It would be nice to think that if you did want to change to another, more comfortable, hook especially for a large project that you could do that without disappointment... in a perfect world I suppose.
I am almost 70 years old and I learned to crochet when I was around 7 or 8 from my grandmother. I have her hooks and still use them to this day. They have letters on them, no numbers. They are all either Boye or Susan Bates. I have never found a need to replace them as they still work! LOL. I was taught to use the same hook for the whole project unless told to change it within the pattern. I do that. I think that was probably the best advice I ever got about crochet! I have made and sold many afghans and other projects in all these years. Enjoy your crochet journey and dont stress about the small stuff. And it is ALL small stuff especially hook sizes. just do as grandma said and use the same hook throughout the project! When getting new hooks I recommend making a swatch with the yarn you plan to use and measure it to determine the size you want your project to be. Enjoy!
I did not receive any advice but I also use the same hook for a project, for me that make totally sens, unless you loose your hook their is no need to change it. to be honest I was wondering why making twenty minutes video to talk about "hook scandal"... I was not brave enough to watch till the end 🙈
I'm also nearly 70, learnt to knit & crochet at age 4/5 & am using the same old needles & hooks mum used. I have a gauge to measure them & they are all correct.
@@rosertaylor6139 I would be using my first set of Susan Bates hooks but I had children then grand children and now nanny a toddler and they all have gotten ahold of my hooks and lost them. The last one is lying under my charges back porch as it fell through the floor boards when she was teasing me and dropped just exactly right.
There are little cards with holes that allow you to insert your hook to verify your hook size. It’s handy for older hooks too where the number may have worn off through use. This tool is available at Michael’s, Joann’s etc. worth the couple of dollars to keep in your kit.
I never realized that crochet hook sizes vary by manufacturer! Thank you for this public service announcement! I just upgraded to a new set of Clover crochet hooks, also. This is the first video I have watched from you. It caught my eye because of your funny title. I have never seen the words “crochet” and “scandal” together in the same sentence before! You made me laugh! But I am going to now go measure all my crochet hooks! I have many from my grandmother. But could use a new Size 10… 😊 Love your narrative and your obsession for perfection. I will admit I am the same way. I subscribed immediately and look forward to your next video! 😊
@@monicavazquez3744 so long as the head can fit through the hole easily (hint, Boye needles cannot), the gauge will work. Some even have the letter size for hooks listed on them along with the mm size. You want to measure the shaft of the hook past where the taper is coming from the head, but before the wide part in the middle or the handle on those that have them.
I'm so happy to have found your channel and rant today. I'm hooked on clover! ❤ The raised label on the "grip" part of the metal hooks were uncomfortable. Blister before end of an afghan, yikes! Thank you for saying it out loud.
My first clover hook arrived this morning and I realised the second I picked it up that it's a different size from my other unbranded hook that should be the same size. I had been thinking that my project was looser than the images of the example. I'll need to keep on with my other hook until my next project. I've only just discovered your channel and my sense of humour has found your video a real treat. Can't wait to watch more. Lots of love from blustery Scotland. X
Yup! Been harping on this for years. It's not just Clover/generic. It's all of them. First there's the letter b.s. then I noticed that I was still having different results with different hooks even when I used the metric measurements. Boye, bates, all of them. Get a hook gauge and check every hook before you use it!
I was taught never change your hook in the middle of a project, also stick with the same brand once you find out what you like for consistency . It could be the way you hold the new hook vs the old hooks. I prefer all metal for that reason, someone gave me one of those ergonomic hooks and it made my stitches looser because my grip was different. I’m glad you found what you like.
I also notice a huge difference in the way I crochet if the hook is in line or tapered, never mind if I am practicing Tunisian crochet or even mosaic crochet.
I both knit and crochet. For crochet hooks I like Boyle for the most part but it has to have a long shaft and sharp tongue. Lessons from the knitting world: 1) tool materials matter: wood for slick yarn and metal for sticky yarn; 2) millimeters matter: size 6 knitting needles come in both 4.0 mm and 4.25 mm; 3) the best measurement gauge for both needles and hooks is one that has u shaped openings to slide the hook/needle into. That way if the shaft is oval, square, or triangular- you can still measure it.
I too learned that it’s best to use the same “hook” through out the project. Then after looking at a few crochet videos, decided to invest in the Clover Amour hooks, they are excellent, don’t split the yarn and feel great in your hand. Love your videos.
Cheaper hooks and cheaper tape measures too! I have about 6 tape measures I've collected over the years and 1 of them was a bit off, so I held it up against my husband's FATMAX and it was measuring 8mm as 10mm. I checked all my tape measures then, and only the one was out but it's definitely worth checking them if you get one in a pack with other things 😂 Happy crocheting ❤️😁
I have two tables set in an L shape thatvi work at. Each table I taped a 9 in measuring tape to it. Or I thought I did until two halves of my project were the wrong size. The older one was accurate, but the newer one was .8in for every 1in. that it should have been.
This happened to me with Boye knitting needles. My husband measured each needle with his calipers and all of the Boye needles were not accurate. Every other knitting needle of other brands were accurate, including some very inexpensive bamboo needles. It really upset me as well, but also explains why sweaters didn’t turn out to the same size. Scandalous? Most definitely!!!
I adore my Tulip Etimo hooks so they are the only ones that I use. I had to save up for them, so I appreciate that they are rather spendy. The inconsistencies that you are addressing are concerning. Thank you for posting this.
I also have a set of tulip hooks. Yes they where pricey but money well spent. I was taught that whatever size you start with you finish with that size. I have been using these hooks for 10 plus years. I tried using a regular boye hooks and I could not crochet with them. I agree with you that it is concerning. Especially when working on a project and finding the sizing is way off after putting all that time in.
