All about the Crochet Hook

Dear Readers,

All about the Crochet Hook- Crochet hook is the only & very important tool in crocheting, so it makes sense to give some time to understand all about it. This will be series of posts which will not only help you to understand the anatomy of crochet hook but also the materials along with their pros and cons which are very important to decide which hook to buy from dozens of hooks that you see the market.

This series will also cover the conversions and special types of hooks like steel hooks, Afghan, double sided hook which are required for special type of projects. So by the end of this series you will never have to worry which hook to use for what type of project, do you have it or need to buy it, why your hand are getting cramped up or which material crochet hook to use if you are suffering from arthritis or numb hands…etc.

First understand that although Crochet Hooks basically look similar, they are not all the same. There are some varying features that can make your crochet experience pleasurable or a hindrance and may be causing your crochet experience to become a discouraging exercise in your life.

All about Crochet Hook:

Let us begin with basics anatomy (the terminology). No matter which hook you choose there are five basic parts to a crochet hook. Each part has a role in making crochet stitches. Once you understand the function each part has to perform – it will make choosing your crochet hook easier.

1. Head/ Point/ Hook 

The Head/Point or some people even call it only as hook (see picture above); of the crochet hook is used to catch the yarn and thread. It is also the part of the hook that pokes into the stitch and pulls the yarn through the stitch. If you examine your hook more closely you will see that your hook is either Inline or Tapered.

An Inline hooks means the head of the hook is inline with the rest of the hook.(example Susan Bates).

A Tapered hook is not inline with the rest of the hook. (example Addi).

Next this is the point of the head. The Susan Bates has a more pointed hook while the Addi is more rounded.

Note: These things will change your speed of crocheting and comfort but there is no universal rule, its more subjective so you need to try and decide which type of hook makes you comfortable to crochet. Its also a personal decision based on your taste, likes and dislikes.

2. Throat

The throat (see picture above) is the shaped section that guides the yarn or thread up into the working area. This groove is what catches your yarn as your pull it through the loop. The throat in some hooks are more tapered then others.

Note: If you are one of these crocheter that often snag or finds themselves splitting yarn then you might want to try a more tapered throat (example Susan Bates) but, on the other hand if you find yourself constantly dropping loops or constantly popping your hooks out of your works you might wish to try a less tapered throat (example Addi)

3. Shank or Shaft

The Shank or the Shaft (both terminologies are correct) is the section that determines hook size. When you read the size on your crochet hook, for example H8/5.00 mm; this is telling you that the Shank is 5.00 mm in diameter of your hook. The diameter will determine the how large the finished stitch will be.

You’ll notice the difference in Susan Bates and Addi hooks as to the size of the shaft. Susan Bates has a very short shaft, whereas Addi has a longer shaft.

Note: This is the part where you need to be very careful while buying and using the crochet hook. This is the part which decides how your crochet item will ultimately come out so use right size hook as mentioned in the pattern to get perfect gauge. Try with both short and long shaft hook and decide your preference. 

4. Grip or the Thumb Rest

The Grip, or what some people refer to as the Thumb Rest is the section intended for gripping the hook with your thumb and index or middle finger. It is also the place you will find your crochet hook size printed.

Not all crochet hooks have a grip (thumb rest). Some are straight or made in other ways, such as the wooden, rubber or clay hooks.

5. The Handle

The handle is the end that is held by the crocheter. Some handles are shorter or longer depending on what you prefer.

This is often the part of the hook where hook designers let their creativity flow. Many small business owners take aluminum hooks and add clay handles in various colors and designs.

There is also a line out now by a major manufacturer featuring hooks with bamboo handles. A very popular hook is the Clover Hook, which features a light, easy to hold and well balanced handle. These are nice to work with as they are kind to your fingers. These can also be the same size as the rest of the hook which is great for most crocheters.

However in some case a larger handle (example Ergonomic Handles) would be more recommended for some crochets who suffer with arthritis or stiffness and pain in their hands after crocheting.

Finding the right hook will not only make your crocheting experience better but will also help you to crochet your best. There is still a lot to know about the Crochet Hook, but I don’t want you to get overwhelmed by all information at ones. Let us learn step by step.

Till then,

Happy Crocheting!!!

(Note: Some links in this post are affiliate links. Read our Policies, Disclosures and Disclaimers)