If you’re a brand new crocheter, you can save these tools for your birthday or Christmas wishlist.
7. Crochet Hook Case or Organizer
Crochet hook storage is critical for crocheters, especially as your hook collection grows. With a crochet hook case, you can store all of your hooks in one place and sort them by size, style, whatever. These helpful crochet tools also make for easy travel. Hook cases will usually either roll up or zip to keep your hooks safe inside. Sometimes, hook cases will have handy pockets for your other crochet tools and notions.
Shop my fave crochet hook cases:
- WeCrochet: My sparkly silver hook case (shown above) comes in several colors
- Amazon: This sweet sloth case keeps my Furls hooks safe and sound. Technically it’s a colored pencil case, but whatevs.
Crochet hook organizers are more for display purposes and easy access. They might be as simple as a mug on a desk, or as fancy as spinning clear acrylic organizers. Get creative with your hook storage! I’ve seen people use jars, vases, test tube racks, makeup organizers, and more.
8. Crochet Stitch Dictionary, an Underappreciated Tool
A stitch dictionary is a collection of crochet stitches and techniques, usually organized by type of stitch (e.g., lace, textured, closed). They’re useful tools for crocheters of all levels. You can use your stitch dictionary to learn new stitches, brush up on oldies you may have forgotten, or browse for inspiration for your next project. When choosing a stitch dictionary, make sure to find one with clear photos and instructions.
Shop my favorite stitch dictionaries on Amazon:
- Crochet Every Way Stitch Dictionary by Dora Ohrenstein
- Indispensable Stitch Collection for Crocheters by Melissa Leapman
9. Gauge Ruler or Crochet Gauge Swatch Tool
A gauge ruler is a small crochet tool that is used to measure the size and tension of your crochet stitches. Measuring gauge is helpful for smaller projects or blankets, but absolutely ESSENTIAL for wearable items like hats, socks, and sweaters. You can also use a tape measure or standard ruler to check crochet gauge, but a gauge swatch ruler has a 4 x 4 inch window that makes it super easy.
Shop gauge rulers on:
- WeCrochet: two classic options (Clover and wooden gauge ruler)
- Amazon: several basic gauge swatch ruler options
- Etsy: lots of cute wooden options with patterns and designs
10. Notions Pouch for Crochet’s Tiny Tools
A notions pouch is a small bag for storing crochet tools and supplies, like stitch markers, tapestry needles, and scissors. They’re perfect for taking your tiny crochet things on the go, whether you’re traveling, heading to a crochet group, or just shuttling your project from your bed to your couch.
I’ve used a plastic sandwich bag in a pinch, but much prefer actual pouches like these:
- Canvas notion pouch / pencil case: these canvas bags from Amazon are perfect for iron-on vinyl. I made the bag above with my xTool M1.
- Zippered pouch: I have two of these cute zippy pouches from WeCrochet.
11. Project Bag(s) for Your Crochet Projects & Tools
A project bag or tote bag helps hold and organize your crochet projects, tools and supplies. There are a few reasons why a crocheter might want to use a project bag (or bags):
- Convenience: Isn’t it easier when your work-in-progress and all the necessary supplies are together in one place?
- Organization: This handy crochet tool can help keep your crochet projects and supplies organized and tidy. If you have several WIPs going at once, keep each one in a separate bag.
- Portability: If your materials are already in the bag, it’s easy to grab and go! You can crochet on road trips, in the waiting room at the doctor’s office, or at Panera on your lunch break.
- Protection: A project bag can protect your crocheting from pet hair, nibbling, and tangles due to curious pets or kids.
My favorite crochet bag is the Everyday Tote Bag from WeCrochet (shown above). I actually have two — blue and silver (“cloud”). It has cute crochet hook lining and is large enough to fit a whole blanket and extra yarn.
Looking for more options? Head over to Amazon and browse yarny backpacks and bags.
