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The Crochet Starter Guide Every Beginner Needs

Think of a crochet starter kit as a one-stop box of everything you need to kickstart learning to crochet.

Thinking about starting crochet, or ready to dive right into this enjoyable hobby? Welcome I warmly join you on this crochet journey, as I am still learning and practicing every day.
Here are crochet kits for beginners, perfect for learning how to make the creation of your dreams. What is a Crochet Kit?
A kit is a collection of items all packaged together designed for a specific purpose or project. They are convenient because instead of making a list of everything you need, it comes ready in a package for one price.
So a crochet kit has all the equipment needed for a specific crochet project and helps you learn to crochet.

There are a few types of crochet kits.
Some are single project kits, as in they have all the elements included for a crochet item and nothing else. Some of these types include yarn, and some do not.
Some are beginner crochet kits, as they have everything you need to start crocheting. They may or may not include yarn, and most have an instruction booklet with several different projects for you to try.
An amigurumi kit includes everything to make one or more amigurumi creations. They almost always have yarn. These are not the best choice for beginners, though, as they are pretty complicated crocheted things.
New tools from The Hook Nook. An assortment of Hook Nook tools and hooks on a blue background.

Why should you get Crochet Starter Kits for beginners?
Crochet starter kits are perfect for beginners because of the following reasons.

Convenience - Everything you need comes in one package, ready to go.
Time saving - No need to spend hours searching online for each product. Just find the one you want, and you're good to go!
Value - Bang for your investment as all products come under one price, and sometimes you won't be able to find things in kits anywhere else.
Affordability - Since everything is all together, you save money buying a bundle than everything separately. Plus, shipping is cheaper the fewer items you have in your cart.
Educational - Get out of your comfort zone, learn something new and gain more confidence in your crochet skills and crochet stitch repertoire.
Easy - Not too difficult, but just that right combination of familiar, enjoyable, and a little challenging.
Helpful - Detailed, easy-to-follow instructions are included to guide you from your first stitch to right to cast off.
Regardless of skill level, a beginner's kit is still useful for advanced crocheters if you want to relax with an easier project. Without having to worry about what you buy beforehand!

Crochet Starter Kits - Your Questions Answered
What is the best size crochet hook for beginners?
The best size crochet hook for beginners is size 5.0mm. It is large enough to hold comfortably but small enough not to be cumbersome. It creates stitches easily, and it's not too complicated to get your hook in either.

What does it take to get started crocheting?
Here's a checklist.

Yarn
A crochet hook or more than one - (if the pattern requires different/multiple hook sizes)
Tapestry Needle - (to weave in the ends)
Scissors - (to cut the yarn if needed)
A pattern or project idea - (after all, you need a plan to create!)
Creativity!
What are the best crochet hooks?
The best crochet hooks for when you are just starting out are aluminum crochet hooks, size 5.0mm. It's flexible for a wide range of projects, easy to grip and use, and the stitches you create with it are just the right size to practice with.
Not only that, but they are also very affordable. Perfect for beginners!

Which is better to knit or crochet?
It depends on your preference. Both are equally excellent, fun and satisfying crafts. But for a true beginner, in terms of which is easier, crochet is better. Much simpler and quicker to learn than knitting.

I've written a post about the differences, benefits, and similarities between knitting and crochet. Read crochet vs knitting here.
Things to consider in the best crochet starter kit.
Does it include one or more crochet hooks?
These, along with yarn, are the most necessary materials for crocheting! Make sure they are included in the kit. Sometimes another size will be needed for different parts of the creation, so check to make sure they are in the kit.

Do you have yarn?
Not all crochet kits have balls of yarn. Often you will have to buy it separately. This is good if you want to choose for yourself, but not so good in terms of convenience.

If it does have it, it will generally be more expensive than those that don't. Decide what works best for you.

What about a tapestry needle?
A tapestry needle is a small needle with a large eye (the hole you put the thread through). It's for sewing crocheted pieces together and weaving the ends in. (It is also called a yarn needle or a darning needle).

A beneficial tool that is often forgotten about until the moment you need it - make sure your beginner crochet kit has one of these!

(Don't forget to make sure the yarn will fit the needle. You don't want to have a thick weight yarn only to have the needle be too small).

Don't forget the stitch markers!
Nifty little tools to help you keep track of pattern and stitch changes. A stitch counter generally looks similar to safety pins. Yes, you can use a scrap piece of yarn if they are not included.

But it's nice to have a set of stitch markers that stand out against whatever yarn you are working on.

Is that a tape measure in the contents?
This is important! Before you begin any project, you should start with the basics. Make a sample to test your gauge and see if it is correct according to the instructions. A tape measure helps you make sure it is the right size.

What kind of accessories are included?
Pay close attention to the list of contents, so you have an idea of what is in the kit. The basics include all the items mentioned above, such as the instruction booklet with projects and patterns for beginners.

Other things are not essential, but good to have.

Are the instructions included and are they clear to understand?
An instruction manual or instruction book, if there are several projects, is essential. Read customer reviews and look at previews of items to see if the instructions are clear and easy to understand.

Sometimes, beginner crochet kits' content might only be for one creation, but they will include bonus projects.

Is there an individual guarantee on each of the items?
Sometimes things in a kit will be in excellent working order, but one item doesn't work, unfortunately. Read the warranty policy to see if you can replace that item or if you have to replace the whole thing.

What about the return policy?
In the unlikely event of a product mishap, you don't want a complicated and unfair policy that prevents you from enjoying the crochet kit!

Is the price worth the value of the kit?
If you are on a budget, one money saving tip is to evaluate all the products included in a kit, and add up the price of all of them separately, and compare. It will tell you which is cheaper, but in general, a kit is more reasonable.

I don't want to blow your budget in your quest to learn to crochet.

The Best Crochet Starter Kit
Here are some suggestions for getting started in this fabulous craft.

Crochet kit with bow ear warmer
Darn Nice Yarn Ear Warmer Crochet Kit
Get the best of both worlds with this traditional yet contemporary Bow Earwarmer Crochet Kit. Each kit comes with 1 skein of speckled Tweed and a digital pattern download.

Downloadable Digital Pattern
Ideal for beginners, as it only requires simple stitches.
Disadvantage

If you prefer a paper pattern, you would have to print it yourself Crochet Learn to crochet Kit dishcloth Bloom
We Crochet Learn to Crochet Kit dishcloth bloom
Kitchen towels are a lovely functional and practical project to learn to crochet. Once you've made one, you'll be eager to make more.

Kit includes:

Learn To Crochet Club: the dishcloth, beginner's instruction booklet.
3 balls of Dishie yarn (1 each in Azure, Begonia and Sunshine Multi)
U.S. size J-10 (6 mm) Caspian crochet hook needle
a yarn needle
Pro

Includes everything needed to complete a crocheted dishcloth.
Fun and bright colors
Disadvantage

Only comes in the colors listed Beginner Crochet Kit - Towelette
Beginner Crochet Kit - Towelette
Kitchen towels make great gifts, and once you learn the basics, you can try all kinds of different patterns.

This starter kit includes the pattern in a DIGITAL VERSION ONLY that you can print out or use online, the hook and cotton yarn you'll need to make your project, and all the videos you'll need to watch and learn.

(All videos and pattern will be sent in an email digitally after purchase) The hook and yarn will be mailed.

Pro

Simple stitch to learn and master
Cons

Very limited choice of yarn color Learn To Crochet Kit for both children and adults
Autumn Acorn Learn To Crochet Kit for Kids and Adults
A lovely gift for yourself to start your crochet journey or for someone else who would love to have a go at crochet.

Included in the kit - approx. 1 mini-skein (20 grams/80 yards) or 2 mini-skeins (10 grams/40 yards each) colors will vary -
One wooden crochet hook
A wooden acorn
A fun progress keeper
A yarn needle
How-to instructions
Easy to carry drawstring bag!
Pro

Great for kids or adults
Cons

You can't choose your colors, but you can choose girl or boy and boy or adult at checkout.

Get Hooked Learn to Crochet Kit
Nomad Yarns Get Hooked Learn to Crochet Kit
Nomad Yarn instructions take you from the beginning of the crochet chain through more intricate stitches to create an attractive sample to show off your new skills.

Yarn Swift

Yarn Swift Guide For All Your Crocheting Needs

Yarn Swifts are wonderful inventions for keeping those pesky skeins of yarn from tangling.

