Choosing Tunisian Crochet Hook for Beginners

Tunisian crochet is a subset of crochet craft that shares much resemblance with knitting. Even the stitches have a knit-like look though you use the specialized Tunisian crochet hooks for the craft. They are also known as Interchangeable Tunisian or Afghan crochet hooks. They are different than regular singled ended crochet hooks because of they are used for crocheting. They are longer than typical hooks as in Tunisian crochet, you work on a two-row pattern, the foundation row where you pick up stitches on the crochet hook and work them off in the next row. As you need to carry the stitches on your hook, you need to work with an interchangeable cord to get the right length. This is even for crocheting in the round, you will need a cord to work out the circumference. So, if you are just starting, let us guide you through choosing the best Tunisian crochet hooks for beginners.

Tunisian crochet hooks with interchangeable circular cables

An interchangeable Tunisian crochet hook consists of a hook that has a base which can be attached to a flexible cord of different lengths. It is much like the tip of the interchangeable circular knitting needle with the difference that instead of a pointy tip on the other end you have a hook. Essentially, the cord holds the stitches. The interchangeable crochet hooks allows to switch out different cord lengths with the various size crochet hook heads. You can connect the right length according to the need of the project. Interchangeable Tunisian crochet hooks can be bought individually or in a set. The different hook sizes and varying cord lengths make it an ultimate choice as one set can be used to work multiple projects and not just Tunisian but almost all kinds of crochet. If you do not attach the cord, the hook is free for other crochet stitches.

Though the interchangeable Tunisian crochet hooks are the most popular, the other options are similar to single ended crochet hook but are a lot longer than typical hooks. Similar to single pointed knitting needles, there is one hook on end and a stopper on the other end. This prevent loops from falling off the other end so they can hold many stitches and give more room to work.

The other type of are double ended crochet hooks much like the double pointed knitting needles (DPNs). With hooks on either end, it is most frequently used when working Tunisian crochet in the round. The crochet hook allows to grab stitches from both ends. It also used for colorwork in crochet as both hooks can work on different colors of yarn at the same time.

So, now that you know about the Tunisian crochet hooks, here’s what you need to know before choosing one.

• Choose the right hook size. As with regular crochet, you’ll use a crochet hook size that corresponds with yarn weight. You’ll find the hook size mentioned on the yarn label or the pattern. Many crocheters recommend to use a hook that’s 1-2 sizes above the standard given for a yarn for Tunisian crochet a sit tends to be tighter than regular crochet.

 

• Consider the hook length. If you are working on a scarf or a dishcloth, make sure to have the right length so that the stitches can easily stay on the hook and crud length.
• Gather your regular crochet supplies for your craft. Make sure you have accessories such as stitch markers, a tapestry needle, a row counter and a tape measure. 

With the right crochet hooks and accessories from Knitter’s Pride you can begin with Tunisian crochet! Choose our Symfonzie Dreamz or Ginger range if you are a fan of working with wood. Bamboo Tunisian crochet hook sets are ideal for beginners as well as advanced makers.

Ready to begin? Happy crafting with Tunisian Crochet Hooks!