12. Crochet Light or Neck Light – the Crochet in the Dark Tool
A crochet light is a small, portable light that you can use to illuminate your work while crocheting. I use mine for crocheting in the dark, but lights can also be helpful if you crochet with black yarn or have trouble seeing small stitches.
Some people use light-up hooks, but I much prefer a neck light like this rechargeable one from Amazon. I have it in pink (shown above), but there are several color options.
13. Row Counter – “Are we there yet?” Crochet Tool
A row counter is a small device that helps you keep track of the number of rows you have completed while crocheting. This crochet tool can be especially helpful if you are working on a pattern with a large number of rows and want to keep track of your progress.
Grab a row counter on Amazon here.
What tools & accessories can help you crochet?
We’ve talked about which crochet tools are absolutely essential for crocheting, as well as nice-to-have tools that you’ll probably want to purchase soon. This final section includes a collection of tools and materials that will help you crochet better.
Are they critical for crocheting? No. But these tools and supplies will totally help you take your crochet game to the next level.
14. Yarn Bowl – Crochet Tool
Yarn bowls are decorative bowls with a hole or slit in the side. They can be ceramic or made of plastic, wood, aluminum, or metal. A yarn bowl helps wrangle your yarn so it doesn’t roll around on your couch while you crochet.
My yarn bowl is especially helpful when I’m crocheting with two strands at once (like for the Lilac Potholder). Bye bye, tangles!
15. Blocking Mats and Pins
Foam blocking mats are a useful tool for crocheters because they provide a flat, smooth surface for blocking crochet projects. Blocking smooths out your crochet stitches (like for granny squares or blankets), and can also increase the drape and softness of your finished project. It’s super important when crocheting garments or when you want your projects to have a professional finish.
Blocking mats often have a grid or other markings to help you measure and align your project accurately. They are used in conjunction with blocking pins (like T-pins), which you’ll use to shape your project and hold it in place while it dries.
Shop Blocking Mats:
- KnitIQ Blocking Mats & Pins from Amazon: I’ve had this set of blocking tools for a couple years and they’ve been great!
- Premium Blocking Mats: WeCrochet has similar blocking mats on their site.
16. Blocking Clips and Wires
When blocking, you’ll need to place a pin every few inches. This means that large projects like long scarves or shawls may require hundreds of pins. Blocking clips or combs are plastic blocks with several pins, so they minimize how many individual pins need to be placed to shape a project.
Lace blocking wires are thin wires that you can weave through the edges of a project to shape it and hold it in place while it dries. Wires are used in conjunction with pins, but seriously reduce the quantity of pins required to block a project.
Blocking tools for crochet, like clips, combs, and wires, will save time and make it easier to block your projects. If you crochet a lot of things that need to be blocked, they’re so worth the investment!
17. Yarn Soak / Cleaner
Yarn soak, also known as yarn wash or wool wash, is a mild detergent or yarn rinse used to soak and clean your crochet project. It’s often used before blocking. Yarn soak helps clean or soften projects, especially ones crocheted with scratchy wool. If you crochet with natural fibers that aren’t machine washable (like wool), you’ll want to use wool wash to handwash your projects as they can attract dirt and oils over time.
My favorite yarn wash is KnitIQ No Rinse Delicate Wash from Amazon (shown above)
18. Needle Gauge
A needle gauge is a small tool that helps you determine the size of your crochet hooks or knitting needles (if you’re into that). Use your needle gauge if you have a mix of crochet hooks and need to know which size you are using. Some hooks don’t have labels, some only have letters, and some labels can wear down or peel off if you use the hooks frequently.
This needle gauge from Susan Bates is inexpensive and has excellent reviews.
19. Yarn Winder or Ball Winder Tool
A yarn winder is a crochet tool that helps you wind your yarn into a neat, uniform ball or cake. A winder will be helpful if you have a storage system that requires yarn to be the same shape (like a pegboard), if you have unwieldy blobs of yarn, or if you use yarn that comes in a hank (rather than a skein or ball).
