In the beginning we all start crocheting with a minimal amount of crochet supplies to work with. It has taken me several years to finally be able to say I have everything I need to complete any pattern. I also have many items that are not necessary but definitely makes crocheting easier.
When I first started I had absolutely nothing. I also had little knowledge of what was involved in crochet. I knew I would need some yarn and a crochet hook along with a pair of scissors. For the first few projects the supplies I had was sufficient, but as I started to actually look for patterns and complete tutorials I discovered that I needed to start collecting the supplies required or I would get frustrated really fast.
In today’s post I would like to share what I believe are the most essential supplies required to get started. I would also like to share some things that are not required but definitely handy.
Crochet essentials
There are certain tools that I believe are essential if you are considering crocheting as a new hobby. the beauty of crochet is these items are not overly expensive and will last a really long time. With the exception of yarn (obviously!) you can count on your crochet tools to last for years to come as long as you keep them stored and organized.
Crochet Hooks
This one is probably a given. How would anyone learn to crochet without a crochet hook? My advice is to not overspend on your hook right away. I have discovered that as crocheters become familiar with the art they tend to also begin to choose different types of crochet hooks. Over time they experiment with different brands and types to find the one that is most comfortable for them.
I do recommend that you start with a couple of different hook sizes. For the first few projects my 5mm hook served me well but not all crochet patterns use the same size hook. Hook size will directly affect the final size of the project. If you are making an item that will be worn you will want your final project to be as close to the pattern as possible.
Scissors
Scissors is another item you should always have nearby. I have went through many pairs of scissors. Not just any pair of scissors will do. If your scissors are dull cutting some types of yarn can become really annoying.
I highly recommend that you keep your scissors separate from the household scissors. Most of my scissors have become dull due to cutting plastic and paper. I now keep my scissors with my supplies in a carry bag.
Yarn Needles
Yarn needles are required to finish almost all crochet projects. There will always be tails and ends to weave in. You certainly do not want your project to fall apart.
Yarn needles come in all different sizes. It is helpful to have a variety of sizes on hand especially if you want to use a variety of yarn weights. Just make sure you keep them in a safe place. They have a habit of getting lost.
Stitch Markers
Stitch markers are a most for all crocheters. In the beginning they are great for keeping track of the ends of the rows. Stitch markers can help you keep count in larger projects such as blankets. They are also required if you want to work in continuous rounds.
Your stitch marker can be anything really. You certainly do not have to purchase them right away. I used bobby pins and scrapped yarn prior to purchasing a small packet of stitch markers. These are another item that has a habit of getting lost. it’s best to keep these in a safe place as well.
Non Essential Tools
Like any other hobby crocheters tend to add to their collection over time. They eventually buy new hooks simply for a change and try new gadgets made to improve the experience of working with yarn. Many non essential tools for crochet can be used for knitting or any other yarn art. While they are necessary they are definitely helpful to you as a crocheter.
Yarn Winder
You will eventually begin to accumulate a collection of partially used balls of yarn. If this yarn is not used right away it can become a real mess that I like to call yarn barf. In the beginning I tossed out a lot of yarn because it was so tangled up sitting in a bag or tote. I am sure there are many crocheters who can relate.
My yarn winder is one of my most recent purchases. I am absolutely in love with it. it makes it much easier to store and use the yarn. They come in a variety of sizes. I will definitely be looking into buying a larger one in the near future.
Row Counter
A row counter is helpful when working on patterns that requires you to repeat the same row over and over. They are helpful but definitely not necessary. I kept a tally on a piece of paper before getting my row counter (it just happened to be in a kit I bought). There are also plenty of apps that can be downloaded as well.
Yarn Storage
It doesn’t take long for yarn to start to build up. Even if you only buy for particular projects you still have small amounts of yarn left over. A small tote or carry bag can be helpful in keeping your yarn in one place.
Pom pom Maker
Definitely not an essential tool but it sure is a fun one! I just bought my first pom pom maker last week. My daughter and I have been having a blast making pom poms out of my scrap yarn. You can make a pom pom with cardboard or even a fork but the pom pom maker makes it so easy! All my beanies will have pom poms from now on.
The only other essential item required is a comfy chair and some super fun yarn! Grab your hook, choose your favorite t.v show and start creating!
So what is your favorite crochet tool? Feel free to leave a comment below with your recommendations.