Crochet is more than a hobby — it’s a calming craft that lets you turn yarn into something useful, beautiful, and long-lasting. But if you’re a beginner, the biggest confusion often is: “Which yarn and hook should I start with?”
Choosing the right crochet yarns and hooks can make learning easier, help your stitches look neat, and keep frustration at bay. In this guide, we’ll break down the essentials so you can confidently start your crochet journey.
đź§µ 1. Choosing the Right Yarn for Beginners
Not all yarns are equal, and the type you pick affects your project’s look and feel. For beginners, go with smooth, medium-weight yarns.
Best Yarn Types for Beginners:
Cotton Yarn: Soft, strong, doesn’t fray easily. Great for dishcloths, coasters, and amigurumi.
Acrylic Yarn: Affordable, widely available, easy to work with. Perfect for practice projects.
Wool Yarn: Warm, slightly stretchy, ideal for scarves and beanies.
✨ Pro Tip: Avoid fluffy yarns (like mohair) at first — they make it hard to see your stitches.
🪝 2. Understanding Crochet Hooks
The hook you choose determines stitch size and comfort. Beginners should start with ergonomic hooks that are easy to grip.
Common Crochet Hook Materials:
Aluminum Hooks: Lightweight, smooth, and affordable.
Plastic Hooks: Budget-friendly, but may not glide as smoothly.
Steel Hooks: Used for very fine threads and lace projects.
Ergonomic Hooks: Designed with soft grips — best for beginners to prevent hand pain.
👉 Start with a 5mm or 5.5mm hook — it pairs perfectly with medium-weight yarn (Category 4).
📏 3. Yarn Weight & Hook Size Chart
Matching yarn weight to hook size is important for neat stitches.
Yarn Weight | Hook Size | Best For |
---|---|---|
Light (3) | 4mm–4.5mm | Baby clothes, lightweight scarves |
Medium (4) | 5mm–5.5mm | Blankets, beanies, dishcloths |
Bulky (5) | 6mm–6.5mm | Chunky scarves, rugs, cardigans |
đź§© 4. Starter Crochet Kits
If you’re just getting started, a beginner crochet kit saves time and confusion. It usually includes:
A set of hooks
Yarn in different colors
Stitch markers
Yarn needles
A small guide or pattern
At Happynol, we curate kits with color-coded hooks, soft cotton yarns, and beginner-friendly patterns to help you learn faster.
🌟 Final Thoughts
Getting the basics right is key to enjoying crochet. Stick to smooth yarns, medium weights, and ergonomic hooks when starting out. Once you’re confident, you can explore textures, colors, and advanced tools.
Whether you want to make cozy blankets, cute toys, or handmade gifts, crochet is a journey worth starting today.
👉 Shop Happynol’s crochet yarns, hooks & DIY starter kits to begin your handmade journey today.