Relax and wind your yarn into usable cakes or balls while your swift keeps the unwound yarn under control.What is a Swift Yarn?

A swift thread is a neat tool to hold your thread and keep it from tangling while you wind it onto a clean, usable ball or cake with a ball winder. Think of it as a chair back, but much, much better!

An effective tool used in combination with a yarn ball winder, which makes clean yarn cakes, both machines complement each other and make it so much easier. Read my review of The Best Yarn Winders.

Of course, getting that wound at the yarn store is big, and while doing it for yourself, many people don't realize that they make a common mistake. If you're going to use the yarn immediately for a project, excellent choice.

But if you have it wound and in your craft room closet for a rainy day, watch out! If you leave them for too long, the yarn fibers will stretch and lose elasticity. It won't look very good when you've crocheted either.

With a fast yarn, you have control of when you prepare your yarn fibers for crocheting. An excellent advantage is that you can wind balls by hand or with a yarn winder whenever you want, and it's ready to wind when you need it.

You can also take a break, and nothing will have changed when you resume.

How to set up a Swift thread

Make sure you have assembled it according to the instructions before setting it up for use.

If you have a Swift Yarn with a stand, it's very flexible as to where you place it - you might even decide to set it up in your backyard if you want!

If you have one that sits flat, there's not as much freedom. You need to find a surface with a large enough empty area to fit it.

Once you have found your ideal area, clamp it down and tighten the screw securely. If you are concerned about a fastener that feels flat damaging the area, place a cloth underneath.

Now you are ready to start winding the thread.Things to consider when choosing which one to buy.

It doesn't matter if you are just looking for a simple, inexpensive machine that will do the job right or a wonderful quality speed that will last for years. This tool is so much fun!

Here are details to consider as you make the buying decision of which swift thread is right for you.

How does a Swift thread work? - How to use a Swift yarn for winding yarn

Prepare the skein for winding. Blanket it until it is a ring, remove the tag, and any bits of yarn binding and keep it from tangling. Do not untie the skein, though! Wait until the skein form is placed on the speedy.

If you are using a fast umbrella, place the yarn circle around the fast yarn and open it out of the stretch sections. Push the center up until it fits snugly around the thread.

Make sure it is not loose; otherwise the thread may fall out! Secure the thread quick with the screw, so that it stays in place.

If you are using a quick that sits flat, place the circumference of the thread around the pins and adjust the width as needed. Secure them, and you're ready to go.

Remove the loops of thread from the yarn.

If you are using a yarn ball winder, hold the end of the yarn in your hand from the outside, not the inside. This ensures that you do not interrupt the flow of the speedo.

Connect it to the ball winder and place it on the bobbin. Make sure everything is secure, the thread in place under tension and start putting the handle on the bobbin winder.

If you are using your fingers to wind a ball, start winding, but turn slowly, so it doesn't tangle.

Keep going until you've created your breathless yarn!

Choosing a Swift Yarn

There are several different types of Yarn Swifts. Here's a list of the comparisons, similarities and differences between these main types.

Umbrella Swift

Umbrella swifts spin horizontally, have clamps, and are suitable for up to large skeins. It stores easily, because it collapses and folds.

Amish or horizontal board

This type of fast yarn sits flat on a table and spins horizontally. An Amish-style rapid can spin most medium to medium-sized skeins. To store it, you'll need to disassemble it if you want it to take up less space.

It is easy to use.

Swift / Table Combination Umbrella

This yarn winds quickly horizontally and sits flat on a table. Swift has medium sized skeins of yarn. Pack it into shape, or take it apart.

Metal Wheel and Wood Combination

Spins vertically, but sits flat on a table. Only good for smaller skeins and skeins. You have to disassemble it if you want to keep it in a tighter space.How much room do you have?

Swifts can be quite cumbersome, and take up a lot of space: umbrella yarn swifts, especially when fully expanded.

Horizontal swifts move in a circle.Check that there is enough area around them, so they don't hit obstacles while in motion.Check that walls or furniture don't get in the way!

Larger umbrella swifts expand up to 8.5 feet wide. To avoid hitting objects or getting stuck while spinning, aim for about 1.5 feet of space around you to move freely.

If you have limited space, don't stress. There are other options, not just a huge swift umbrella!

If you have one of these, you can lay it on its side to create vertical speed. The top of a chair could work perfectly for this!

On nice days, take your swift string and place it outside. Surely there is a place in your yard/backyard/front yard you can easily put it!

Important! Remember these additional tips when choosing your Swift Twine

If you want a product that will stick, check the depth of the clamp and have a surface that will fit the clamp. No one wants to receive their new machine only to have it not fit on their tables!

Consider storage. Umbrella swifts are the easiest to store, other models, not so much.

How big are the skeins of yarn you need to wind?

The size of the swift you need depends on the size of the skein you need to wind. Skeins of yarn come in different sizes, as almost all manufacturers, dyers and suppliers choose their own.

How are you supposed to know which one to choose? Take a look at your yarn stash and compare the size, do a count to make it easier.

You should be able to see what kind of skeins or skeins you buy and use. This will help you decide on the best fast yarn for you.

If you use different sizes and weights of yarn, some large and some small, get a larger model.

If you only use smaller weights or sizes, a cheaper model with smaller gauge options should do!

Even with all this in mind, choose the fast thread that will give you the best value for your hard-earned money.

IMPORTANT! - If you also use wool winders (yarn ball winders), keep in mind how much the wool winder will hold.

It can hold anywhere from 4 oz to 16 oz, (a full pound.) If your skein of yarn is large and you have a small yarn winder, you will need to cut the skein in half and wind it onto another cake.

Additional things to remember

Make sure it is easy to set up, read customer reviews to get an idea of their experience and how well the fast works. Learn from others' mistakes or experiences as well as your own!

You don't want to spend hours trying to set it up when there is yarn to wind and crochet to do.

Another thing is that it's best if the quick is smooth and sanded, so it doesn't catch or snag the yarn.

I hope you find this resource useful! Yarn swifts are wonderful inventions, perfect for doing a laborious task and make it so much easier. Leaving much more time for the good stuff, crochet! Which style is right for you?

There are two styles, which are the most popular and common. These yarn swifts are the quick umbrella and Amish, (also known as table because it sits flat on a table.).

Perfect for home use, and are a functional piece of craft room furniture. The other styles combine the two, and a combination version with a metal wheel and wood base.

Here the basic differences, advantages and disadvantages for each.

The name is pretty self-explanatory. When it collapses, it is small, push up, so it expands outward and pull downward to close. These swifts have clamps, with screws to grip a surface.

Sometimes, they have the option to add on legs so you can place them on the ground. They collapse easily and are very easy to pack.

Word Search

It's called a table top speedo because that's exactly what it is, a speedo that sits on top of a surface. A range of sizes to fit any situation or crocheter.

Instead of expandable arms, it has adjustable pegs inserted into the different peg holes in the arms to fit the yarn. It can be packed in its configuration form or can be disassembled.

This type of fast yarn is made of wood and consists of two long, thin pieces of wood that crisscross in the middle, creating four arms.

A skein winder and its ability to adjust to accommodate different yarns, yarn types and string types is very useful.

In each of these arms is a series of holes into which pegs are inserted. The pegs can be moved to accommodate different skein sizes.

And then it all spins around, allowing you to create balls of yarn if you are hand winding or yarn muffins or yarn cakes, with the help of a yarn ball winder.

Crochet hooks that are useful with woodworking could make a quick Amish themselves.

Yarn

A Yarn Guide For The Perfect Baby Blanket

What is the best yarn for a baby blanket? Babies can be an excellent excuse to try your hand at crocheting a blanket. Seeing them all warm and cozy in their handmade blanket will bring so much joy!

After much research, I can confirm that many crocheters and knitters agree cotton or acrylic blends are the best yarn for a baby blanket. This is because these are the softest yarns and have excellent machine washability.

Even better, they are available in many different colors and are perfect affordable/cheaper yarns. Acrylic can be softened by using a fabric softener when you wash it.

These are perfect for baby blankets, but other blends and yarn types, such as cotton/acrylic blends, organic cotton and silk/bamboo blends, are excellent. The last option is more expensive but luxuriously soft. The best baby blanket yarn buying checklist.

