Introduction to Crochet: Tools You Need To Get Started

Before You Begin:
Tools & Materials

Welcome to my Introduction To Crochet series! I hope these photo tutorials and step by step instructions will help you learn to crochet. Before we get started though, I'll tell you what tools you'll need to start the series.

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• Hook. For any project, you'll need a hook! Now which hook you use can depend on several things, including how tight you want your stitches to be and what kind of yarn you are using. Hooks are categorized by their size, in millimeters. Larger hooks are better for thick, bulky yarn, and smaller hook are best for thinner yarns and crochet thread. Whenever someone asks what hook they should start with, I always recommend a size H (5mm) hook, because that's what I started with; it's not too big or too small! There are two types of hooks: tapered hooks or in-line hooks, which just means that the hook ends are shaped a bit differently. I prefer Boye brand tapered hooks, but find out which works best for you! You can also get hooks with grips on them for comfort.

• Yarn. Picking your yarn is the fun part! You can get any kind you like, but I recommend starting with a medium (4) weight yarn. Medium yarn also pairs great with a 5mm hook. I also recommend avoiding textured yarn/fun fur yarn until you are more comfortable with crocheting, as they can be a little tricky to work with. Yarn is categorized by thickness, and they are generally ranked from 0 to 6. You can find a yarn's category on the label. The categories are as follows: 
• 0 - Lace weight
• 1 - Super fine
• 2 - Fine
• 3 - Light
• 4 - Medium
• 5 - Bulky
• 6 - Super bulky

• Scissors. You don't need fancy or expensive scissors, as long as they are clean and cut well!

• Measuring tape. Measuring tape is a really important tool for measuring gauge. You won't need it to start with, but when you make your first real project, you'll definitely want to be sure that your project is coming out the right size. Don't worry, we'll cover gauge later!

• Tapestry needle/Yarn needle. Yarn needles come in metal or plastic and are used for weaving in ends after finishing, or for sewing two pieces together. It's not something that we'll use right away, but it's an important tool for a crocheter to have, and you'll want to have one handy when we cover finishing techniques. 

That's all you'll need to teach yourself how to crochet with this series! Have fun picking your yarn, and I'll see you again for the first tutorial here: Introduction To Crochet: Slip Knot & Chain Stitch