Understanding a yarn label
The two basic things you need in crochet are obviously yarn and a hook to work your loops with. Once you have chosen your yarn, have a look at the yarn label.
Here it will specify which hook sizes are recommended for that specific yarn. Sometimes you see knitting needles instead of crochet hooks, but luckily the two match very closely.
Some labels may suggest a range of sizes instead of just one specific, which is because one type of thickness can be worked by several hook sizes.
This is also relevant in connection with your tension and measurement of gauge. You may crochet tighter or looser than the pattern designer, which can be levelled by going up or down a hook size.
When you are a new crocheter you may just want to focus on learning the craft. I recommend finding a basic crochet hook in the right size. Once you are more experienced you may want to explore different designs to find the ONE that is just right for you.
the crochet hook
POINT:
The point or hook tip is the pointed end of the crochet hook, and it is the part that you insert into the loops of your yarn to create stitches. The shape of the head can vary slightly between different hook styles (e.g., inline, tapered, or pointed), and it influences how smoothly the hook can glide through your yarn and loops.
THROAT:
The throat, also known as the neck, is the narrow part of the crochet hook that connects the head to the shaft. It helps maintain consistent tension as you pull yarn through loops. The width and shape of the throat can affect the ease of yarn movement and tension control.
SHAFT:
The shaft is the straight or slightly tapered part of the crochet hook between the throat and the handle. It is where the loops of yarn rest when you’re working on your crochet project. The shaft’s length can vary depending on the style of the hook and its intended use.
Thumb Rest:
Some crochet hooks feature a thumb rest, a small indentation or bump on the shaft near the handle. This rest provides a convenient place for your thumb to rest while crocheting and helps you maintain control over the hook.
Handle:
The handle is the broader, thicker part of the crochet hook. It provides a comfortable grip for your fingers as you hold and manipulate the hook. The size and shape of the handle can vary significantly, with some hooks having ergonomic or textured handles to reduce hand fatigue during long crochet sessions.
crochet hook sizes
The size of a crochet hook is either measured by numbers and letters (US) or in millimetres (metric).
The hooks are classified by the circumference of the shaft. This is also where the loop rests and will determine the size of your stitch.
A thicker shaft means a larger, looser crochet stitch, whereas a thinner shaft will yield smaller, tighter stitches.
I have listed the crochet hook sizes in both metric and US. I have not included all the metric sizes as this chart is for finding the equivalent hook size.
| Metric | US | Metric | US | Metric | US |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0,50mm | 18 | 3,25mm | D-3 | 8,00mm | L-11 |
| 0,75mm | 14 | 3,50mm | E-4 | 9,00mm | M/N-13 |
| 1,00mm | 12 | 3,75mm | F-5 | 10,00mm | N/P-15 |
| 1,25mm | 10 | 4,00mm | G-6 | 12,00mm | P-16 |
| 1,50mm | 8 | 4,50mm | 7 | 15,00mm | P/Q |
| 1,75mm | 6 | 5,00mm | H-8 | 16,00mm | Q |
| 2,00mm | 4 | 5,50mm | I-9 | 19,00mm | S |
| 2,25mm | B-1 | 6,00mm | J-10 | 25,00mm | - |
| 2,75mm | C-2 | 6,50mm | K-10,5 |
You can read more about the materials HERE.
Camilla
HOMEMADE & HEARTMADE
