Knitting Needles and Crochet Hooks
Knitting Needles
So you want to be a knitter? Well, you have to start with some
knitting needles. That means begin with some basic straight needles in a couple different sizes. You don't need to go overboard, but you should really experiment with a few different types to get a feel for what you might like best. You might want to try one pair in wood, one in plastic, and another in metal, all in different sizes (0 to 15). Then you can try something simple, like a pot holder or scarf with each of the three needles. Once you get a feel for the needles and how you stitch, you'll have a better idea of what you'll want for future investments. Plus, knitting needles will last you, so down the road you might find that the needles you bought are just perfect for the new shawl you want to make.
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For those who just want to start with one pair of needles and don't want to get fancy until they KNOW that they enjoy knitting, I would recommend purchasing a pair of straight, metal needles from size 6 to 9. Choose yarn of a light color (not black) and make sure that it contrasts the knitting needles.
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Once you become more advanced, you might want to invest in other types of needles for performing different projects. When you cross that bridge, choosing needles has a lot to do with the type of yarn and pattern that you're going to use. You'll need to look at the "gauge" on
yarn.
Below you'll see several different types of needles, each with a particular purpose. If you become a skilled knitter, you may eventually invest in some of these items. Otherwise, leave them to the pros.
Crochet Hooks
Knitting is fun, but not for everyone. Crocheting on the other hand, may be just up your alley. But how does a beginner choose the right type of
plastic hooks which come in sets or by the unit. Standard hooks are plastic and aluminum, best used for yarn projects. Steel hooks, which are much smaller, are best suited for use with threads and fine yarn. Metal hooks and wooden hooks are by far the most sturdy and can potentially last a lifetime. Plastic hooks have the potential to bend and warp over time, which makes them less desirable. However, keep in mind that there is no limitation to the numbers of hooks you can purchase. In fact, having a few around on hand is helpful, preferably when they are of different sizes and types.
This brings us to choosing sizes, which is perhaps the more daunting question with which most beginning hookers are faced. The bottom line is that you want to have a hook that comfortably holds the yarn. As mentioned above, you should choose a steel hook only if working with thread or thin yarn due to it's small size (five inches long with a .75 mm to 3.5 mm diameter). Standard hooks are longer and thicker (2.5 mm to 19 mm). When shopping you'll see three basic sizing measurements from the US, UK, and Australia. For example, check out this
conversion chart. What makes it even more difficult to wrap your mind around is that manufacturers do not adhere to one specific sizing scale. Take a look at this
KarpStyles.com to learn about crochet hook brands and a little about each one.
Other Needle Types
Knitting Tools
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