There are quite a few qualities that the best baby blanket yarn should contain, and it has to meet a high standard for good reason.

A baby blanket should be lightweight (but still warm if it's cold), cuddly, soft and functional. The best yarn will be machine washable, soft and durable.

Here's a list of questions to ask when considering a particular product.

Yarn store good yarn

Is the yarn machine washable?

As lovely as many hand wash only yarns are, they need to be washed often! When it comes to babies, things like vomiting, drooling and diaper disasters are all too common.

Save parents and yourself time and energy, avoid hand washing and use a yarn that can be machine washable.

Using a washing machine is much easier!

The best yarn for a baby blanket should be machine washable.

To determine whether or not you can do this, check the label to see if it is hand washable or machine washable.

Ideally, you want something that can survive a normal machine wash, with a temperature of about 40° Celsius, or 104° Fahrenheit.

Sometimes a yarn is machine washable and dryable! A perfect combination of convenience.

What do parents prefer (colors/material)?

While you may have ideas about what the baby or yourself would like regarding materials and color, you are not making knitting blankets for yourself or the newborn.

The baby has no choice in the matter, as they can't express their opinion yet!

Keep their preferences in mind when discussing the colors you are choosing for the nursery. If you are unsure, asking them directly is a good idea.

That way, there is no confusion or disappointment for either party!

What is your budget?

As with any project you tackle, you can choose lovely, upscale products or a still nice but cheaper option.

Be sure to set a budget and don't go for it! Since babies grow quite fast, it could only be used for a year at most. Make sure you are not paying for anything you think is too expensive.

Yarn materials also play a role in the cost. Acrylic, polyester, other synthetic fibers and cotton are cheaper. Alpaca yarn, silk and bamboo are luxury and more expensive yarns.

Are parents or baby allergic to wool?

If one or both parents are allergic or sensitive to wool, there is a very good chance that the child is as well. You do not want the baby's skin to develop a rash or become irritated.

If this is the case, it is best to avoid wool and choose something hypoallergenic or a synthetic fiber such as acrylic to ensure that the baby's skin is not irritated.

If you are unsure, you can always ask.

Quality crochet yarns

BUY NOW AT US CROCHET FOR BEAUTIFUL YARNS >>

Remember, inevitably, the blanket is going to end up in baby's mouth!

An important thing to remember is how durable and how long the yarn will last. The blanket will be exposed to all sorts of nasty things, but just like the nature of babies!

Very young children explore things through their mouths, so your blanket will end up in their mouths eventually.

Check the reviews of a particular yarn to see if they have anything to say about how well the yarn held up.

When will the baby be born?

When is the child due and what season? Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter?

If it will be in the winter or colder months, choose a softer, warmer material.

If it's going to be during the summer or warmer months, choose a lightweight fiber designed for a summer blanket, such as acrylic and cotton.

Growing, Baby, Blanket

Need multiple balls of yarn?

It helps to know the ball size or yardage. If you need more than one ball of yarn (which you probably will), be sure to buy them all from the same dye lot if you are planning a single color.

(Dye lots are one batch of yarn dyed at a time).

This is important when making any knitting project, not just baby blankets. Even if the colors are supposed to be the same and come from a different dye lot, they will look different. you don't want that!

What kind of feel should the yarn have?

Check the parent's preferences when making your decision on softness. Fortunately there are plenty of options for soft yarn for the baby blanket.

Winter, you want a soft, bulky, thick chenille yarn. Summer, you want a thin, lightweight but still soft yarn.

Is the blanket going to pose a danger to the newborn?

Babies are not very self-conscious and don't have a very good sense of danger. You need to make sure that the details of the blanket will not pose a danger or difficulty for the newborn.

Here is a quick checklist of things to remember to keep your child safe.

Make sure your tension is tight and your stitches are close together. Loose stitches could cause a choking hazard.

Do not choose knitting patterns with holes. You don't want the child to be able to put their fingers through the yarn.

Weave in all ends before presenting the gift, and double check that the woven ends cannot be picked out.

Avoid a bulky blanket in summer and a lightweight blanket in winter. The baby could overheat or become too cold.

What gauge does your pattern or project require?

Gauge: These are stitches per inch, also known as yarn tension. To find the gauge of a yarn, you can count the number of stitches over 6 inches and divide by 6.

Having the correct gauge ensures that your knitting will look exactly like the finished product you are trying to achieve.

We crochet tools and accessories

Everything you need to get crocheting!

Your Baby Blanket Yarn Questions Answered

Is acrylic yarn safe for babies?

Yes! Just be sure to choose acrylic or an acrylic blend that is soft and has a nice texture.

Is wool a good material for a baby blanket?

Yes, as long as the parents or baby are not allergic or sensitive to wool. Merino wool is hypoallergenic, super soft and warm. Or choose wool blends with merino wool.

How long does it take to crochet a baby blanket?

It depends on the size of the blanket, what kind of yarn weight it is, and how fast you crochet!

How many balls of Bernat yarn do you need for a baby blanket?

Smaller baby blankets only need 1-2 skeins. Larger ones may need 3-4.

How do you wash a Bernat baby blanket?

You can hand wash Bernat yarn blanket or machine wash on the delicate program, with the cold temperature.

Does Walmart carry Bernat yarn?

Yes, Walmart sells Bernat Yarn, although it is best to check to see if it is in stock at your local store.

How do I decide between warm and cold weather yarns?

In general, thicker bulky yarns are best for winter and lighter weight yarns like cotton for warm weather.

How to wash crochet blankets?

If they can be machine washed, place them on delicate or wool settings, cold wash only. If they have to be hand-washed, be sure to wash them with mild soap in cold water.

How much yarn do I need for a baby blanket? If you are knitting with chunky yarn such as a chenille style yarn, two balls are a good idea. If you are knitting baby blankets with something smaller, like a medium sized yarn, 9 balls is a good place to start.

How big should a baby blanket be?

If you are following a pattern, most will show how much yarn (yardage) is needed to finish the project. Find the yarn you have chosen and see how many yards are contained within one ball. Next, on the pattern, find how many yards you need and divide by the total amount inside a skein.

There they are, lots of wonderful, soft and comfortably perfect yarns to knit into a baby blanket.

I hope you enjoy making baby blankets, and the parents and newborn will surely appreciate the beautiful creation you've put so much effort into.

Sometimes sock yarns would fit a baby blanket.

Yarn

The Yarn Buying Guide You Need

How can I buy yarn?
Here is a list of simple steps.

Choose an online yarn store! There is a list below to help you decide.
Choose the perfect yarn.
Add it to your cart, look for anything else you need.
Pay for your order at checkout.
Arrange shipping
Celebrate!
Anxiously await arrival near your door.
If you get stuck, don't panic! Just like asking an assistant for help, every yarn company has a dedicated team to help you.

multicolored hand-dyed yarns
This may not be the yarn you're looking for - Get the right one!
Important! Remember these questions as you drool, or should I say, browse yarns.

What type of weight?
What type of fiber?
How much do you need?
What colors?
What kind of yarn?
Can you put it in the washing machine?
Reasonable prices?
What does it come in (hank, skein, ball, cake?)?
What are you making? (Scarves, mittens, hats, a sweater or socks?)
Don't forget yarn tags and symbols!
Yarn labels have a wealth of information on them. Be sure to read them! Take note of these:

Yarn weight - From 0-7, superfine, to super bulky!
Gauge - Remember this is a rough estimate, don't forget a sample first!
Hook Size - The best hook size to use, a match made in heaven.
Amount of yarn - How much yarn you get in a ball
Care Instructions - You want it to last, right?
Make a checklist and check back often when considering a yarn.

Things to remember when buying yarn online
Keep that handy checklist
Be sure to keep track of what you need in your yarn! Refer to your pattern/project guidelines. That way, you won't make a mistake in the details of your yarn needs.

Read all the details!
You probably don't need to spell this out, but read all the details. The yarn labels have lots of helpful instructions on them, so pay attention.

Don't slip on just to miss the fact that it wasn't machine washable, and oops, now it's felt! That would be a disaster.

Keep an eye on customer reviews
Buying anything online means putting your trust in strangers. You can't trust their experience or judgment because it's just a picture on the screen.

Scroll down and read those reviews on the product page - are they positive, negative, any notes or problems they encountered?

Valuable information for you to learn before you click the Buy Now button.

Better to learn from others' mistakes than your own, right?

