Choosing Your First Crochet Hooks

Starting a new craft can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to picking the right tools. In this tutorial, Charlotte Lee walks through the different crochet hooks she owns, sharing the pros and cons of each and offering guidance on where to begin.

This video is part of her Crochet Basics course at the School of SweetGeorgia, where she covers everything from gauge and yarn selection to fundamental stitches. This course also includes the After Midnight and Lace After Midnight shawl patterns.

Types of Crochet Hooks Covered

  • ChiaoGoo: Flat, wide bamboo handle with a metal tip
  • Wood Hooks: Round, with carved finger grooves
  • Metal Hooks: Round, single-ended and double-ended, with finger grooves
  • Plastic Hooks: Very lightweight, round shape
  • Hamanaka Hooks: Resin triangle handle, available in both single and double-ended options
After Midnight
The After Midnight shawl designed by Charlotte Lee.

Each Hook Has Unique Benefits

  • Plastic Hooks: Lightweight and budget-friendly. However, they can be grippy with some yarns, making stitches harder to pull through. Great for bulky or heavy projects.
  • Metal Hooks: Smooth and fast, perfect for most yarns. However, they can be too slippery for silk and mercerized cotton.
  • Wood & Bamboo Hooks: Provide more grip, making them a great choice if you’re working with slippery yarns but want to avoid plastic.
  • Resin Handles, Metal Hooks: Comfortable and easy to hold for long periods, thanks to their non-slip material. Great for most yarns.
  • Double-Ended Hooks: A versatile option that offers multiple sizes while owning fewer tools.
The variety of hooks is covered in this video.
The variety of hooks covered in the video.

Where to Start

The best crochet hook is easily accessible, one that feels comfortable to hold and fits your budget. You can find affordable options at dollar stores, craft stores, and yarn shops. Some hooks are beautifully designed, making them a joy to not only use but to look at. But the key is to start with something easy to find and work with.

As you gain experience, you’ll get a better sense of what features matter most for your projects. Over time, you’ll naturally discover the hooks that suit your style and technique best.

The Lace After Midnight shawl designed by Charlotte Lee.

More About Charlotte Lee 

Clover Amour Steel Crochet Hooks
Clover Amour Crochet Hooks

SweetGeorgia offers the Clover Amour Crochet Hooks individually, in a set or the Clover Amour Steel Crochet Hooks set, which comes in smaller sizes.

Need More Help?

Do you have questions about crochet hooks? If you’re an All-Access School of SweetGeorgia member, join us in our Community Forums! One of the great perks of being an All-Access member is the opportunity to ask Charlotte questions about their articles and courses and connect with fellow members.

Not yet a member of the School? We invite you to come and see what it is all about! Use the code: EXPLORETHESCHOOL to save 15% on an All-Access monthly membership!

You’re also welcome to join us on the SweetGeorgia Yarns Discord server. Our community has discussion threads on knitting, spinning, weaving, crocheting, dyeing, and much more. Feel free to start a conversation, get inspiration from fellow SweetGeorgia Yarns members and ask any questions you may have. 

Together, we share, learn, and grow as a community. We would be happy to have you join us!

Original publication: May 1st, 2023; Refreshed: April 17th, 2025  

Interested in testing out those crochet tools on new crochet patterns? Sign up for the SweetGeorgia newsletter and receive our free crochet pattern duo! You’ll also stay up to date on all of the latest tutorial, pattern, colour releases and more.

The post Choosing Your First Crochet Hooks appeared first on SweetGeorgia Yarns.



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