Lesson 1

Supplies, Yarns and Tools


The process of crochet has two basic tasks:

  1. Creating fabric by interlocking loops of yarn.
  2. New bights of yarn must be passed through the fabric, and then secure them.

This process of crocheting must incorporate the proper hooks, yarn and tools to complete a textile art.

Click each coloured tab to view information about the activity.


  • Crochet hooks must match the material component of a project.

  • Larger hooks use with thick, bulky yarn.

  • Smaller hooks with fine, thin material.

  • Crochet hooks come in aluminum, plastic and steel.

  • Specialized hooks are used such as lace hooks, jumbo wooden hooks, and double-hooks.

  • Yarns vary in fiber content, texture, weight and ply.

  • Many materials, including torn fabric strips and leather cords can undergo transformation into a completed project.

  • The fiber content of the yarn affects the performance.
  1. lace is for fine delicate projects.
  2. super fine and fine are used for baby projects and sportswear.
  3. light and medium are used for clothing and afghan projects.
  4. bulky and super bulky are used for blankets and thick hats and scarfs.
  • Purchase the yarn from among those recommended for the chosen project.

  • If substituting the yarn, select one which is as close as possible in weight and type to the yarns recommended in the pattern.

  • Check the label for dye lot number. Purchase all the yarn needed for the project from the same dye lot to avoid color variations.

  • Check the label for care information, tension and recommended needle size.

  • Check the yarn recovery. Stretch and release a 15 cm length. Does it return to its original size?



A crochet hook must match the material component of a project.



A tape measure is an invaluable tool in keeping stitches the proper size for a pattern.



A tapestry needle also called a darning needle is used for sewing sections together.





A stitch counter keep track of the number of stitches, number of rows, or both.



A stitch marker aids in determining where one round ends and another round begins.