New tools from The Hook Nook. An assortment of Hook Nook tools and hooks on a blue background.

Beware of bargains and sales
Everyone loves a bargain. For those who like a bargain or savings, there are many ways to go.

Like stores, yarn websites run periodic sales and savings often.
Sign up for the newsletter to keep track of sales. (Sometimes they offer 10% -15% off your first purchase).
Their email lists often have exclusive offers, crochet techniques, tips, tricks and clever ideas.
Follow the company on social media. They sometimes advertise discounts on their channels.
Seasonal sales occur around the big shopping times of the year. Take advantage.
Clearance sales! Yes, online stores too! Winter fibers are in clearance in the warmer months. (Wool, alpaca, mohair, merino.) Summer/spring fibers are in clearance in the cooler months.
Buy a kit. Yarn is cheaper. Plus, you get everything included for one project.
Buy a box or package with a mix of yarns.
Lots of soft, tall yarns.
Refunds, returns and exchanges.
As unfortunate as it may be, sometimes the item you bought just isn't up to par. Maybe there's a defect. It's the wrong color or not the quantity you paid for.

If so, make sure you know the return policy before you buy anything.

What is the best yarn to buy?
It depends on what you need. Consider the following questions. What colors, what weight, what fiber and how much you need. Use your project or pattern as a guide to help you.

If you are making it for someone else, take their considerations into account as well. Customer reviews should help you decide whether to buy it or not.

Where can I buy cheap yarn?
WeCrochet has great deals and savings regularly. Amazon is a great place to buy yarn in bulk at a discounted price, a little cheaper than other stores.

What is the most expensive yarn?
Vicuna is a relative of alpaca and llama from South America and costs about $300 for an ounce! Some very expensive crochet.

Other fancy yarn includes qiviut, Arctic Muskox, extra fine merino, baby alpaca, and the huge fancy yarns.

If you have the budget, it might be something you want to splurge on one day. If you just...

Cashmere and alpaca yarn may come to mind, but there is yarn more expensive than that!

Best places to buy yarn online.
Here it is. A collection of the best online yarn stores on the internet. Go ahead and satisfy your crochet needs.

Some are dedicated to the best yarns. Some branch out into crochet hooks, notions, bags, and everything else a crocheter could need! If you are just buying yarn, beware, you may be tempted to add other items to your cart.

My top recommendations are below.

WeCrochet
Finally, an online yarn store dedicated exclusively to crochet and crochet! (1) Hooray! Run by the company that runs Knit Picks, Crafts Americana Inc.

You can expect the same amazing product quality, customer service and affordability.

They have many different ranges, of all kinds of specifications, such as yarn weight. They have extra-fine weight yarn, all the way up to jumbo yarn.

If you've shopped at Knit Picks, there are favorites from their yarn brands designed explicitly for crochet, like Dishie Yarn and Chroma Worsted Yarn.

WeCrochet
Key Features.

Dedicated to crocheters
A beautiful place to find everything you need
A vibrant community
Pro

Decent shipping rates
Affordable prices
Fast shipping
Cons

They only ship to the US, Canada, Australia and the UK currently.
Yarnspirations
It's all in a name. This store is all about the lovely yarn and inspiring many crafters, crocheters and makers.

Over the years, they have purchased many brands including Lily's Sugar&Cream, Patons, Bernat, Caron, and recently Red Heart. They have a wide selection to match their wealth of brands, great for any type of project and yarn.

They also sell patterns, notions, books, bags and many more crochet related.

Yarnspirations
Key Features.

Loved by many crocheters, the company has years of knowledge.
A wide range of yarn weights, from extra-fine weight yarn to worsted.
Many popular yarn brands in one convenient location.
Pro

Trackable, fast and reliable shipping
Take good care of their customers, fast and friendly customer service.
Email support if you have any problems
Lots of great price ranges
Safe and secure

Crafts of Love
This website doesn't look like a yarn store, but more like a look book or place to find inspiration, patterns, books and helpful techniques and tricks.

Don't let that appearance fool you though. They sell yarn! Exclusive brands on that site, as well as familiar favorites. Their range caters to all tastes.

They sell excellent quality yarn perfect for making a blanket.

(Note: Love Crafts was formerly known as Love Knitting).

Open System.
Key Features.

Complete your yarn of choice with a variety of different patterns, books and inspiration for your crochet project.
Easy to use search filter, choose by fiber, color, weight, etc.
Pro

Affordable price range for all budgets
Good return policy
Easy to use and order
International shipping
A friendly and vibrant community of artisans.
Disadvantage

Shipping is quite expensive
Fabulous yarn
Just another ordinary online yarn store, right? Not at all.Fabulous Yarn is very deserving of the name.

A small independent yarn company is run by passionate owners who enjoy and practice all kinds of fiber crafts.

They have a small yarn store in Tivoli, New York. An upscale yarn store specializing in handcrafted, beautiful balls in all types of fibers and colors.

They have new daily specials, so keep an eye out for their wonderful products!

It is an extraordinary place. I've never seen another crochet website anything like it. Well worth browsing.

There is excellent sheep and alpaca wool yarn. Lots of beautiful wool dreaming of being added to your yarn stash! Lovely ideas for your next project.

Fabulous yarn
Key Features.

Lots of wonderful skeins and hand-dyed fancy skeins
Have yarn made from wool and vegetable fibers
Focusing on yarn made by independent and small businesses and designers, so you know you're supporting talented people, not just giant manufacturers
They source their yarn ethically
Perfect for gifts for crocheters
Pro

Beautiful yarns and many colors available
Fast shipping for orders, and available internationally
Good return policy
Disadvantage

A bit of a smaller range than most companies

Crochet

Complete Guide To The Tunisian Crochet

What if I told you there is only one yarn art that combines crochet and knitting? Enter Tunisian crochet!

Guess what? With this crochet technique, you can make textiles that mimic knitting and fabrics that resemble crochet. You can also create completely different stitches with this technique.

Despite the name, there is no evidence that it originally came from Tunisia. People don't know much about this technique; that's like knitting. So where did it come from and what do we know about it?

Read on for more information in my guide to Tunisian crochet. What is Tunisian crochet?
Tunisian crochet (pronounced tyoo-ni-ni-zee-uhn crochet in the UK and Australia, and also-nee-zhn crochet in the US) is a type of needlework fusing knitting and crochet.

Knitters and crocheters alike will find something that reminds them of their craft in Tunisian crochet.

Learning this technique is great if you like the look of knitting but don't like using two knitting needles. Or, maybe you don't like some crochet, but you still like the look of it.

Since Tunisian crochet didn't come to Tunisia, where did it originally come from? No one knows, unfortunately.

The popularity of Tunisian crochet did not return until the 1960s, when it was introduced back into print.

People first saw Tunisian crochet appear in print in 1884 in a book called 'The Dictionary of Needlework.' During those years, Tunisian Crochet was becoming increasingly popular. However, soon after, it declined.

Tunisian Hook Kit (3.5mm)
Store at WeCrochet
What is the difference between Crochet and Tunisian crochet?
Here's a quick comparison between traditional crochet and Tunisian crochet.

#1 - Knitting
Tunisian crochet is quite stretchy. It also tends to curl more than regular crochet.

Regular crochet is exceptionally stretchy.

#2 - Tool
Tunisian crochet: In this crochet technique, you use a longer hook. The longest hooks are up to 14 inches long.

Traditional crochet: Regular crochet hooks are shorter than Tunisian hooks and tend to be about 6 inches long.

#3 - Method
Tunisian crochet: you work the stitches in two passes, the forward pass and the return pass.

Traditional crochet: flip the work at the end of the row.

Furls Odyssey Multi Hook Gift Sets

Add a random selection of 3, 5 or 8 Furls hooks to your cart, all at a discount when you purchase these hooks individually.
What is the difference between Tunisian and Afghan crochet?
Although they sound like two completely different crochet techniques, they are one and the same. Tunisian crochet is known as afghan crochet as well.

People used to call Tunisian crochet "Afghan crochet" or "Afghan stitch" before the 1970s, but now people interchange the two.

Afghan crochet is often confused with a different crochet method. But, it is a group of crochet stitches within the Tunisian technique.

Tunisian Crochet Feat Img
How to Tunisian crochet
First things first, let's start with the basics. Here is a list of things you will need.