I love my KnitPicks yarn winder, which I’ve been using for about three years so far. Grab yours on Amazon or WeCrochet.
20. Yarn Swift – a Spinning Crochet Tool
A yarn swift is a device that holds your hank of yarn in place while you wind it into a ball or cake. It rotates as the yarn unwinds, to help make the winding process go smoothly. If you love hand-dyed yarn, a swift is an absolute must-have crochet tool.
Shop yarn swift options:
- Wooden Umbrella Swift from Amazon: this is my swift, which I picked up in summer 2020.
- Birch Swift from WeCrochet: this birch swift has great reviews. WeCrochet also sells cute swift carrying cases.
21. Project Tags and Labels
Project tags and labels are easy ways to make your projects look more professional, whether for personal use, gift giving, or craft markets. Etsy is the best place to find cute tags and labels for your crochet projects.
- The Knotty Boss – Anna is the queen of printable tags and packaging for crochet markets
- Birch & Cider – custom laser cut tags, labels and patches
22. Tunisian Crochet Hooks
We already talked about standard crochet hooks, but Tunisian crochet is a whole ‘nother ball game. Tunisian hooks are longer and some have wires or cords to extend the length of the hook. In Tunisian crochet, you keep your stitches on your hook (kind of like knitting), so bigger projects like blankets or shawls need longer hooks.
Check out these Tunisian crochet hook options:
- Denise Interchangeable Hooks (Amazon): I have an older set of these in white.
- Clover “Takumi” Interchangeable Set (Amazon): wood will look beautiful in your crochet flatlay pics
- Radiant Tunisian Hook Set (WeCrochet): these colorful cuties have great reviews
23. Pom Pom and/or Tassel Makers
You can make poms and tassels without tools (I often use credit cards or templates cut from cardboard), but if you make a lot then you’ll definitely want to upgrade to an official pom pom or tassel maker. These crochet instruments speed up pom pom making and keep all the strands organized while you tie off your tassel or pom.
Buy your pom pom and tassel makers here:
- Clover Pom Pom Makers on Amazon: this set of four has amazing reviews
- Pom Pom Makers on WeCrochet: several sizes and combo packs
- Clover Tassel Makers on Amazon: two different sizes of tassel makers
- Tassel Makers on WeCrochet: they sell the Clover tassel makers and cute wooden sheep versions
24. Yarn Bobbins – “Keep ’em Separated” Crochet Tool
Yarn bobbins are useful crochet tools for people who do a lot of color work (like tapestry crochet, fair isle, c2c graphs, or intarsia). You wind small amounts of yarn around each bobbin, which helps keep several colors of yarn organized. You can use clothespins or cardboard on the cheap, but bobbins are an upgrade that’s worth it if you love colorwork crochet.
Look at these fun, brightly-colored bobbins from Boye!
Crochet Accessories & Tools Conclusion
That’s all, y’all! If this crochet tools & accessories post was helpful, save and share with fellow crocheters on Pinterest.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What tools do I need for beginner crochet?
If you’re a total crochet newbie, focus on the basics supplies: crochet hook, yarn, scissors, tapestry needle, stitch markers, and a pattern. If size matters for your projects, you’ll also need to grab a tape measure.
Is crocheting an expensive hobby?
Nope, you can get started crocheting for less than $10 if all you buy is a hook and a ball of yarn. However, crocheting can get expensive when you start buying fancy hand dyed yarn and luxury hooks.
What are the two most important tools for crocheting?
A crochet hook and yarn are the two most important tools you’ll need to crochet.
How many tools do you need to crochet?
Five tools + yarn is enough to get you started. Beginners need a crochet hook, tapestry needle, scissors, stitch marker, and pattern.
What are crochet tools names?
The main crochet tool is called a hook and you only need one. This is different than knitting, where the primary tools are a pair of needles.
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