I have the brown/gold tulips and they’re my favourite hooks. Saving up for some pink ones. We don’t get discounts that the US crocheters get, i have seen some folk get hooks at half price with coupons. Very jealous 😢
I've been crocheting for over 40 years. There are several things that affect the outcome of a project. It is not just the size of the hook. The yarn you use is also important. The type of head on the hook is also important. An in-line head, as with Bates hooks will give different results from the results you get with hook heads that are not in-line, such as with Boye hooks. The tension you use is actually more important than the hook size. Everyone's tension is different. That is why it is always wise to do a test swatch before you begin a project, especially if you are making something where the size of the finished project is important, such as with fitted garments. Also, with time and experience, you will begin to know your hooks and what results you can expect with whichever size hook you use. If you buy any new hooks, it is probably a good idea to work some practice pieces to get used to the hook and see what kind of results you get with it with different yarns.
I never change crochet hooks during a project, it can change your tension :) and if you change material that can affect it too :) You could make one more of the smaller squares and then make a front for a pillow to go with your blanket :)
“🎶ONE OF THESE THINGS IS NOT LIKE THE OTHERS🎶” popped into my head as I was listening to you. Probably play in my head all day!😂I learnt the hard way too that the sizing of different brands of crochet hooks are not all the same!!😳I started with the cheap metal ones too but gradually switching over to Clovers. Love them and easier on my hands!! I’m waiting to buy a 7mm and a 10mm. I subscribed while watching your very first video!👏🤗🌷
I am a total crochet newbie and really appreciate this valuable information before I make this mistake. I was searching UA-cam videos for recommendations on what hooks to buy. I will buy these Clover hooks one at a time and begin my crocheting journey with quality hooks. Thanks for sharing!
Start with a G or H hook. I preferred an H when I started, but many amigurami (stuffed animal) kits have Gs. Practice every stitch first, with inexpensive light yarn. Make a small square of just single crochet (sc) stitches, then another of half-double crochet (hdc), then double crochet (dc) and triple crochet (tc). Do it again until you're comfortable, then start a simple project. Also note that triple/treble are interchangeable... and UK stitch sizes are different from U.S. sizes: UK double = U.S. single UK half treble = U.S. half double UK treble = U.S. double UK double treble = U.S. treble UK triple treble (tr-tr)= U.S. double treble (dtr) UK miss-stitch (ms) = U.S. skip-stitch (sk-st) UK yarn-over (YOH) = U.S. yarn-over (YO) Chain stitch (ch) and slip-stitch (sl-st) are the same in both. Most crocheters will mention that in the beginning of their pattern/video though. Good luck!
Thank you so much for all the valuable information! I'm learning to knit now and think I'm going to learn to crochet later. Not too later...I'm getting older fast. Lol. Thanks again. Will got get those hooks soon.
Hi lovely from New Zealand. I am so glad you addressed this big problem. I am an avid crocheter and I find this issue very frustrating. It is also the same in wool. Here in New Zealand and also in Australia the yarn is just as confusing. It should be the same universally. EG yarn we have 3 ply, 4 ply and 5 ply which is basically baby wool. Then we go to 8 ply it is Double knit in other countries, and then 12 ply. Then you have worsted weight. Could someone explain that for this 66 year old. Love your work 🥰
@christinetracey8090 I feel the exact same way you do! I hate it when I don't understand something, even when someone patiently explains it. Just doesn't make sense to this 72 y/o in sunny Arizona!😉
I live in South Australia so can relate to the ply issue compared to watching people from the states that have different measurements/ways to tell thickness of yarn but am slowly learning! I know that the weight #4 in the US is equal to our 10 ply, don't forget that one! To make it even more confusing not all 8 ply is the same, some 8 ply definitely seems thicker than others! My sister taught me that the "ply" really refers to how many strands of yarn are wound together, so depending on the thickness of each strand you can end up with all different thicknesses of yarn! Sorry if I've made it even trickier for you now! Crystal from Bag-O-Day explains it better than I can! :)
Thank you for this information. A few months ago I began crocheting after buying a metal hook kit on Amazon. I trusted their sizes 0.6 to 6.5 . I've been thinking about trying a larger hook. Both of my wrists have been broken (different falls). One was a clean break, but my right one is in 8 pieces that couldn't be surgically repaired. Sometimes i have to take crochet breaks, even when I wear a wrist brace. Perhaps a larger hook would be better for me. If you haven't given away your extra hook, I'd appreciate it...And, Thank You for your work as a Nurse Practitioner. An NP took excellent care of my late father and years earlier when I had medical issues. One of the worst events was an allergic reaction to an Asthma drug, Singulair, that sent me to a transplant unit. Prior to core biopsipies, I discovered 2 bottles of the wrong anesthesia were delivered to my room - I'm allergic to sulfite preserved drugs. When I was transferred to ICU, I told my ICU nurse about that allergy. She found that the third bottle was also wrong. She personally returned the anesthesia and ensured the pharmacy hand filled the prescription properly. I survived the biopsies and treatment protocols enabled me to recover without a transplant. A few years earlier a sulfited anesthetic was injected during a tooth extraction, even though I notified the practice in writing and verbally about my sulfite sensitivity. That caused anaphylaxis and temporary paralysis with life long side effects. Everyone in the nursing field has to be precise.You're dealing with people's lives. Your attention to detail is appreciated when applied to creative endeavors when precision affects that work. I just discovered your channel and this is the first video I've seen. Stay well.
Only just found you! Or rather the UA-cam algorithm did 😅 This is new to me. Been crocheting over 50years and never ever suspected this. Just subscribed and id like to be put forward for a free Clover hook please 😊❤ like to try one as ive been using same ones all these years as they were my mum's 😮 Best wishes Jan Manchester UK 🇬🇧 xx
The clover amor are my favorite hooks they have been for years. I can honestly tell you I have never measured any of my hooks and you have a very valid point with the metal hooks.. thank you for all the information about the hooks. I would be upset too. If I had already started a project again thank you for the information. See you in your next video. Hugs from Chicago.
Thanks for the information, always good to learn new things. Your examples and explanation were easy to grasp. I also appreciated the nurse /accuracy in measures. I was in that field for over 40 years. Keep up the great videos.