Tunisian crochet hook. (The pattern you are using will tell you which one you need).
Yarn
Scissors
Tape measure or ruler
Darning needle for weaving in ends
Optional: Stitch counters or stitch markers.
As for what size hook you need, check the yarn label to see what it recommends.

Here are how to make some of the most common Tunisian stitches with some free crochet tutorials. A perfect introduction to expanding your stitch repertoire.

Stitch #2. The complete Tunisian crochet stitch.

Fluffy, chunky, warm ... what more could you ask for in a fabric? The warm characteristic of this stitch makes it an excellent choice for winter garments, such as scarves.

Another great thing is that the finished fabric has two different textures on each side; it is reversible.

Stitch #3. The Tunisian stitch of Tunisian crochet stitch.

Now, here's where you can be fooled! The Tunisian crochet stitch looks just like the knit stitch. As soon as you flip the seemingly "knitted" fabric over, you may see a difference if you compare it to an actual knitted piece.

Stitch #4. The Tunisian stitch Purl crochet Tunisian stitch.

Hmmm... Is this Tunisian crochet or knitting? Look closely and compare a knit and tunisian stitch, and you'll see a slight difference between the two.

This stitch is great if you don't like to knit, but want to make a purl stitch.

More types of tunisian crochet stitches:

Reverse stitch
Ocean Stitch
Everyone who does Tunisian crochet gets purled fabric, so don't worry if you think it's something you're doing wrong.

How do I stop my Tunisian crochet from curling?
Picture this: you've finished making a Tunisian crochet project, and you're so happy with it! But wait, is that a curl you see at the top? I know that feeling. Super annoying!
What is a tunisian crochet hook?
A Tunisian crochet hook is elongated, hooked at one end and capped at the other. Tunisian or 'Afghan' crochet hooks are ideal for holding lots of stitches. They are designed specifically for Tunisian crochet.

Good examples are Tunisian Trefoil hooks, Boye Tunisian hooks, Susan Bates' Afghan hooks and Addi's Tunisian hooks.

Can I use a regular crochet hook for Tunisian crochet?
Yes, you can use a regular crochet hook for Tunisian crochet, but only for small projects. The larger the project, the more difficult it will be to fit all the stitches on a regular crochet hook.

Tunisian crochet hooks are longer than traditional crochet hooks and have end caps. These features make it easier for the hook to hold more stitches.

Tunisian crochet patterns
Here are some recommendations to give you some inspiration and expand your crochet skills with some free Tunisian crochet patterns.

How to do it: Tunisian single crochet stitch
This Tunisian crochet stitch is the most basic of the stitches and is very easy to learn. (Abbreviated as Tss or also known as afghan stitch).

Learn how to do it in this video tutorial from B.Hhook Crochet.

If you prefer written instructions, read on to learn how to make a simple Tunisian stitch.

Begin the process as you would if you were doing regular crochet, with crochet chains (also known as a foundation row or foundation chain). Once you have made the foundation row, now start turning it into a tunisian stitch.

The simple tunisian stitch is made up of two parts, the forward pass and the backward pass. Remember to always keep the yarn behind the fabric.

Tunisian crochet in the round
Here is an excellent tutorial for working in the round with the simple stitch.

Tunisian crochet stitches
How many Tunisian crochet stitches are there?
There are over 400 Tunisian crochet stitches out there in total. Of course, you don't need all of them in your stitch repertoire, but here are the four most common Tunisian crochet stitches.

Stitch #1. The Simple stitch (also known as the afghan stitch) Tunisian crochet stitch.

The Tunisian single stitch makes a stretchy but almost opaque fabric. The wrong side has a bumpy texture and looks very similar to the knit stitch.
"Let's Get Cozy" Mug-Cozy by Kris Stone.

This free Tunisian crochet pattern is a simple and functional project that will show up in no time. A great project for beginners.

Tunisia Basketweave pillow crochet pattern by Tanya Eberhardt

Here's a free Tunisian crochet pattern for a pillowcase for something equally functional but a little more advanced.

A funny thing happened ... shawl by Amy Depew at The Laughing Willow

A pretty, chiffon shawl with loose, open stitches.

Flaming Gorge scarf by Hailey Redden.

When worn with a striped or multicolored scarf, the rich gradient complements the lovely stitchwork.

Tuwe by Christina Adorjan : Napster

Once you've made a few beginner patterns and have grown in your skills, try your hand at this wonderful open cropped bolero.

For more great Tunisian crochet patterns and projects, Ravelry is a great place to look.

Also, popular designer and creator Dora Ohrenstein has published a book through weaving in a modern, easy-to-access approach to Tunisian crochet.

With 30 Tunisian crochet stitches and 11 projects, this is a great introduction to this method.

The new Tunisian crochet: contemporary designs from time-honored traditions.

The new Tunisian crochet: contemporary designs from time honored traditions.
Click for more information / Buy on Amazon
Afghani Tunisian Crochet
Here are some great patterns for Tunisian crochet for Afghans and their tutorials.

Sweet gingham baby blanket video tutorial by TL Yarn Crafts.

Daydream: A Simple Striped Tunisian Crochet Blanket by a Woof Dog

Here are crochet designer and blogger Chiwei's video tutorial on how to do the simple stitch (the most common stitch in Tunisian crochet.)

Here is a related video tutorial on how to change colors in Tunisian crochet.

Honestly Easy Tunisian Crochet Afghani by AllFreeCrochet

A quick and easy weekend project, it uses bulky yarn of contrasting color, so it crochets very fast.

What is Tunisian crochet used for?
A lot of different things. You can make almost anything with Tunisian crochet. From socks to hats, shawls to knitted jackets.

Does Tunisian crochet use more yarn?
Compared to knitting, Tunisian crochet uses more yarn, along with traditional crochet.

Is Tunisian crochet difficult?
Not at all! You don't need any experience in knitting or standard crochet. So you can learn Tunisian style even if you have never used yarn and a hook or needle together.

Why is it called Tunisian crochet?
It is difficult to discern why this stitch is called Tunisian crochet since we don't know much about it. We know that people used to call it just Afghan crochet and later also called Tunisian crochet. Now you have all the tools and information you need to start a new Tunisian crochet project.

Hooks

Ergonomic Crochet Hooks Guide

What is an ergonomic crochet hook?

Ergonomics is the science of developing and designing products and infrastructure to be as comfortable, efficient and safe as possible.

Ergonomic is the word to describe a product designed for specific criteria.

In this case, the best ergonomic crochet hooks are designed to be easier to use and more comfortable for people in pain.

An excellent choice for crocheters who have tendonitis, arthritis, stress injuries or other complications.

Note: This is not medical advice. It is a review for informational purposes. If you have a medical condition, it is best to ask your doctor.

These crochet hooks are not a cure or treatment for hand pain, but are designed to be comfortable and reduce stress and discomfort in the wrists, fingers and arms.

Anyone can benefit from these great inventions!

If you have constant pain, get it checked out by a doctor. Here are some tips for reducing discomfort when crocheting.

Experiment or get recommendations from doctors to find the best one for you. Some may work for you, others not so much

Use proper lighting to avoid squinting and physical discomfort, especially for your eyes.

Avoid smaller instruments. Use larger ones

Take breaks often

Do hand exercises to stretch your limbs and muscles and avoid aches and pains

Rest your hands on something comfortable, such as a cushion or pillow

Try to maintain correct posture, sitting in a straight-backed chair may be better than the couch for some people.

Make some of these changes, and it will make a world of difference.

New tools from The Hook Nook. An assortment of Hook Nook tools and hooks on a blue background.

The different parts of a crochet hook

A crochet hook may look simple enough. A stick with a hook on the end, hence the name.

It's a bit more complicated. Knowing the anatomy of these essential tools will help you gain insight and help you choose the right one for you.

The two essential parts are the body and the head.

The body is divided into three main parts, a shank, a shaft and a throat. Some hooks also have a thumb rest.

The head is divided into a point, a groove and a lip. The end is sometimes referred to as a tip.

For more information on the anatomy of a crochet hook, Click here.

What are the different types of crochet hooks?

There are two types of crochet hooks. These are tapered and in-line.

Inline crochet hooks have the same width along the length of the hook. The head is the same width as the shaft, and the throat looks like someone has chipped a dent to create a groove. They are also called Bates hooks.

