The Looping Tools

TLDR:

You can start crocheting with less than $10 worth of supplies:

• Crochet hook

• Yarn

• Scissors

• Stitch markers

• Darning needle

It doesn’t take much to start crocheting. However, be aware that it’s a slippery slope and you will quickly acquire more yarn and hooks than you will ever need.

You may be tempted to purchase a crochet kit that comes with everything you need for a project. These usually include the right-amount of yarn, a hook, a couple stitch markers, a darning needle, and a pattern (instructions). If you go this route, you get what you pay for. Quality kits with quality supplies and a helpful pattern can cost around $30. If you are just starting and have the disposable income, these are a good option. Not only do you get supplies that require no guess-work, these patterns usually have helpful instructions and tips that will allow you to build skills for future projects. There are kits available for less, but use caution. My first kit was $15 from Target. It had everything I needed and the instructions were decent for a beginner. I did need to supplement with watching videos online. I knew this seller and I trusted this seller. If you purchase a cheap kit from an unknown seller, you might be purchasing AI slop—the pattern may not be legit and the supplies may be wrong. The good news here is that you can build your own “kit” for the same price of taking a gamble on that cheap crochet kit.

Thanks to Gen Z for making crochet trend, crochet supplies can be found in many stores that sell craft supplies. Here is a shopping list with estimated costs:

• Crochet hook ($1-3). Purchase the size hook needed for your yarn (which is listed on the label). A size 4 mm is my most commonly used hook.

• Yarn ($1-5). Yarn comes in many different sizes, fibers, and textures. Get what you like and what your project needs. If you already have a size 4 mm hook in your hand, look for a sport-weight or worsted yarn (which is listed on the label).

• Scissors ($2-8). You probably already have scissors at home. They don’t need to be fancy, they just need to cut yarn.

• Stitch markers ($4-9). A stitch marker helps mark your first or last stitch. These are very important for beginner. However, you can save the money and use something from around the house, like a paper clip, Bobby pin, or a bread tie.

• Darning needle ($2-4). This is like a sewing needle, but a little bigger. It helps to weave in the ends of your project or to sew on parts if you’re looping an amigurumi. I prefer the metal needles that are bent because they slide easier through the yarn and around tight spaces. Darning needles are often sold in kits with stitch markers.

If you’re doing the math, you can build your own kit with $10–or less if you have items already at home. You can also check in with your local library. Some have yarn and supplies available for no cost. Library’s are great!

Now what about a pattern? A pattern is like a recipe. You can buy them or you can find free ones online. Or, you can wing it and not use one. I like to support crochet artists by purchasing patterns, even when they have it available for free on a website (often with ads). These designers sell patterns on their own websites or through seller sites like Etsy or Raverly. They are usually inexpensive, ranging from a few dollars to $10.

Now that you have your supplies, you’re ready to become a crochetier!