12 Essential Crochet Tools + Notions
Are you brand new to crochet and don’t know where to start? Getting the right crochet tools and notions is a good place! Pick up the goodies mentioned on this list and you’ll be ready to stitch all day and night.
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Crochet tools are the hooks and other devices we use to move yarn around. Notions are the small accessories and gadgets that make the process easier and/or more fun. Many tools and notions can be used by crocheters, knitters, and other makers in the yarn community, while others are specific just to crocheters. Find your favorites when you visit our blog sponsor, WeCrochet.
WeCrochet offers hundreds of notions, tools, books, and yarn specifically for crocheters. Explore their full selection with these links:
12 Essential Crochet Tools & Notions
Watch the rundown of my favorite crochet accessories available from WeCrochet:
Enjoyed this video? Check these out: 25+ Crochet Hacks for Beginners and 25+ Crochet Hacks for Beginners, Pt. 2.
Score These Crochet Accessories
These are the tools I love from WeCrochet. Which are your favorites? Let me know in the comments!
1 // Crochet Hooks
Quality crochet hooks are a must, especially when learning to crochet. It’s tough to get crocheters to agree on their favorites, but Clover Amour crochet hooks always find their way to the top. Get a full set and you’ll have what you need for most yarn weights. You can also purchase these hooks individually here, or at your local craft store. Learn more in my Crochet Hooks 101 post HERE.
2 // Scissors
It’s a good idea to keep a sharp pair of scissors nearby when you crochet. Try these foldable scissors – they’re small, stainless steel and fold into a travel-ready shape, housing the blades inside the handles to keep your hands safe.
3 // Tapestry Needles
Tapestry needles are an absolute necessity when finishing your crochet projects. The main use for them is to help weave in ends. But they’re also useful for applying pom poms, tassels, beads, and buttons.
4 // Tape Measure
When it comes to tape measures, the more, the merrier. This one from WeCrochet comes in a bright color, so it’s easy to spot in your bag. The retractable tape measure is 60″ long with metric and imperial measurements.
5 // Rigid Ruler
While a tape measure is great for measuring your body, a rigid ruler is the best tool for measuring gauge. WeCrochet offers a cute acrylic ruler that measures only 4″ on one side and 10cm on the other side, which is ideal for getting the perfect gauge.
6 // Gauge Ruler
Pick up a gauge ruler if you want to get serious about gauge. This handy tool has an open area that can measure your stitch gauge and row gauge at the same time. As an added bonus, this gauge ruler let’s you check the size of your crochet hooks if needed.
7 // Stitch Markers
Locking stitch markers are a crocheter’s best friend. One moment they’re counting your chains when starting a big blanket, and the next minute they’re holding your live loop when you store that big blanket project. If it needs to be marked, these locking stitch markers will do the job.
8 // Notebook
Every crocheter is an artist and you need somewhere special to put your bright ideas. Try these notebooks. It should be obvious why (CATS!). But it’s also worth mentioning this pack of two notebooks comes with recycled cotton covers and 60 pages ready for you to fill.
9 // Project Bag
For the maker on the go, get a roomy project bag like this one. The canvas body, magnetic closure, and sturdy strap can house your most precious WIPS during any journey. Even better – these bags are made from 100% recycled cotton and sustainably sourced.
10 // Notions Pouch
Along with cats, llamas are the unofficial mascots of the fiber arts world. Show your love for these furry friends with this cute, oversized notions pouch. Store your tape measures, tapestry needles, and other accessories in this adorable pouch.
11 // Chart Reader
Chart readers don’t come up a lot in conversation, but any maker who’s used one knows how infinitely practical they are. Use this magnetic folder to hold charts and crochet patterns so you can keep your place and track your progress. It helps that this one is so cute – look at those little crochet hooks!
12 // Row Counter
Easily keep track of your rows with this handy digital row counter. Simply place the digital counter on your finger (includes adjustable strap), and press the large button to count your rows. Reset by pressing the small button. If you’ve put your project away, tap the large button to turn on the screen and keep on stitching!
Honorable Mention: Blocking Supplies
Try as I might, it’s an uphill battle to get the crochet community to agree that blocking is a good idea. Blocking is the process of introducing water to your finished project in the form of steam, a bath, spray, or some other method, to relax the stitches. Blocking also cleanses the project, making it softer in most cases. If you’re still iffy about blocking, take before and after photos of a shawl and let me know what you think.
Crochet Tools + Notions Q&A
What do you need for crochet?
The main items you need to learn crochet are yarn and crochet hooks. Beyond that, it’s helpful to also have tapestry needles, scissors, and a tape measure. There are a plethora of crochet tools and notions available on the market, catering to those looking for practical accessories that are also fun and beautiful. After you’ve acquired the basics, don’t be afraid to look for special tools and notions from independent makers and small businesses.
Why is crochet so popular?
Crochet has recently gained much attention through pop culture references and die-hard makers. JW Anderson’s famous patchwork cardigan, known to Tik Tok’ers as the Harry Styles cardigan, gained a massive following during the summer of 2020, sparking the creativity of beginner crocheters everywhere. With so many niches within crochet, there’s an obsession for everyone.
What type of tool is used in crochet?
The crochet hook is the main tool used to manipulate yarn in crochet. The hooked tool grabs the yarn to make an intricate series of knots. These knots combine into a fabric. The combination of yarn, tension, and style dictates what that fabric is used for and how it looks.
Is crocheting an expensive hobby?
In short, it can be. Like any longstanding hobby, luxury brands have found their way into the yarn arts. Crochet hooks can be handmade with adornments. Tape measures can be in the shape of different animals like sheep and cats. Electronics like tablets and digital notebooks aid crocheters with accessing and using their patterns. The truly necessary tools and materials of crochet are typically very inexpensive. But there is the opportunity to upgrade and personalize your crochet experience if your pocketbook allows.