Tapered ones are larger at one end, slowly getting smaller and smaller toward the other, hence the name. The heads are generally slightly larger than the shaft. They are also called Boye Hooks.

Both have a different feel, and you probably know which one you prefer. If you don't, try both and see what you think.

Here are a few more differences between the two.

In-Line/Bates

A sharper, pointier head.

They are straight and do not taper

Hook is the same width as the handle and does not bend or curve

The deep groove makes it easier to hold the working wool in place, perfect for beginners

The sharp head is good and bad. Excellent for inserting the end into the project, although there is a chance it can catch and snag

Some patterns are too sharp and will snag every time, no matter what you do.

Yarn store good yarn

Tapered/Boye

The throat is narrower than the rest of the tool.

The tips are generally softer and rounder than the other type.

Most of the hook is not the same size as the shaft.

If your gauge or tension is tight, these may not fit you because the tapered throat makes the working loop even closer and smaller than you want. Your already tight tension may become too tight!

More comfortable for those with wrist pain. No need to move your hands too much to slide and place loops of yarn on the hook.

Also, less effort to 'wrangle' or get the yarn under control ready to crochet!

For more information on Boye Ergonomic Crochet Hooks, read my post.

These are two basic types, and are divided into specific crochet types and uses. Here is a list of these specially designed models.

Aluminum: Not designed for a specific purpose, but for a multi-purpose model. They are famous for beginners because the yarn slips easily through the hook, much easier to crochet! They come in a wide range of sizes.

Bamboo: Lightweight, soft, comfortable to wear and made from renewable material, what's not to love? They are affordable and come in many sizes.

Ergonomic: This is the type this review focuses on. It has a large soft handle designed for optimal comfort and ease of use. Some allow you to detach the hook from the handle to change it for different ones.

Knook: This is an interesting invention. With this, you can crochet something that looks like knitting! This is through a long crochet hook with a hole in one end.

Plastic: Lightweight, soft and cheap to buy, plastic hooks come in all shapes and sizes. Even in giant quantities, perfect for bulky crochet or broom lace. They're hollow, so they're not a strain on your hands when you're working.

Tunisia: Also known as cro hooks. At first glance, they don't look like a crochet hook because they are much longer and are more similar to knitting needles.

Designed especially for Tunisian crochet, they allow you to hold stitches while you work.

Steel: They have a similar feel to the aluminum ones, but are the smallest available. They are made for fine and small crochet, such as delicate lace or rugs.

Ergonomic Crochet Hooks - Your Questions Answered

Are ergonomic crochet hooks better?

If you are looking for comfort and relief while crocheting, ergonomic hooks are better. If you are looking for something functional to get the job done, standard crochet hooks are good.

Here's a quick comparison between ergonomic crochet hooks and regular crochet hooks.

Ergonomic crochet hooks

A large, sculpted handle (Furls Odyssey & Furls Streamline crochet hooks are great examples of this).

The handle is usually a different material than the rest of the instrument.

Can sometimes be disassembled to interchange ends

Designed for pain relief

Designed for comfort

Normal crochet hooks

Shank is usually smaller, and the same material as the rest of the hook

Cannot come apart

Designed to fit all types of users

Designed for functionality

What type of crochet hooks are best for beginners?

The best size for beginners is an H/8 (5mm). It is usually made of aluminum. It is not too big or too small, and very comfortable to work with. The best thread weight for this size is worsted weight thread.

What is the most popular crochet hook size?

Again, the very versatile H/8 (5mm) size! Perfect for a wide range of projects and uses.

What are the most comfortable crochet hooks?

Ergonomic crochet hooks. They are designed and made to be comfortable first.

How do I choose a crochet hook and yarn?

It is best to choose your yarn first, then examine the label. It will tell you how to choose a crochet hook that best suits the yarn.

Store for good yarn yarn

Are bamboo crochet hooks better?

If you are looking for something lightweight, affordable, capable of being used for a wide variety of projects, yes, bamboo crochet hooks are better.

What size crochet hook should I get?

These instruments come in a variety of sizes. The measurement of a hook is how long the shaft is between the head and the shank. The size of the shank determines the stitch size.

US Sizing uses letters, with B being the smallest, and Q being the largest. All hooks in the United States follow this method, except steel hooks, which use numbers. The larger the number, the smaller the shaft.

The yarn tag should help you, as it has a recommended hook size and stitches every four inches.

In general, the larger or smaller your yarn, the hook should match. If you're not sure, here's a tip to help you out.

If your stitches are too loose, you will need to go down a size. If your stitches are too tight, you need to go up a size.

Yarn Winder

A Detailed Yarn Winder Guide For Crochet Lovers

What is the point of a yarn winder?

What an amazing thing the technology is! Once upon a time, these knitting technologies were not available, but now look.

They are incredibly useful implements, but like many wonderful gadgets out there, they are quite an investment. It's good to take some time to consider the options, their specifications, and their necessity in your life.

Here are some of the benefits of a winder.

They make it convenient, but the best is having space where you can set it up for your use, especially if you use it frequently, without having to take it apart every time you need the table for something else.

They can make your crochet or knitting performance so much easier! Useful for any crocheter, regardless of skill level.

Got a lot of scrap yarn lying around? You can use the yarn ball winder to use them up and turn them into cakes, ready to use for a project!

You can sort skeins/unused or partial skeins of different weights to keep your yarn stash organized.

If you're using a yarn that changes color, yarn winders help you know where it starts and ends. It's helpful if you want to separate them into pastels of each color.

Most styles create center-pull cakes, one of the best ways to store yarn and crochet from.

So much inspiration to be found in the magazine crochet us!

WHAT WILL YOU MAKE?

What is a yarn winder?

A tool with a rather self-explanatory name, it is designed to wind yarn. Designed so that the fibers are wound into neat cakes that are flat and pull from the center.

The balls of pulled yarn do not roll in all directions and can stay in one place when crocheting with them.

Do I need a yarn ball winder?

You need a yarn ball winder if you buy skeins or skeins if you crochet a lot if you want to keep your yarn stash organized. Think of all the neat center pull balls you'll create.

Or you have a lot of leftover hands or yarn lying around that needs to be tidied up.

Some of our readers have made their own DIY yarn winder. If you are planning to do a lot of winding, buying one that is built to last would be the easiest option.

How to fix a thread winder?

If your winder is producing yarn cakes that end up twisted, don't stress. Here's how to fix a thread winder.

Twist the cone-shaped bobbin off the base.

Grab a Phillips-head screwdriver. Remove the screw from the plate below where the bobbin normally sits. Remove the plate and set it aside.

The gears are probably out of alignment, and their teeth do not fit together. Ease the larger gear back from the smaller one until they fit, and the teeth come together.

Take the chainring and screw it back on.

Replace the coil. Done!

What are balls of yarn and cakes?

You create yarn cakes (some call them yarn muffins!) with a bobbin winder. You create balls of yarn by winding by hand.

I'll give a quick comparison of the results of each winding method - first, hand winding balls by hand.

Hand winding balls of yarn move in all directions and can pull from anywhere.

Quite slow and can become tedious after long periods.

Cumbersome because you need something to hold the skeins, such as the backs of two chairs.

If you pull directly on the skein, the yarn will inevitably tangle up

You can't inspect the yarn for knots or frayed spots easily

The shape of the ball may be uneven

Yarn winder cakes, however -

A yarn cake or muffin pulls from the center and spins in a neat, flat-sided circle.

The tail or end of the yarn is in the center, hence the name, center pull cake.

One crank of the handle is equivalent to hand winding 25 times. Different models have different speeds

Keep your unwound thread in one place by using an accompanying tool, a fast thread to hold it in one place.

You can inspect for knots as you wind

The methods are similar, but the thread winder has some great bonuses. (In addition to being much faster, obviously!)

Hooks, winders, swifts, organizers, bags, pouches and more

How to choose a yarn winder

There are so many different types and options on the market! It's hard to know what to choose to buy.

To help you decide, I've compiled a list of questions to ask when considering a yarn winder.

Hand crank or an electric ball thread winder?

Electric versions are more expensive and less portable, as they must be plugged into the power supply. The motor will make noise - but they're designed to wind yarn for you!

Manual winders are cheaper, can be set up anywhere, but the yarn is wound by hand.

Do you buy skeins or hanks?

If you use skeins, you should probably invest in a winder. This makes it much easier to use. Plus, you should get a fast yarn. It keeps the yarn from tangling and threads the yarn to the winder as a crank.