I have been crocheting for 70 years and have never measured my crochet hooks but I did convert to Clover Amour hooks last year and love them. There was a scandal at that time about some counterfeit Clover Amours so I made sure mine were genuine but I haven’t heard about the sizes of some hooks being inaccurate. After seeing this, though, I compared a hook that came with a cheap amigurumi kit with my Clover Amour of the same marked size and it was significantly different. Thanks so much for this video. Not something I would have ever thought of doing.
I found this too and had to tear out my whole project. It is so disappointing to see that such a simple standard can’t be met. So, now we measure. Makes you wonder what else there is to discover in the tools of crochet. Found a great book on yarns and the different types and which ones to consider using for which projects. So many different types with different characteristics. The Knitters Book of Yarn by Grablewski. It’s for crocheters too. Really cool info on yarns. Linda
I bought some cheap aluminum hooks on amazon that looked like the clover amour....when I compared one size H ....it was bigger on the actual Hook end part than the amour By about a half size!!!! I am not using the cheapies any more. I did splurge and bought a FURLS silver hook and fell in love with it because of the weight. I am 75 and have been crocheting since I Was about 8 or 9 and always used my mom's hooks which were Boyles or Bates. I don't like the plastic hooks because they are too light. Your video really opened my eyes to go check some of mom's mismatched hooks. BTW I also have a set of hooks that were my grandma's who crocheted doillies. Thanks for the heads-up.😊
You crochet beautifully. Your granny squares are gorgeous. Clover Amour hooks are my favorite. I also have the cheaper hooks. They don’t even compare but I’ve never measure them. I’m glad I found your channel. I subscribed.
That was so eye opening and I'm so glad you told us about this! I've never had a reason not to trust a crochet hook sizing before but am always grateful to learn about anything like this before you've spent hours and hours on a project, so am so glad I watched this. Just recently subscribed having been drawn to you from the hexagon cardigan video where I gave some suggestions of other channels to get some guidance from, so am hoping that helped. I'm not that educated on the different brands of crochet hooks available and haven't tried the Clover brand but they look lovely! Your spare hook would be greatly appreciated if you felt like posting it to Australia to find a new home for it! 😊😃
After every project. From hats to blankets I wash them in Gain laundry detergent and Downey fabric softener when I finish. I put them in the dryer with at least 2 bounce dryer sheets. They come out so soft and smelling wonderful. When I give them as gifts everyone is amazed at how wonderfully soft they are and how wonderful they smell.
I have Prym hooks plus many cheap, generic ones. I never measured them and I take your word on the cheap ones being mis-labeled. I bought a set of Clover Amor Tunisian crochet interchangeable hooks to learn that craft. Having reputable tools makes the job easier and as you say a better experience.
Just returned 3 sets of hooks to Amazon for the same reason and ended up splurging on the We Crochet Dot hooks because I love Clover but the handles are too short but the shaft is amazing. Love your squaresize and that yarn. I am currently making 200 pumpkins for my son's fall barn wedding.
I always used one hook for every project. Things like the clover and "thicker" handle crochet hooks. You hold them differently regardless. The tension and consideration will come with different results as well as the head of the hook. They have different shapes. I've never done this but I personally interchange between all hook types. I have so many I try to keep them together with that specific project. You have created beautiful granny squares!!!!! ❤
Loved your video. I finally changed my hooks after watching another crochet person on UA-cam. I have Clover Hooks and Tulip. What I was having issues with was the yarn splitting. Afterward, I changed brands to Clover Hooks and found I no longer had this issue. I ended up trying Tulip brand and fell in love with these hooks also. Never thought to measure my hooks. Just took the companies word for it. Love your color choices. ❤
I have all different brands of crochet hooks and my favorite, by far is CLOVER!!!...I think what you have discovered is quite interesting!..I have wondered at times if they were off...I just never took the time to measure them... Thank you for sharing!... Now I know!
Hi Nick, I think the moral or lesson of the crochet hook sizing is to use the same exact hook for the entire project. I try to do that when I'm crocheting. I also use stitch markers with a hook size letter bead so when I put the project away I can use the correct size hook. Happy crocheting!
Agreed. And I do that with all my projects. Except I was excited to use my comfy new hooks and the 6mm transition worked just fine, so I was just more shocked at how wrong the 10mm hook difference was!
Hey Nick, enjoyed your clip and understand the annoyance/frustration with the different sizes. I didn’t know the metal ones were like that as I also have metal and ergonomic hooks. I will say though I crochet differently with both tension wise, which I find annoying, but my hands just hold them both slightly different so tension comes out different. I don’t have the patience for big projects anymore so probably no blankets in my future 😏. Had to laugh about your dog disturbing you, mine is the same, even when I am trying to count out stitches. Hope you finish Andrew’s blanket soon, will look great. Snookums 😊
I have noticed the same aggravating thing when I've worked on a project and then attempted to upgrade my hook. However, it didn't occur to me to measure that part particularly as I thought it had more to do with the actual hook itself. This is so interesting and I so appreciate you addressing this...
Thank you for sharing this. I, too, have had this happen. Now, I stick to the same hook for each project, except I like to use one size up for the starting chain of projects that helps project from puckering
I try to use the same hook for start to finish. You could block the smaller squares to the same size as the bigger one. And yes I would be interested in your give a way. It’s nice to see another male who likes it crochet. Hope to see more of you.
Of course I’d love one from you. Just found your channel and subscribed. Thanks for sharing about the size of crochet needles from different companies and not being the same when you use them when you misplaced the needle you started with ! Goodness thank goodness for the clover ones and I have a size E that I just use for my grandchildren’s slippers that I make sure I don’t misplace
I’m brand new to crochet. I’ve made 2 blankets and they haven’t turned out the way I thought they would. My stitches were WAY tighter! So much so, I even tried a different size hook. Now I get it! It’s my hook! You’re so smart! This is VERY useful info! Thanks so much!
