7 Essential Crochet Supplies You Need to Get Started

Published on 11 July 2023 7 min read

So, you've decided to dive into the world of crocheting. It's a fantastic creative outlet, perfect for making cozy blankets, cute toys, and stylish clothes. But what do you need to start crocheting? Don't fret, we're here to help. Here's a list of seven critical items you will need to get your crochet journey started.

1. Gather Your Crochet Hooks

First things first: crochet hooks. They're the magic wand in your crochet story. Think of them as your trusty sidekick, always ready to help you weave your yarn into something beautiful.

But not all crochet hooks are created equal. Here's what you need to keep in mind when picking your crochet hooks:

Size Matters: Crochet hooks come in various sizes, from tiny hooks for delicate lacework to hefty ones for chunky yarn. As a beginner, you might want to start with medium-sized hooks, such as a size H/8 (5mm). They're perfect for working with worsted weight yarn, which is great for beginners.
The Material of the Hook: Crochet hooks can be made from many materials - aluminum, bamboo, plastic, and more. While each has its charm, aluminum hooks are generally a good starting point. They're smooth, durable, and glide easily through yarn.
Comfort is Key: Look for hooks with ergonomic handles. Crocheting should be a joy, not a pain in the hand. Ergonomic hooks are designed to be comfortable to hold for long periods, so you can keep on crocheting without discomfort.

So, when you ask "what do you need to start crocheting?", remember that a good crochet hook is your first step. It's like a painter's brush, a writer's pen, or a chef's knife — the right tool can make all the difference.

2. Pick Out Yarn

Next on your list of "what do you need to start crocheting?" is, of course, yarn. Now, yarn shopping can feel a bit like being a kid in a candy store — so many colors, textures, and types to choose from! But here are a few tips to help you select the perfect yarn for your project:

Yarn Weight: The weight of the yarn refers to its thickness. Heavier weights (like bulky or super bulky) are great for warm winter projects, while lighter weights (like lace or fingering) are ideal for delicate, detailed work. If you're just starting out, medium weight yarn (like worsted) is a good place to begin.
Yarn Material: Yarn can be made from a variety of materials, including wool, cotton, acrylic, and more. Each has its pros and cons, but for beginners, acrylic yarn is often recommended. It's easy to work with, durable, and budget-friendly.
Color and Dye Lot: When you buy yarn for a project, make sure all the yarn is from the same dye lot. This ensures that the color will be consistent throughout your piece. And as for choosing a color? That's the fun part! Go wild and choose a hue that makes your heart sing.

So, to answer the question "what do you need to start crocheting?" — a good selection of yarn is absolutely essential. It's your canvas, your paint, your opportunity to create something truly unique. So go ahead, take a stroll down the yarn aisle and let your imagination run wild!

3. Secure a Yarn Needle

As we continue to unravel the mystery of "what do you need to start crocheting?", we come across another key component: the yarn needle. Some people may ask: "Isn't the crochet hook enough?" Let's clear this up—while the crochet hook does the primary work, a yarn needle has its specific roles to play in your crochet journey.

Also known as a darning needle or a tapestry needle, a yarn needle is a tool with a large eye and a blunt tip. Here's why you need to add this to your crochet toolbox:

Weaving in Ends: When you finish a crochet project, you'll often have loose ends of yarn that need to be neatly tucked away. This is where your yarn needle comes in. It allows you to weave these ends back into your work, giving your project a clean, finished look.
Joining Pieces: If you're making a larger project that involves multiple pieces—like a blanket or a sweater—you'll need to join these individual parts together. The yarn needle makes this process smoother and more secure.
Embroidery: Lastly, a yarn needle can be used to add embroidered details to your crochet work. This can be a fun way to personalize your projects even further.

So, while it may seem like a simple tool, a yarn needle is a mighty ally in your crochet adventure. Now you know another answer to the query, "what do you need to start crocheting?"

4. Obtain a Stitch Marker

So, we're halfway through our list, and it's time to answer the next piece of the puzzle: "What do you need to start crocheting?" Our fourth ingredient in this crochet concoction is something you might not have considered—a stitch marker.

