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Essential Crochet Tools

Cheryl Dennett
Every hobby has tools that are required to enable the hobbyist to perform well. Crocheting is no exception to this rule. Here is a short list of tools that you will need before you being creating hand-made objects for you and your family to enjoy.

Scissors are a must for any person who wishes to crochet. There are many types to choose from. And, they come in many sizes. Be sure the scissors you choose to keep in your tool bag are comfortable and are a good for your hands.

Another essential tool for the crochet enthusiast is the tapestry, or yarn, needle. These are large blunt-tipped sewing needles. They can be used to sew two pieces of crocheted fabric together, such as a hood onto a sweater. These needles are also handy tools to use to weave in the ends of yarn. They come in several sizes. It is advisable to have at least two different sizes in your tool collection.

Measuring tools make crocheting much easier. And, there will be less temptation to guess at amounts that are required to do specific patterns. A tape measure and a ruler are both excellent tools. A sliding gauge sewing ruler can also come in very handy.

A metal hook gauge can also come in very handy in your crochet tool bag. Some hooks that you will find do not have the size on them. To be sure you are using the correct size crochet hook that is called for in your pattern, you will need a hook gauge. The holes are marked with both US and metric terms. To use the gauge, just slide the hook into the holes until you find the one that is the same size as your hook.

When you are working on an item that needs to have a count of stitches or rows, stitch marker will be very useful. They come in a variety of styles, with some of them being quite fancy. The round markers work better for knitting. However, for crochet, be sure to get a type that can be opened so you can hang them on the appropriate stitches.

A row counter can come in handy if you are working on a large project that has many rows. It is also needed if each row of the pattern is different, which makes it more difficult to keep your place. Sometimes, the yarn you are using for your crochet project makes it quite difficult to count the completed rows.

Obviously, you will need a variety of crochet hooks in different sizes. To keep them handy and easy to find, use some type of storage unit. They can be kept in a pencil cup on your desk. Or, you can purchase holders at your local craft store. There are even patterns to sew your own, which leaves much room for personalization.

A latch hook can be useful to the crocheter, as well. It can be used when the yarn is too short or bulky to fit into a yarn needle. These are easy to find at your local craft store and are usually relatively low cost.

Crocheting can be a wonderful and relaxing hobby. And, you have the added benefit of producing lovely items that can be used around the home. Hopefully, this list of tools will help you be successful in your crocheting endeavors.

Published by Cheryl Dennett

In my mid 40's, college graduate, out of a job thanks to the wonderful state of the economy. I enjoy researching topics I am interested in and sharing the knowledge I have found. I have been a member of the...  View profile

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