If you buy skeins, you don't need to wind skeins, but it certainly makes it easier!

How much are you willing to spend?

Consider your budget! There are ones for all budgets, but make sure you don't overspend.

In general, if you're willing, the more expensive yarn winders are a good value and will last for years. But if you are not willing to commit to such an expense, there are cheaper ones that work well.

Also, remember, depending on where you live and how heavy the yarn ball winder is, shipping such a large item can make it even more expensive.

Which material do you prefer? Wood or plastic?

Plastic winders are generally cheaper and easier to assemble. They also weigh less.

Wooden thread winders are more expensive, more difficult to assemble. Still, they generally last longer, are sturdier and often come in heavy-duty models. The gears are also usually better protected, preventing the thread from tearing if it accidentally slips.

Craft Store Brand Yarn Winders

Major craft stores and retailers have their own thread winder options. I have reviewed these thread winders in the following posts.

Do you manage the tension yourself or have the machine do it?

If you hold the thread while winding, you get two benefits. These are:

You're going to be in control and can stop it if necessary, and this prevents tangles.

The cakes are much tighter. More can fit on a cake.

Remember, you don't have to, and it's good to experiment to find what's most comfortable for you.

Some models can control the tension, so it is not necessary, but this is rare, and usually on very expensive models.

What size cakes do you need/prefer?

Keep an eye out for the size of cake that the product can create. It is one of the most important specifications, so read carefully.

Twine winders The cheaper end of the price spectrum generally contains 3.5 - 4 ounces of twine. The average size is 5-8 oz, with some high quality yarn winders holding 10 oz on the market.

The largest I have seen can hold up to 16 oz! This is one of the more expensive ones, and is a heavy duty ball winder.

Will you be using it to make partial or full skeins?

Are you going to wind all the skeins of yarn for one project at a time, or make some and then make more skeins as you go?

If you do the former, you'll probably need 5-8 oz. If the latter, 4 oz will be a good choice.

How will you store the yarn?

Skeins of yarn and skeins are very annoying to store - even a few hours in a box can create an incredibly tangled mess!

A wool winder can make it much easier to store and keep your yarn stash neat and tidy.

What to look for in ball yarn winders

Is it sturdy? - It's quite an investment, so you want something built to last! If you want quality that will last you for years, you'll have to be willing to shell out a little more.

In general, plastic materials don't last as long, but they're fine if they're well made. The table clamp should also be very sturdy!

Can it be easily cranked? - Ball winders should be easy to use, smooth and not difficult to pull. Even tension and speed are important to be maintained. Otherwise, the thread will pull and catch.

You don't want to feel that the handle is going to fall off at any time.

Is It Easy And Simple To Set Up? - No one wants to waste their time or energy, they want something easy to set up at home, and so they can get down to the business of projects right away! Small ball thread winders are a good idea.

Can you keep the tension even? - You want items that can keep even tension, with a little help from you. You shouldn't have to constantly watch it to see that it doesn't end up super tight or loose!

Are the gears protected? - Thread catching and snagging on the gears halfway through the bobbin is nothing short of annoying. It could catch the gears and break the thread. You want ball winders with well protected gears.

Are the table clamps steady? - They are best when they are steady, clamped well and securely without damaging or leaving marks on the surface it is attached to.

Do you have the space to accommodate this model? - When combined with a rapier, thread winders become quite large, and can take up a lot of space.

Not everyone has generous workspace areas or an empty area to accommodate such a large configuration.

Consider the measurements before you buy! If you buy a rapier, the umbrellas can be stored folded, but still take up space when in use.

Crochet

Best Crochet Blogs, Websites, and Bloggers

Crochetverse by Stephanie Pokorny : Napster
Stephanie Pokorny of Crochetverse
About: Crochetverse. A crochet universe, imagine that! What's not to love? Well, Crochetverse is not exactly that, but it is a website full of information and tips.

Crochetverse
What we love: tips, tutorials, patterns and more abound here! The problem is knowing where to start reading!
Find Crochetverse On Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest | YouTube

Lynda's Crochet Australia : Napster
About: This is an online store selling information and a wide range of books, hooks, yarns and supplies.

Crochet Australia
What we love: The tutorials and tips are helpful.

Find Crochet Australia on Facebook

Lyns Crafts by Marily Smith
Lyns Crafts Logo
About: Marily Smith is the creator of the Lyn's Crafts craft store Lyn's Crafts. She is originally from the Philippines, and creating crochet patterns for Lyn's Crafts is her full-time job. She wouldn't have it any other way.

Lyn's Crafts
What we love: they share great free patterns! But a real highlight of the blog is the helpful tutorials and crochet information. There is a wealth of knowledge that is sure to come in handy.

Find Lyns' crafts on Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest.

Knitting and crochet by Mike and Amy
Knitting and Crochet by Mike and Amy
About: Knitting & Crochet is run by wife and husband team Amy & Mike. Amy is the in-house crafting expert, and Mike loves technology and photography. They both love sailing, travel and sustainability.

Knitting and crochet.
What we love: Packed with information and patterns, which are created by Amy with incredible skill and detail. One feature we love is that they teach you how to make specific crochet stitches. Something that would be very helpful!

Mei's AmiguruMEI : Napster
Mei from AmiguruMEI
About: Mei is a Japanese woman who loves to crochet Amigurumi, which is where the name of her blog, amiguruMEI, came from. We think the name is brilliant.

AmiguruMEI
What we love: amiguruMEI has a nice, clean look, and the photos are gorgeous. She is generous in the fact that she posts many patterns for free that must have taken her hours to make!

Find amiguruMEI on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram.

Vintage crochet by Amy
About: Amy has always been knitting, ever since she was a little girl. She was taught how to do it by her aunt, and she never stopped creating. Amy has a degree in textile design and has been a fabric designer for many years.

Yarnspirations
What we love: They post very frequently, and there is helpful and fun content to look forward to in their blog posts.

Find Yarnspirations On Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest | YouTube.

Berroco
Berroco Logo
About: Berroco Inc. is a yarn dyeing, manufacturing and design studio based in Uxbridge, Massachusetts. This is their blog where you can get a behind the scenes look at their processes, and much more.

Berroco
What we love: They post great articles containing free patterns, Q&A with makers, helpful tutorials, and more. A great site if you're wondering how to make yarn used for crochet!

Find Berroco On Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest | YouTube.

Julie's ACCROchet : Napster
Julie from ACCROchet
About: Julie Desjardins is a French-Canadian crochet designer who loves all things crochet and creative. The name of her blog, ACCROchet, comes from the French word "accro" which means addicted. So it implies crochet addict!

Repeat Crafter Me
What we love: Sarah's patterns are inspiring and colorful. There are some great ideas for vacations and gorgeous ideas for kids to wear and accessorize. Another one of the gorgeous crochet blogs around.

Quality Crochet Yarns
Check out all the beautiful yarns for your next crochet project.
A Boy and Bunting by Matt
Matt from Boy and Bunting
About: Matt loves creating beautiful colorful crochet designs and crafts. He started blogging in 2011 with his first crochet and craft blog according to Matt. He now regularly features his craft projects on this site.

The good news is that he sifted through his most popular posts on his old site and has them on A Boy and Bunting.

TL Yarn Crafts by Toni
Toni from TL Yarn Crafts
About: Toni started her blog in 2013 as a way to share her knowledge about all things crochet. Her passion led her to design her own patterns. More recently she started a podcast.

TL Yarn Crafts.
What we love: Toni's designs are lovely. You should definitely check out her crochet A Longs, tutorials and her podcast. I love her pattern: the Veronica Cocoon Cardi, an oversized blanket sweater.
Petals To Picots by Kara : Napster
Kara from Petals to Picots
About: Kara's love of crochet began when she was little and would sit and watch her grandmother crochet beautiful afghans, tablecloths, baby clothes, and so much more.

When she was nine years old, her grandmother gave Kara her hook on her own, which she still has now, finished 30 years later, she has been crocheting ever since.

From trying new patterns to designing her own, Kara always has a crochet project tucked away in her purse.

Petals to Picots
What we love: There are some great patterns, tips and tricks to be found on Kara's site. If you are wanting to learn more about Tunisian crochet, there are some great tutorials.