Stitch markers may seem like an optional accessory, but they're actually quite useful, especially for beginners. Here's why:

Counting Stitches: Keeping track of stitches can be a challenge, especially when you're working on larger projects. Stitch markers help you keep count, ensuring your project stays on course.
Marking Rounds: When you're working in rounds or spirals—like when you're crocheting a hat or an amigurumi toy—stitch markers help you identify the beginning and end of each round. This way, you're less likely to lose your place.
Highlighting Changes: Stitch markers also come in handy when you need to increase or decrease stitches. By marking these spots, you can easily identify where to make changes without having to constantly refer back to your pattern.

And the best part? Stitch markers can be as fancy or as simple as you like. You can purchase specially made crochet stitch markers, or you can use a piece of yarn, a safety pin, or even a paper clip. It's all about what works best for you.

So, if you ever asked yourself "what do you need to start crocheting?", make sure to add stitch markers to your list!

5. Buy a Yarn Bowl

Ever tried crocheting and ended up playing a game of chase with your yarn ball? If the answer is yes, you're not alone. That's where our fifth item on the "what do you need to start crocheting" list comes in handy—a yarn bowl.

A yarn bowl is not just a regular bowl. It's a specially designed tool to keep your yarn in check and prevent it from rolling away. Here's how it works:

Keeps Yarn in Place: A yarn bowl holds your yarn ball or skein securely, preventing it from bouncing around, tangling, or picking up dirt.
Smooth Yarn Feed: Thanks to a spiral or hooked slot in the side of the bowl, your yarn feeds out smoothly as you work. This means no more tugging or yanking—just smooth, easy crocheting.
Protects Your Yarn: Using a yarn bowl can also help protect your yarn from pets who might see a rolling yarn ball as the perfect toy.

Yarn bowls come in a variety of materials like ceramic, wood, or plastic. You can always find one that suits your style and budget. So, add a yarn bowl to your shopping list—it might just become your favorite crocheting companion.

So, if someone asks you "what do you need to start crocheting?", you know to include a yarn bowl in your response. After all, who wants a runaway yarn ball, right?

6. Invest in a Measuring Tape

Next on our "what do you need to start crocheting" list is a tool that might seem out of place in a crocheting kit—a measuring tape. But trust me, it's far from that.

Whether you're crafting a cozy blanket, a stylish scarf, or a cute amigurumi, getting the right size is key. And that's where a measuring tape comes into play. Here's how:

Gauge Checking: In crochet, the gauge (or tension) refers to the number of stitches and rows in a specified measurement. This can vary based on the yarn, hook size, and even your mood. A measuring tape helps you check your gauge to ensure your finished item is the right size.
Measuring As You Go: A measuring tape lets you check the size of your work as you proceed. This can save you from the disappointment of finishing a project, only to find it doesn't fit.
Marking Distances: If you're working on a large project, like a blanket, you might need to mark certain distances. A measuring tape makes this a breeze.

Most crafters prefer a retractable measuring tape as it's compact and easy to carry around. Plus, the flexibility of a fabric tape is more suited to measuring crocheted pieces than a rigid metal one.

So, when thinking about "what do you need to start crocheting?", make sure a measuring tape is on that list. After all, size does matter—at least in the world of crochet!

7. Grab Some Scissors

Last, but certainly not least in our "what do you need to start crocheting" journey, is a pair of scissors. You might think any old pair will do, but let's cut to the chase—scissors can make or break your crocheting experience.

First of all, you need a pair of scissors to snip your yarn. That's a given. But here's the thing: not all scissors are designed for cutting yarn. Here's why:

Sharpness: Scissors that aren't sharp enough can frizz your yarn ends, making it hard to weave them in neatly. On the other hand, scissors that are too sharp can split your yarn, which is not ideal either. You need a pair that's just right.
Size: Large kitchen scissors can feel unwieldy when you're trying to trim yarn ends. On the other hand, tiny embroidery scissors might not be strong enough to cut through thick yarn. A medium-sized pair is usually the best bet.

Many crafters swear by dedicated yarn scissors, like those made by Fiskars or Gingher. These brands have scissors specifically designed for cutting fabric and yarn, and they can be a game-changer in your crochet journey.

So, when you're figuring out "what do you need to start crocheting", don't overlook the humble pair of scissors. They might seem simple, but they're a vital part of your crochet toolkit. After all, good tools are half the work, and scissors are no exception!

If you're interested in exploring another creative hobby after mastering crochet, check out the workshop 'Pottery Basics: Everything You Need To Know' by Meghan Yarnell. This workshop will provide you with all the essential information and skills you need to dive into the world of pottery and unleash your creativity.