There are many types of crochet hooks—size, material, etc. But, each hook has five basic parts that perform a specific function. At the end of this lesson, you will find a link to more detailed information about hooks and what you can do with them. For now, here is the basic anatomy of a hook:
- The Point: This is the end of the hook that has … hey, a hook! This is the part of the hook that is inserted into your project.
- The Throat: This is the area of your hook right behind the hook. The throat catches your yarn.
- The Shaft: This part of the hook lies between the throat and the flat part of your hook. Some larger hooks do not have a flat part especially if they are made of plastic. So, this is the area approximately one inch in length behind the throat of the hook. The shaft holds the loops that you are working with, and for the most part, determines the size of your stitches.
- The Thumb Rest: This is the flat part of your hook. Many people hold their hooks between thumb and forefinger. I do not. However you choose to hold your hook, the thumb rest will be the section of hook that will help keep you in check.
- The Handle: This is the rest of the hook. You actually don’t hold the handle much since your hand and fingers will primarily stay in the area of the thumb rest.
How do I hold my crochet hook?
This is how I personally hang onto my hook. Remember, you hold the hook in the way that is comfortable for you and still produces the results you want. So, here I go.
- With the hook parallel to the ground and the point and the handle at the 9 and 3 o’clock positions, place your thumb on the thumb rest. The throat should be facing you. Remember, the throat is the area just behind the hook part of the point.
- Close your remaining fingers over the top of the hook. For me, the handle part of the hook rests right in the crease of the base of my pinky finger and palm.
- My index finger rests on the top of the hook somewhere in the shaft area. My thumb and middle fingers have moved their way to the area just in front of the thumb rest.
Things to think about in preparation to crochet
- Don’t grip the hook like you’re hanging on for dear life. Be loose and relaxed. Crocheting is fun.
- I use my index finger to feel the loops on the shaft.
- Your thumb and middle fingers, believe it or not, will be holding yarn and keeping tension in order to create beautiful and even projects.
- I don’t use my index finger of the other hand to loop or do whatever it is my mother and all other sighted crocheters do to crochet. I use my other hand to feel my work and yarn over.
Here’s a great link to an article called, “Getting Hooked on Crocheting,” by Susan Brittain. I found this article on a site called Getting Hooked on Crocheting – For Dummies. I found her descriptions to be very clear. and for those who can see, there are diagrams. Also, she helped remind me of all the parts of a hook. I couldn’t remember the exact names of each section. So, thanks Susan Brittain.
Signing off for now,
Bay Area Blind Mom
Bay Area Blind Mom 