Choosing The Best Beginner Crochet Hook

When choosing your first beginner crochet hook, I recommend that beginners go for a “middle of the road” size hook. This is only my personal opinion. For example a H-8 (5mm) hook, I hook, or J hook. These sizes work well with worsted-weight yarn. They allow you to get comfortable with the look of your stitches while learning to crochet.

No matter the hook you choose, be sure the hook is labeled with both a letter and number size to avoid confusion with the smaller steel looking hooks (used for more intricate projects using lace or threads) which are not always beginner-friendly. 

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Key points to consider when selecting your first crochet hook:

Project type

What do you plan to make? Does that require a smaller or larger hook? Will you be crocheting for long periods of time? These are all questions you will need to ask yourself to get the best idea of what kind and size hook to choose.

Yarn weight

Match your hook size to the weight of your yarn; most beginner yarns are considered worsted weight. Check the yarn labels of the skeins you want to use to see what is the recommended hook size for that specific yarn type and weight.

Hook size

A size H-8 (5mm), I or J is a great starting point for most beginners. It's large enough to see the stitches clearly without being too big and it's often easier to hold than a tiny lace-type hook.

Hook Type

There are different types of hooks too, inline vs tapered.

Inline Hooks: The “head” of the hook is inline with the rest of the hook. Have a consistent sized hook leads to more consistent sized stitches.

Tapered Hooks: the neck tapers down to the shaft of the hook. These types are hooks are often easier for getting the hook to glide through stitches easier and faster.

Material

Experiment with different materials to find what feels best for you. Crochet hooks are made from many materials such as metal, wood, plastic, and glass. It may not seem like the material of the hook is important, but it plays a big part in how the yarn slides on the hook itself when you're actively crocheting as well as the comfort of the hook in your hand while using it.

Handle design

Look for ergonomic hooks with a comfortable grip, especially if you plan on crocheting for extended periods. You can also buy grips to add onto your preferred crochet hook for more comfort. I personally prefer hooks that have either a grip already attached or a wider base for more comfort in my hand when holding it.

RELATED: Basic Crochet Supplies Every New Crocheter Should Have

Crochet Hook Charts for Reference

Here are some charts found on Crochet World Magazine's website that I have found very helpful when I'm referencing sizes needed for a project. Keep charts like these bookmarked or somewhere handy to refer back to.

My Personal Opinion

When I first learned to crochet, I used metal hooks. For me, they were sturdy and comfortable to use, but once I got into projects where I would be crocheting for longer periods of time, I invested in hooks with more comfortable grips. Choosing the best beginner crochet hook for yourself is based on trial and error. Remember, the best beginner crochet hooks are the ones that work best for you so try out a few and see what you prefer!

RELATED: Increasing Crochet Project Complexity

If you are a beginner, I also recommend using a yarn type and color that makes the details easy to see. No frills, no super bulky, and no extremely thin yarns like threads. When you are learning, seeing the stitches is a must! You can always use those specialty yarns later when you hone your crochet skills.

I hope this information is helpful! Let me know how it goes!