Great that you are bringing this up because as a long timer crocheter I even don’t think about it anymore; it becomes a habit, I always make a sample to figure out what hook works best for my choice of yarn and project then I keep it for this project… 😊 love the clover hooks
You nailed it. I wish you did this video 18 months ago. I struggle with gauge swatches. Felt awful about my ability. Have a cheap starter set. One day measured my hooks. Small hooks were fine but larger were just like your example-undersized! Appreciate you for shedding light on this topic.
I am a knitter as well as a crocheter and I have found that I get different gauges with the same sizes in different manufacturers of needles. i.e I usually use Addi needles but my gauge is different with Chiaogoo brand. The Chiaogoo needles have a much longer taper than the Addis and as, like you, my stitches are rather tight the taper of the Chiaogoo brand distort my usual stitch. So I can see how the throat diameters of your hooks makes a difference for you even if the size is technically the same. Even the 'clench' of your hand may be different between hook manufacturers. Glad you found out so early in this project.
This was so helpful! Thank you for exposing this scandal and I will be very careful in my future purchases. Had this happen, too, but didn’t realize it was probably this very issue!
Thank you for bringing this up! I discovered the very same thing a few years back but I believe it needs to be brought up quite frequently. I appreciate your attention detail.
I have noticed this too. But I think it has to do with the feel also. Because I’ve noticed depending on the hook and the feel of it, my tension changes. I enjoy your videos. Thank you for the info on hooks 🙂
Great informative video..I always stick to the same hook in my projects. I tried once to see what would happen if I changed hooks, same size different brands, and there was a big difference. That is so weird, all hook sizes should be the same stitch size, but I guess, different manufacturers create their own style. Thanks for sharing
OMG I'm now measuring all my hooks, and I'm even comparing the tape measure millimeters to the 2 knit and crochet gauges I have from back in the day. Jeez Loueeze where are the standards?? I guess I'll check my knitting needles while I'm at it. Good thing nothing I produce requires exactness. I really enjoyed this video!
Hello there, I ran across your channel a while ago, I absolutely LOVE watching your videos. As far as the hooks 🪝 I would LOVE LOVE LOVE to have some clover hooks. I have been wanting to switch over for a long time. Now that u say what u do about them I NEED to switch over. As far as the hooks. That space in the middle of the metal hooks is where you would tighten your slip knot onto that flat spot because that is what you measure your tension by. Also look up tension regulator I made a bunch for myself and I sell a ton of them. Great, GENIOUS idea someone made. Lol. Please put me in the drawing for the hook. I would LOVE to have one. I have had my channel for a while now and I am just getting ready to start doing tutorials because I guess a lot of people like to look and watch someone do a pattern. Love your channel.
I love my Clover Amour hooks so much, I’ve bought 2 sets of the tiny ones, midrange ones, several extra F, G, H, and Is and two of each of the large sizes. Love them!!
This was very interesting. Scandalous! I still have my mom‘s metal crochet hooks made of aluminum and steel and I use these frequently. I enjoy the slipperiness. But I splurged on some Furls crochet hooks and I am enjoying them immensely because of the feel in your hand and the lovely colors. I’m working on the splendid serendipity blanket from the loopy stitch with a Furls G+ rainbow color hook. It is such a joy. I would highly recommend Furls.
I definitely need to pick up a Furls hook or two. Oooh I'll have to measure that one too and see. I'm sure the better quality brands are accurate. But when beginners don't want to invest a lot of money in the beginning, they should at least not have to worry that the labeled crochet hook sizes are totally inaccurate!
Thanks for sharing this! I didn't realize that the sizing of some brands may not be accurate. I've recently tried Clover Amour and was pleasantly surprised at the difference they make. Especially with splitty yarns. I love the color combination on your granny squares.
I’ve always wanted to try the Clover Amour hooks, just hadn’t gotten around to ordering them because I just have so many hooks already! lol But maybe I ought to. I lost a hook while working on a granny square cardigan & I’m afraid of having to undo all the squares I’ve made so far-I was soooo close to being done!!! I have less than 20 squares left out of… I’ve forgotten. A lot, though! But I’m also moving soon & hoping the hook shows up as I’m cleaning & packing. At any rate, I might just order the missing hook in Clover Amour if I need to. (Plus an extra, just in case? 🤔) I just stumbled upon your channel & it seems like you’ve found yourself a lovely little community here :)
Hi I am a new subscriber. I have been crocheting for about 40 years., since I was about 15. I know different brands of hooks are different. Just like jeans! Whatever you are comfortable using is great! Just don't switch mid project! As you have learned lol. U.S. sizes are different than European. Also stitches are different. Our double crochet is a single in England! Watch your pattern!
I am so glad to see people talking about this, was debating making my own video on this when I found this one and your channel! You've got a new subscriber in me today, cheers and much appreciation for you! -S.
I learned to crochet with the metal hooks. When I found the Clover hooks…that was it. Now I don’t crochet with anything else. I love them….especially since I have carpal tunnel they have really helped that. Thank you for breaking down the hook sizes…makes sense now. I love how you put together the colors on your granny squares.💝🧶
I like Susan Bates hooks. I use the same hook for the entire project. I don't have problems with hook sizes changing because I use 1 brand. Works for me.
I just saw you for the first time, and subscribed 😊 Thank you for telling us about the size differences. I never noticed it before 😮 I would love to try your better hook 😊 Looking forward to watch all of your videos ❤
Just found your channel! I've been crocheting for almost 30 years now and I've learned along the years not to switch hooks in between projects. It's not just that different brands may have different sized hooks, but the material that your hooks are made from (metal, plastic, bamboo, wood, etc) can also affect your gauge. A tip I found is to attach tags to my project with the specifications of the hook that I used. I saw someone using a bread tie for this, it's really helpful.
Just like in knitting, you can get a difference from different materials how and in what needles and hooks are constructed. Wood, steel, and aluminum all reacted differently to yarn used. It is always stated to not change your hook or needle in a project! The tips are the same, the shafts are different. Like many of us, lesson learned! Happy hooking. The Clover are my latest favorites.