Make more for less Compare and save Learn more at We Crochet.
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Honey Hope by Olivia Kent
Olivia Kent of Honey Hope
About: Honey Hope by Olivia is where makers come together to make fresh crochet again and to change the world one stitch at a time.

As a crochet clothing company with a modern approach to a timeless art form, they are big proponents of the slow fashion movement. They believe that fashion should be made with love and in a sustainable way.

Hopeful Honey
What we love: There are some gorgeous patterns to try, such as ponchos, sun hats, backpacks and sweaters. Olivia also offers easy-to-follow tutorials for different techniques.

What we love: Julie loves to make modern and colorful crochet patterns. Her site has product reviews and helpful books, as well as offering crochet workshops.

Emma Varnam
Emma Varnam from Emma Varnams blog.
About: A successful knit and crochet designer with over ten years in her field, Emma Varnam loves to make. She says she can't sit down without a crochet hook or knitting needles in her hands!

Emma loves to share her journey of making.

Welcome to the eTendering eTendering Portal.
What we love: Emma has created several books on crochet, all with positive reviews. She also has several helpful video tutorials. Her writing style and blog posts are a joy to read.

Fiber Flux by Jennifer Dickerson
Jennifer Dickerson of Fiber Flux
About: FiberFlux, a site about all things "Stichy" belongs to Jennifer, a knitter and crocheter. She has a background in fine art, having been a painter for several years.

Fiber Flow
What We Love: An excellent blog for all things fiber arts, she regularly posts exclusive and excellent tutorials for easy crafts. The pattern roundups she releases are also helpful.

Find Fiber Flux On Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest | YouTube.

Maya Kuzman's Little Treasures
Maya Kuzman of The Little Treasures.
About: Maya Kuzman is a textile pattern and crochet designer who loves all things bohemian. She loves being creative and sharing her work, and always turns out amazing pieces.

Little Treasures.
What we love: As mentioned above, she is extremely creative and talented at what she does. Mixing vintage styles with a bohemian twist makes for some fantastic creations.

Look what I made by Dedri
Dedri of Look What I Made
About: It may come as a surprise, but Dedri of Look What I Made wasn't always the very enthusiastic crocheter that she is.

She used to be passionate about baking. Dedri sometimes still bakes, but her days are consumed by one fantastic project after another.

Check out what I made
What we love: A highlight of her blog is where she highlights talented creators and patterns. Many have said her newsletter is excellent and full of all kinds of goodies. Many of our reader's best crochet blogs.

Find Look What I Made On Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest

My recycled bags by Cindy
My recycled bags logo
About: Cindy, or RecycleCindy as she is known on her blog, was always excited about helping the environment and crochet. In 2008, she decided to create My Recycled Bags, combining both loves.

My Recycled Bags
As I was compiling this list, it was so hard not to get distracted! So many talented creators, great designs and enough inspiration to last a lifetime!

Lots of resources to help me get started on my crochet journey. Feel free to follow What We Love: Tamara's crochet patterns are adorable. She writes patterns for shawls, hats and baby sweaters. There is a library of crochet tutorials in both video and image form to help you with techniques.

One of my favorite crochet blogs.

Repeat Crafter Me by Sarah Zimmerman
Sarah Zimmerman of Repeat Crafter Me
About: Sarah has always been crafty and has had a love for art, crafting and creating. In 2011 she taught herself to crochet and seemed to have unleashed a hidden talent.

She quickly began designing pieces and writing patterns.

FAQ

Gonzalez Painters & Contractors Inc.

Business Information:

Name: Gonzalez Painters & Contractors Inc.
Website: https://fgpainting.com
Address: 4301 Bennett Memorial Rd, Durham, NC 27705
Phone: (919) 477-6058

Description:

Gonzalez Painters & Contractors Inc. is a family-owned painting business rooted in the community. Renowned for their expertise, they specialize in delivering top-notch interior and exterior painting services customized to your unique requirements. In addition to their painting prowess, they are experienced roofers serving Durham, offering dependable roofing solutions for both residential and commercial properties. Trust Gonzalez Painters & Contractors Inc. for all your painting and roofing needs.

Additional Information:

When it comes to finding reliable painters in Durham, look no further than Gonzalez Painters & Contractors Inc. This family-owned business has built a strong reputation for delivering exceptional interior and exterior painting services. Whether you’re looking to refresh your living room or give your home’s exterior a vibrant new look, their team of skilled interior painters in Durham is ready to bring your vision to life.

Gonzalez Painters & Contractors Inc. prides itself on understanding the unique needs of each client. They tailor their services to ensure that every brushstroke reflects your personal style and preferences. Their attention to detail and commitment to quality make them a trusted choice among local homeowners. If you’re considering a color change or simply need some maintenance work, their interior painters in Durham can guide you through the selection process to achieve the perfect finish.

In addition to their painting expertise, Gonzalez Painters & Contractors Inc. also specializes in roofing solutions. If you’re in need of roof repair in Durham, their skilled team has you covered. They understand how important a sturdy roof is for the safety and comfort of your home, and they take pride in offering reliable roofing services for both residential and commercial properties. Their experience in roofing ensures that your project is completed efficiently and effectively.

When you choose Gonzalez Painters & Contractors Inc., you’re choosing a company that values community and quality craftsmanship. Their exterior painters in Durham not only enhance the curb appeal of your property but also protect it from the elements. With durable workmanship and high-quality materials, your home will look stunning while remaining resilient against harsh weather conditions.

For anyone looking for painters in Durham or reliable roofing services, Gonzalez Painters & Contractors Inc. is a local gem. They are dedicated to providing exceptional customer service and ensuring that every job meets your expectations. Whether you need a fresh coat of paint or a roof repair in Durham, this family-owned business is ready to help you achieve the results you desire. Don’t hesitate to reach out and discover how they can transform your space today!

Location:

FAQ

Brust Fencing and Gates

Business Information:

Name: Brust Fencing and Gates
Website: https://www.brustfencingandgates.com/
Address: 4 N Th St, Williams, Arizona 86046
Phone: +1 (928) 600-0410

Description:

Brust Fencing and Gates is your trusted partner for both residential and commercial fencing solutions in Northern Arizona, serving the Flagstaff area and beyond. Our expertise spans a wide array of fencing services, from expansive ranch fencing to durable lifetime steel options. We also specialize in crafting handrails for stairs and decks, as well as providing standard residential privacy fences. What sets us apart is our ability to custom-manufacture welded gates in our dedicated workshop, ensuring that each product meets your specific needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for functional security or aesthetic appeal, Brust Fencing and Gates delivers quality craftsmanship tailored to your project.

Additional Information:

When it comes to finding a reliable Flagstaff fence company, Brust Fencing and Gates stands out as a top choice for both residential and commercial fencing needs. Located in beautiful Northern Arizona, this company offers a wide array of fencing services tailored to meet the unique requirements of local homeowners and businesses alike. From large-scale ranch fencing that harmonizes with the picturesque landscape to sturdy lifetime steel fencing, Brust Fencing ensures that every installation is built to last.

In addition to their durable fencing options, Brust Fencing and Gates also specializes in creating custom welded gates. These gates are crafted in their private shop, allowing for unique designs that can enhance both security and aesthetic appeal. Whether you need handrails for stairs or decks or standard residential privacy fences, Brust Fencing provides high-quality materials and workmanship that elevate your property while offering peace of mind.

A key benefit of working with Brust Fencing is their commitment to customer satisfaction. As a trusted Flagstaff fencing provider, they take the time to understand each client’s vision and offer tailored solutions that fit their specific needs. This personal touch not only makes the process smoother but also results in a finished product that truly reflects the homeowner’s style and preference.

Residents of Flagstaff and surrounding areas know the importance of choosing a fencing contractor who is familiar with the local climate and terrain. Brust Fencing takes pride in their vast experience in Northern Arizona, which allows them to recommend the best materials and designs that withstand the elements while enhancing property value. Their attention to detail and expert craftsmanship make them a go-to option for anyone searching for reliable fencing services.

If you’re looking to enhance your property’s curb appeal and security, consider reaching out to Brust Fencing and Gates. As a leading name in the Flagstaff fencing industry, they are dedicated to providing top-notch service and high-quality materials. With their expertise, you can have peace of mind knowing that your fencing project is in good hands from start to finish. Whether you need a standard fence or a custom gate, Brust Fencing is here to help you every step of the way.

Location:

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