This posts lists the basic materials used in crocheting. You do not have to use the exact linked products, these are just what I love and recommend. For a quick shopping view, visit my crochet products idea list on my Amazon Storefront (note: I make a small commission when purchased through this link).
Hooks
The most important tool when it comes to crocheting is a crochet hook! My favorite hooks are the Clover Amour Hooks(set of 10 sizes, $45) with ergonomic handles. I use their larger hooks (set of 5 for thicker yarns, $41) in all of my crochet hat patterns (I most frequently use an 8mm hook(=). Amazon also sells budget friendly hook sets if you’re just starting out, like this 14 hook value kit (14 hooks, $14)
For Tunisian crochet projects, I have the Clover Takumi interchangeable hook set (9 hooks, $173). This set is very expensive so don’t splurge on it unless you are seriously interested in doing Tunisian crochet projects. You can find individual Tunisian crochet hooks on an as-needed basis.
Yarn
The next must have product in order to crochet is yarn. There are many types of yarns, varying in weight and type of fiber. I most commonly use acrylic, cotton or wool yarns, in worsted (weight 4), bulky (weight 5), and super bulky (weight 6) sizes. See this post for more yarn information and instructions on how to read a yarn label.
Stitch Markers and Counters
Stitch markers are essential if you’re working in the round or making amigurumi. They can also be helpful when the end stitch of your row is hard to see (I’ve made some blankets with ambiguous end stitches). I use Clover stitch markers. I use both the open ended markers ($9) and the ones that clasp shut ($14) depending on the project I am working on. You can also just use scrap yarn if you don’t have stitch markers on hand.
Stitch counters help keep track of rows when following a patterns. I have this Clover counter ($10) and I have a few of these Counter Clickers ($7; useful for projects with >100 rows, like blankets).
Tapestry Needles
To sew in ends and attach amigurumi pieces, you’ll need tapestry needles. I use Clover tapestry needles ($7). You can find a lot of value kits on amazon with different sizes.
Fabric Measuring Tape and Scissors
To make measurements, you’ll want to have fabric measuring tape and you’ll need (and you probably already have) scissors. I use the Clover fabric tape measure ($9) to take my measurements and use these fabric scissors ($13).
Stuffing
For amigurumi projects and to stuff the pieces in my dog hats, I use Poly-fil fiber stuffing ($6). I also use Poly-Pellets($16) in some projects to add weight.
Yarn Winder
A yarn winder it not an essential crochet accessory, but I do like to have one on hand for when I frog work (“frogging” is when you undo your work, it kind of sounds like a frog) and am left with a huge mess of yarn. Some people like to turn all their skeins into cakes using a yarn winder; this isn’t necessary at all. I have the KnitPicks yarn ball winder ($24).
Blocking Mats
To block my work (blankets, clothing wear), I use the KnitIQ blocking kit ($40). This is not a required item – you can also use children’s play mats to block your work or find DIY methods.
Nail File
I find a nail file to be essential in your crochet kit to avoid yarn snagging on your nail (which is enraging). I have this nail file ($10) and use this nail block ($13).
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