I just found your channel. I never thought about measuring my hooks before, but I'm going to now. I think they mismarked the metal hook. Thank you for the information. Have a Yarntastic beautiful day 🧶💖🐸
Wow, kudos to you measuring your hooks. How interesting, I would have never thought to do that. I usually stick to one hook per project. Have to agree that it is worth the money to get a good brand. My personal favourite is Tulip Etimo, but have recently purchased a 4mm Clover after reading great reviews. Guess what I am going to do now? Measure my hooks!! 😊 Thank you for your great videos!!
Interesting find! Never really thought about each brand being different..... will be trying to stick to same hook throughout each project from now on, for sure. Thank you for pointing this out. Definitely interested in a hook.
Chocolate brown! I upgraded to Clover. I have Bates, Boye, many pretty furls, wooden furls and have a Nelson wood on order as well as Tulip set. I bought a cheap set for its pretty blue delft like design on the handles. They are pretty but snag. I like the clover and furls. Tulip? I don't know yet but I think I am going to like them too. I never switched mid project. I am going to make my grandsondog a granny blanket. I chose that kind cuz I want to practice putting the squares together! My daughter told me that dogs don't see color lol! Guess color won't matter then!!! Kudos to you for answering comments! ♥️♥️♥️
I’ve thought of another “scandal,” or just a quirk of my own: when starting a new row or a new round, should we generally work into: 1. the front, 2. the back, or 3. both the front and back of the stitch. Sometimes it is specified, but usually it isn’t. AND, since most of us learned from Grandma or Auntie, did we just learn, “… the way we’ve ALWAYS done it,” or what? Since watching video instructions, I’ve done stitches around the front column, around the back of the column, into a previous stitch, into the chain three space, or into the row below, because the instructor tells us to, and we see it on the video. I finally feel comfortable enough to ask this basic beginner question here. Thank you in advance to all who answer.
I also work into both loops unless otherwise stated. The designer will state it. If its an antique pattern (say 1920s and older), you have to look at the given picture, other people's projects, or whatever makes the best fabric and the best finished object.
Hi Nick, I live in Queensland Australia and I have tried just about every brand of crochet hooks over my 50 years of crocheting and I always come back to Clover Amore you just can’t bet them.When I need to do a gauge sample I always meet gauge with Clover Amore and I am always miss place them and buy more I eventually find them in various projects,I have people commenting on my works as they give me beautiful tension.I have been using them since 2018 . I enjoy your podcasts many cheers from Australia
While I haven’t been crocheting for 50 plus nor have a tried most brands. I have had Boye, knit pro aluminium, clover soft touch, I recently purchased knit pro symphony crochet hook and a Tunisian crochet hook to try. So far my favourite is the clover soft touch. I’m working on building my collection of them. My old hooks now live at school ready to give the gift of crochet to any student who wants to learn as many see me knit or crochet during breaks.
Thanks for taking the time to inform me about crochet hooks. I use Susan Bates metal hooks and never realized the difference as I do not have a mixture of hooks. I usually do not crochet anything where the size matters.
I love my Clovers! But I've never measured my hooks either 😊 I have heard to never switch hooks in the middle of a project because of possible size issues but never imagined that big of a difference. I love your squares too, those colors are really pretty!! Great job! ❤️
THANK YOU! I KNEW I WASNT NUTTS!! Just with my naked eyes When I would get different hooks I noticed that the diameter of I guess what you would call the neck part after the hook piece is fatter on some hooks like in diameter around than others.And since that's where your yarn falls..once you put the actual hook part through ,you tighten your yarn. So theres gonna be a bigger or smaller gauge. on the same size hooks from different brands that neck area where the yarn rests Is skinnier or fattter In circumference or diameter, whatever you say, so I always knew that would cause a discrepancy in projects.Because that's where your yarn falls after you put the book through and where the actua yarn sits that creates the loops. So that's always gonna cause size problems. And since I'm not someone that religiously uses only one hook or 1 brand of hook its caused problems for me over the years. Thank you.Everybody has told me I was crazy. So you're not the only one that this drives crazy it drive me crazy too. Thank you, thank you. Ypu just proved my point I've been saying this for years.Thank you.Thank you for that piece of mind😂😂😂❤❤❤. Now i'm going to go back to all those people that said I was nuts and say I told you so!!! and make them watch your video. 😂 Not even kidding. ❤❤❤
Unfortunately even the name brand are inconsistent within thier own brand. Glad you learned this lesson and measured and explained it! Ill share your vid on the fb Crochet Tutorial for Beginners
Not all crochet hooks are created the same. I tell every new person I can to start and end the project with the same hook because even if the hook size is correct, it may have a different handle which effects the way you hold it and can also effect tension. There are even differences in tension from day to day. For example if I am stressed my tension seems to be tighter than on days I'm relaxed. Or when I am starting a new project, my tension always changes after a few rows, which is why you should always make gauge swatches bigger than you normally would and measure in the center rather than on the edges. That said, I really enjoyed this video! A lot of new people out there just learning and won't know this information! Much love and keep going! You're doing great!!! ❤
You could make a cushion cover with the small ones to match your larger squares. I was taught by my late Mother in Law to always use the same hook through out your project. She taught me to crochet over forty years ago! Wow! I'm a natural left handed crocheter, but I knit right handed! I learned to knit at a girl's group when I was about seven, so a couple of years or so ago!😂😂 Happy Crafting xxJane 🐑🌼
I happened upon your video. I'm glad i did! I've often wondered about how accurate sizing is on hooks but never investigated. Typically, i use the same hokk from start to finish, and it's not been an issue. I have found that some yarns are easier to work with different types of hooks. Mwtal vs wood/bamboo vs resin vs plastic composite. Thanks for your investigation! ❤ BTW, I subscribed 😊
I have not tried the Clover hooks yet. Love your channel as it covers both of my hobbies gardening and crochet. I just started back crocheting after a 15 year break.
