The trick? Having the right tools without overcomplicating things
I’m currently teaching myself to crochet after many years as a knitter. I’ve always loved how versatile crochet looks from structured garments to intricate textures and wanted to see if I could learn it myself. To get started, I picked two simple projects: the “Halle Tee” by The Crafty Stitch (who also have a brilliant YouTube channel), and a jumper with a tutorial by Jeggocrochet whose knitting pattern I actually used for all my Christmas jumpers last year. So far, I’m getting the hang of it, although I’ll admit the language feels completely different from knitting at times.
Because I wasn’t sure if crochet would stick, I began with the bare minimum of tools. It didn’t take long to realise what I actually needed and what I didn’t and that’s exactly what inspired this blog to help new and returning crocheters avoid buying things they simply don’t need.
1. Your main tool is a crochet hook
Don’t be tempted to buy a 30 piece crochet hook kit like I did!
Start with these 3 sizes and go for metal or a soft grip hook if you need it to be easier on your hands:
- 4.00mm
- 5.00mm
- 6.00mm
Clover Easy Grip Hook 6mm
Clover is a very popular brand with the crocheting community
PONY Alumumnium Hook 4.00mm
Pony is a great value brand that also do knitting needles
2. Which yarn?
Not all yarn is beginner friendly, start off with:
- Medium weight (worsted/aran) double is knit is slightly lighter which is also an option
- Smooth textured, avoid fluffy or novelty yarns
- Light or medium colours so you can see your stitches, trust me on this, however much you want a black jumper don’t do it yet!
- Cotton is great for structure and acrylic is very budget friendly and easy to care for
3. A pair of decent scissors
Fiskars are my favourites I have a large and small pair, the small pair are perfect for crochet use
4. Yarn or tapestry needle
- I have just discovered the needles with bent edges and for me they have upped my game when sewing up my projects especially when using a blanket stitch
- If you prefer straight needles then go for it
5. Stitch markers
I have used stitch markers in my very first project so I would say they are a must, but you can use safety pins or bits of yarn
6. Measuring tape
A tape is a crocheting must have, I prefer the retractable type, it’s used to:
- Check gauge, which I never do, but that’s for another day!
- Measure adjustments you’ve made
- Check length/width of rows completed
Final Thoughts
As someone who’s recently started learning crochet, I’ve realised how easy it is to overthink what you need before you begin. If you’re new to crochet, it’s tempting to assume you need a full set of tools, but in reality, starting with the basics makes learning far more manageable.
Coming from knitting, I expected to need lots of new equipment. Instead, keeping things simple has made the biggest difference. If you’re learning how to crochet for beginners, focusing on just a hook, some yarn, and a few basic stitches is more than enough to get started.
I’m still learning the terminology and figuring out what works best, but starting small has made the whole process more enjoyable. Crochet isn’t just about making things either, it’s a relaxing, mindful hobby that can help reduce stress while allowing you to create something you’re genuinely proud of.
