Crochet · equipment guide
Best Crochet Hooks for Beginners (2026)
The hook you start with makes a bigger difference than you’d think.
We tested eight popular beginner hooks and narrowed it down to three — plus one set to actively avoid. If you’re following our top beginner course, you want a 5mm hook. Our top pick comes in that size.
Clover Amour 5mm Crochet Hook
£8.50
The soft-grip handle genuinely reduces hand fatigue — which matters more than you’d think when you’re learning, because beginners grip too tight. The aluminium head is smooth enough that yarn glides on and off without catching. It’s the hook we’d buy if we were starting again.
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Also worth considering
Two honest alternatives
Prym Ergonomics Hook
£6.99
Similar ergonomic grip, slightly cheaper. The head shape is subtly different — some people prefer it, some don’t. You won’t go wrong with either.
Basic aluminium hook (any brand)
£1.50
A plain aluminium hook with no grip will get you through any beginner course. Your hand might ache after long sessions, but it’s a perfectly fine way to try crochet before investing more.
What we wouldn’t recommend
Skip this
Cheap multi-hook sets (10+ hooks for under £5)
The heads are rough, the sizing is often inaccurate, and you only need one hook to start. Buy one good hook in the right size rather than a bag of mediocre ones you won’t use.
What matters
What actually makes a good beginner hooks
Grip comfort
Beginners grip harder than experienced crocheters. An ergonomic handle reduces fatigue and lets you practise longer.
Head smoothness
A smooth head lets yarn glide on and off. Rough heads snag yarn, which messes up your tension.
Size accuracy
A 5mm hook should actually be 5mm. Cheap hooks are often slightly off, which affects your gauge.
Single hook vs set
You only need one size to start. Don’t buy a set until you know what sizes your projects will need.
Common questions
- Can I just buy cheap hooks to start?
- Yes — a basic aluminium hook will work fine. But if you think you'll stick with crochet, an ergonomic hook makes a noticeable difference to comfort.
- Which size hook should I start with?
- 5mm. It works with DK-weight yarn (the most common beginner yarn) and it's the size used in most beginner courses, including the ones we recommend.
- Aluminium or plastic?
- Aluminium. It's smoother, more consistent, and yarn glides better. Plastic hooks tend to have rough edges that catch the yarn.
- Do I need a hook set?
- Not to start. One 5mm hook is all you need for your first course. Buy additional sizes when you have a project that calls for them.
Ready when you are
Got your kit? Now pick your course.
We’ve reviewed the best beginner crochet courses — find the one that suits how you like to learn.