SUCCESS, IT WORKED!!??!! I got my crochet set today and you'll never guess, my 10mm is actually a 7.5mm, amazing, thank you!!! I was really hoping it would turn out like this, so was so happy to also have an accidentally on purpose outcome as well!! Straight away I had a feeling it had worked, as I've been using a regular sized 10mm to make a scarf recently, so as soon as I sorted through the hooks to find the 10mm one I could see right away that it looked narrower, even before I measured it! What's even more amusing is the page I looked at, if you scroll down near the bottom it actually shows a picture of a digital measuring machine that they're using to show their hooks against another brand to demonstrate that for example, if it says 9mm on their hook it is "truly" a 9mm, and then showing side by side another brand and then measuring that, and it showing for example that it's a 9mm but measures as am 8mm, so that was really hilarious to me! It suggests that enough people complained perhaps, and so they thought they should show a photo to prove that their hooks are the size they're meant to be, but in actual fact rather than correcting this (much to my relief!) the sizing is still off anyway!?! Normally an error like this you'd want to return the product, but in this case it's actually the outcome I was hoping for, as you know, so I had to tell you! Just a word of warning though to anyone thinking of ordering this set and wanting an actual 10mm hook, as that's not what they're likely to get, but if anyone else is having trouble getting their hands on a 7.5mm, jump on it!! :)
Hi Nick! I can so relate to the hook issue. I did not buy those fancy “Amore” hooks though. I found some generic ones on the Amazonian, 8 sizes from 2.5mm to 6.0 and I paid just over $11.00. I will never use a metal hook after using this flat hook. It crochets so much better and stays on the hook better! I always knew there was a difference in the feel but thought I was just overdramatizing the issue with my HUZZband, so that he would buy me the “other kind” of hooks that I wanted because I only had a few sizes. I ended up buying them without discussing it with him first. Your video helped him understand that I WAS’NT over dramatic about the needles and you validated what I told him about how the end result was smoother, softer and just better somehow. I appreciate you!! Thank you so much!-Dodi
The same exact thing has happened to me, I was thinking maybe it was my crochet tension on that day (if I was stressed out about something or not lol) I never thought to check out the hooks itself. I’m obsessed with Furls hooks omg they are beautiful and are always coming out with something more beautiful!!
I've been doing nothing but granny squares nonstop since November, so my tension is pretty consistent. I was pretty convinced it wasn't a "me" issue in this case!!
Thank you for the video. I had a whole bunch of different types and sizes. I was separating them to give a set to my daughter and noticed the difference. Then we were starting blankets and needed to buy one for her - it wasn’t the same size as mine! It’s still a mystery why though 🤨
I have several sets and one-off crochet hooks. Some yarn seems to "stick" to hooks, especially plastic ones, even if they are good quality (Prym are great, I'm in the UK so I don't know what availability is like in the USA). That type of yarn is better with metal hooks. Some patterns are better with hooks without handles, if you need to gather several loops at once such as with a bobble stitch, more space is easier. I've also found super chunky yarn easier on metal hooks without a handle, that doesn't hurt my hand so much. As I'm getting old now (😢😢), I have to be careful about how much I do so that I can avoid painful hands. This seems to help: Change projects, yarn weight and hook size even during the same day, stops my hands for getting stiff and using the different types of hooks you've shown really helps that 😊
Hi nick I been crocheting for many years and never noticed that before thank you for letting everyone know. And I do not own a 10mm hook the biggest one I used is a 8mm. Thank you for the video take care have a wonderful evening or day😊
Great video! I am a nurse and lover of the Clover crochet hooks. I recently bought a second set of the smaller metal Clover hooks and I noticed the metal used on them was different than my older hooks. I bought the set off Amazon and I think they may be a knockoff. What the heck?? Anyway, I will be ordering from the Clover website from now on. Would love the hook in your give away😌
I started picking up crochet again this year. I noticed a difference immediately with my susan bates hook and my clover. But yeah, NOBODY talks about it so thank you for making this video! I wasn't going crazy hahah
I love your channel ❤️ I'd love to enter your giveaway, and yes, I have noticed hooks can be different...but seeing your project, that is pretty extreme. I'd say go with the Clover hooks...they are a trusted brand. I'm not sure about the wierd Amazon hooks. You are making a very beautiful project and you want it to be stable the squares to match. I love what your making!!! Be sure to video when you join the squares I'd love to see that, and your border!!! The colors are beautiful 😍 Great job and great video!!😊😊
😮 that has absolutely blown my mind!!! I've been slower collecting clover amour crochet hooks for approximately a year now. I really enjoy them and so much easier with my arthritis. Great video ❤
The cheaper hooks can and are not the right sizes in the larger hooks. I love Susan Bates hooks, most of mine are over 50 + years old, made in America. My daughter wanted her own new hooks so I bought her sets of Susan Bates hooks, they are now made in Mexico, some of the sizes are wrong. She resized them and uses them, as she also loves Bates hooks. Very disappointing that companies do not have quality control. when I teach crochet to new crochet I tell them to not waste their money on the packs of cheap hooks. I keep several brands of hooks so my students can use different hooks to see which ones the like. I start all my students on a #6 or J hook. Sorry you didn't have someone to talk to about hooks before you bought yours. Love the colors of your larger granny squares, and I like your layout plane. I do have the small Clover hooks they were a gift and I have used them. Never bought the larger ones. Happy I found your channel, I'll share it on Facebook so others can see the differences in hook sizes. Good information.
I have been wondering if I could change from a wooden hook to my favorite metal - I guess I should wait to use the metal hook until I start a new project...
I absolutely love the Clover Amour hooks, I have all the little ones, and 2 sets of the others up to a size 6. I then bought a 7mm from them. I would love the bigger hook because I find that other hooks tend to be much to long for my the palm of my hand! I have also found that some yarns really do just glide better on certain kinds of hooks, metal, plastic, ect.
And that is why I dedicate one hook to one project and see it through… I take notes as to what hook goes with what project.
definitely a best practice!
