How to Hold a Crochet Hook for Beginners

      As a beginner, you are probably wondering "How do I hold my crochet hook?" The answer to that question is simple, whatever works best for you! Most crocheters use one of two methods and both work great!

     Today, I will explain the most common ways to grip the hook and help you choose the one that works best for you!

     The way you hold your hook matters! Holding your comfortably can help reduce hand and wrist fatigue, improve stitch consistency and tension, allows you to crochet for longer periods of time, and helps you feel comfortable and build confidence in your new hobby.

Crocheting should feel therapeutic and relaxing, not like a chore! As you read about the different hook grips, try them out and see which one feels most comfortable and allows you to crochet with ease!

Let's get started!

The Pencil Grip

This grip is exactly what it sounds like. You hold the hook just like you would hold a pen or pencil.

How to Hold the Hook:

1. Hold the crochet hook between yout thumb and index finger.
2. Rest the hook lightly against your middle finger.
3. Keep your grip comfortable and relaxed.
4. Allow your fingers to guide the movement of the hook.

The pencil grip works great for detailed work, allows you to make precise movements with equal tension, and usually feels natural to most crochet beginners

The Knife Grip

The knife grip is the most commonly  used crochet hook grip for most crocheters. For this method - you hold the hook very much like you would hold a knife. 

How to Hold the Hook:

1. Place your thumb on the flat grip area of the hook.
2. Wrap the rest of your fingers around the handle.
3. Rest your index finger along the top for control.
4. Use your wrist and hand to move the hook.

The knife grip gives ultimate control, is most comfortable for time-consuming projects, and is usually the most comfortable way to hold the hook. 

      Now it's time for you to test these methods out and see which one works best for you! There is no right or wrong here. The best hook grip is what feels natural,comfortable, and allows you to maintain even tension. If you are new to crochet, try both grip methods out for a few rows of basic single crochet and see which one flows naturally for you. 

      Not sure how to keep your hands relaxed and stay comfortable while you crochet? Let me give you a few tips to try when you get behind the hook:

1. Keep a relaxed grip on the hook. You dont want to hold the hook too loosely or too tightly. 
2. Take frequent breaks during longer crochet periods to stretch your fingers, hands, and wrists. Feel free to put the project down and step away for a few minutes!
3. Choose a hook that feels comfortable. There are a variety of crochet hooks such as  aluminum, wood, plastic, and metal hooks with ergonomic(rubber)handles!
4. Practice, practice, practice. The only way to get better at something is to keep trying. 

      Learning to hold the hook is the first step of your crochet journey! Crochet is so fun and makes the way for so much creativity. Give yourself grace as you learn and remember that every crocheter, beginner to advanced, starts with their very first stitch!

Happy Crocheting!

   -Katie, Anchored Threads