Great practice and one I will adopt. Thanks!
It would be nice to think that if you did want to change to another, more comfortable, hook especially for a large project that you could do that without disappointment... in a perfect world I suppose.
Same. When the hook disappears, I go crazy. 😂
Yes, me too! I always measure my hooks. TFS! Austin TX USA
I am almost 70 years old and I learned to crochet when I was around 7 or 8 from my grandmother. I have her hooks and still use them to this day. They have letters on them, no numbers. They are all either Boye or Susan Bates. I have never found a need to replace them as they still work! LOL. I was taught to use the same hook for the whole project unless told to change it within the pattern. I do that. I think that was probably the best advice I ever got about crochet! I have made and sold many afghans and other projects in all these years. Enjoy your crochet journey and dont stress about the small stuff. And it is ALL small stuff especially hook sizes. just do as grandma said and use the same hook throughout the project! When getting new hooks I recommend making a swatch with the yarn you plan to use and measure it to determine the size you want your project to be. Enjoy!
I did not receive any advice but I also use the same hook for a project, for me that make totally sens, unless you loose your hook their is no need to change it.
to be honest I was wondering why making twenty minutes video to talk about "hook scandal"... I was not brave enough to watch till the end 🙈
The letters are the traditional US sizes. Most places seem to use millimetre sizes now.
I'm also nearly 70, learnt to knit & crochet at age 4/5 & am using the same old needles & hooks mum used. I have a gauge to measure them & they are all correct.
@@rosertaylor6139 I would be using my first set of Susan Bates hooks but I had children then grand children and now nanny a toddler and they all have gotten ahold of my hooks and lost them. The last one is lying under my charges back porch as it fell through the floor boards when she was teasing me and dropped just exactly right.
I’m 71 and also learned to crochet at about 8 years old. ❤
Can’t imagine sitting down without a crochet hook in my hand and a project in my lap 😊💜💜
There are little cards with holes that allow you to insert your hook to verify your hook size. It’s handy for older hooks too where the number may have worn off through use. This tool is available at Michael’s, Joann’s etc. worth the couple of dollars to keep in your kit.
I had my husband 3D print one for me!
I never realized that crochet hook sizes vary by manufacturer! Thank you for this public service announcement! I just upgraded to a new set of Clover crochet hooks, also. This is the first video I have watched from you. It caught my eye because of your funny title. I have never seen the words “crochet” and “scandal” together in the same sentence before! You made me laugh! But I am going to now go measure all my crochet hooks! I have many from my grandmother. But could use a new Size 10… 😊
Love your narrative and your obsession for perfection. I will admit I am the same way. I subscribed immediately and look forward to your next video! 😊
But that’s for knitting needles,right?
@@monicavazquez3744 you can get ones where you slide the hook in from the side instead of putting it through a hole
@@monicavazquez3744 so long as the head can fit through the hole easily (hint, Boye needles cannot), the gauge will work. Some even have the letter size for hooks listed on them along with the mm size. You want to measure the shaft of the hook past where the taper is coming from the head, but before the wide part in the middle or the handle on those that have them.
IM SO GLAD SOMEONE FINALLY NOTICED THIS. I thought i was going insane
You're not!! Or maybe we're both insane?!?!
@@URBANFARMBOYS lol maybe 😂
I'm so happy to have found your channel and rant today. I'm hooked on clover! ❤ The raised label on the "grip" part of the metal hooks were uncomfortable. Blister before end of an afghan, yikes! Thank you for saying it out loud.
My first clover hook arrived this morning and I realised the second I picked it up that it's a different size from my other unbranded hook that should be the same size. I had been thinking that my project was looser than the images of the example. I'll need to keep on with my other hook until my next project. I've only just discovered your channel and my sense of humour has found your video a real treat. Can't wait to watch more. Lots of love from blustery Scotland. X
Same!! No one believed me
Yup! Been harping on this for years. It's not just Clover/generic. It's all of them. First there's the letter b.s. then I noticed that I was still having different results with different hooks even when I used the metric measurements. Boye, bates, all of them. Get a hook gauge and check every hook before you use it!
Ugh now I know!!
Good to know.
Definitely all of them! Ive been ensure to yake notes on the exact hook im using as they all are different
I was taught never change your hook in the middle of a project, also stick with the same brand once you find out what you like for consistency . It could be the way you hold the new hook vs the old hooks. I prefer all metal for that reason, someone gave me one of those ergonomic hooks and it made my stitches looser because my grip was different. I’m glad you found what you like.
Yep, now I know! Thanks for commenting!
I also notice a huge difference in the way I crochet if the hook is in line or tapered, never mind if I am practicing Tunisian crochet or even mosaic crochet.
I both knit and crochet. For crochet hooks I like Boyle for the most part but it has to have a long shaft and sharp tongue. Lessons from the knitting world: 1) tool materials matter: wood for slick yarn and metal for sticky yarn; 2) millimeters matter: size 6 knitting needles come in both 4.0 mm and 4.25 mm; 3) the best measurement gauge for both needles and hooks is one that has u shaped openings to slide the hook/needle into. That way if the shaft is oval, square, or triangular- you can still measure it.
I too learned that it’s best to use the same “hook” through out the project. Then after looking at a few crochet videos, decided to invest in the Clover Amour hooks, they are excellent, don’t split the yarn and feel great in your hand. Love your videos.
Thanks for watching! I love the Clover Amour too!
Cheaper hooks and cheaper tape measures too! I have about 6 tape measures I've collected over the years and 1 of them was a bit off, so I held it up against my husband's FATMAX and it was measuring 8mm as 10mm. I checked all my tape measures then, and only the one was out but it's definitely worth checking them if you get one in a pack with other things 😂
Happy crocheting ❤️😁
I have two tables set in an L shape thatvi work at. Each table I taped a 9 in measuring tape to it. Or I thought I did until two halves of my project were the wrong size. The older one was accurate, but the newer one was .8in for every 1in. that it should have been.
This happened to me with Boye knitting needles. My husband measured each needle with his calipers and all of the Boye needles were not accurate. Every other knitting needle of other brands were accurate, including some very inexpensive bamboo needles. It really upset me as well, but also explains why sweaters didn’t turn out to the same size. Scandalous? Most definitely!!!
I adore my Tulip Etimo hooks so they are the only ones that I use. I had to save up for them, so I appreciate that they are rather spendy. The inconsistencies that you are addressing are concerning. Thank you for posting this.
I also have a set of tulip hooks. Yes they where pricey but money well spent. I was taught that whatever size you start with you finish with that size. I have been using these hooks for 10 plus years. I tried using a regular boye hooks and I could not crochet with them. I agree with you that it is concerning. Especially when working on a project and finding the sizing is way off after putting all that time in.
I, too, love my Tulip Etimo hooks❣️ I do much better with the smaller length of the working end of the hook❤️
I love my set of pink Tulip etimo hooks. Pricey but worth it, although it did work out better buying the set which came in a nice case.
I have the brown/gold tulips and they’re my favourite hooks. Saving up for some pink ones. We don’t get discounts that the US crocheters get, i have seen some folk get hooks at half price with coupons. Very jealous 😢
@@mythicalmermaid5757I wish I could find a coupon for them! I'm here in the US and can't find the tulip rose set for less than $120 USD
That's why I never switch to another hook on a project. I use the same one the whole way through. And will agree the Clovers are great!
Just vintage crochet Corinna has talked about this issue not too long ago. She showed us how there is a measuring device. Thank you for sharing.
I've been crocheting for over 40 years. There are several things that affect the outcome of a project. It is not just the size of the hook. The yarn you use is also important. The type of head on the hook is also important. An in-line head, as with Bates hooks will give different results from the results you get with hook heads that are not in-line, such as with Boye hooks. The tension you use is actually more important than the hook size. Everyone's tension is different. That is why it is always wise to do a test swatch before you begin a project, especially if you are making something where the size of the finished project is important, such as with fitted garments. Also, with time and experience, you will begin to know your hooks and what results you can expect with whichever size hook you use. If you buy any new hooks, it is probably a good idea to work some practice pieces to get used to the hook and see what kind of results you get with it with different yarns.
Obsessed with your granny squares!!!! And yes different brand hooks are not the same. It’s a bummer for sure.
Awww thank you so much!
I love Granny Squares...Never made one that Big, and now am going to make one...Thanks..
I AM SO GLAD someone finally did a video about this. I am not crazy. Thank you.
I never change crochet hooks during a project, it can change your tension :) and if you change material that can affect it too :) You could make one more of the smaller squares and then make a front for a pillow to go with your blanket :)
Excellent idea !
“🎶ONE OF THESE THINGS IS NOT LIKE THE OTHERS🎶” popped into my head as I was listening to you. Probably play in my head all day!😂I learnt the hard way too that the sizing of different brands of crochet hooks are not all the same!!😳I started with the cheap metal ones too but gradually switching over to Clovers. Love them and easier on my hands!! I’m waiting to buy a 7mm and a 10mm. I subscribed while watching your very first video!👏🤗🌷
Thank you for subscribing! One of these things is DEFINITELY not like the other!!
I am a total crochet newbie and really appreciate this valuable information before I make this mistake. I was searching UA-cam videos for recommendations on what hooks to buy. I will buy these Clover hooks one at a time and begin my crocheting journey with quality hooks. Thanks for sharing!
Start with a G or H hook. I preferred an H when I started, but many amigurami (stuffed animal) kits have Gs. Practice every stitch first, with inexpensive light yarn. Make a small square of just single crochet (sc) stitches, then another of half-double crochet (hdc), then double crochet (dc) and triple crochet (tc). Do it again until you're comfortable, then start a simple project.
Also note that triple/treble are interchangeable... and UK stitch sizes are different from U.S. sizes:
UK double = U.S. single
UK half treble = U.S. half double
UK treble = U.S. double
UK double treble = U.S. treble
UK triple treble (tr-tr)= U.S. double treble (dtr)
UK miss-stitch (ms) = U.S. skip-stitch (sk-st)
UK yarn-over (YOH) = U.S. yarn-over (YO)
Chain stitch (ch) and slip-stitch (sl-st) are the same in both. Most crocheters will mention that in the beginning of their pattern/video though. Good luck!
Thank you so much for all the valuable information! I'm learning to knit now and think I'm going to learn to crochet later. Not too later...I'm getting older fast. Lol. Thanks again. Will got get those hooks soon.
Hi lovely from New Zealand.
I am so glad you addressed this big problem. I am an avid crocheter and I find this issue very frustrating. It is also the same in wool.
Here in New Zealand and also in Australia the yarn is just as confusing. It should be the same universally. EG yarn we have 3 ply, 4 ply and 5 ply which is basically baby wool. Then we go to 8 ply it is Double knit in other countries, and then 12 ply. Then you have worsted weight. Could someone explain that for this 66 year old.
Love your work 🥰
@christinetracey8090 I feel the exact same way you do! I hate it when I don't understand something, even when someone patiently explains it. Just doesn't make sense to this 72 y/o in sunny Arizona!😉
I live in South Australia so can relate to the ply issue compared to watching people from the states that have different measurements/ways to tell thickness of yarn but am slowly learning!
I know that the weight #4 in the US is equal to our 10 ply, don't forget that one! To make it even more confusing not all 8 ply is the same, some 8 ply definitely seems thicker than others! My sister taught me that the "ply" really refers to how many strands of yarn are wound together, so depending on the thickness of each strand you can end up with all different thicknesses of yarn! Sorry if I've made it even trickier for you now! Crystal from Bag-O-Day explains it better than I can! :)
Thank you for this information. A few months ago I began crocheting after buying a metal hook kit on Amazon. I trusted their sizes 0.6 to 6.5 . I've been thinking about trying a larger hook. Both of my wrists have been broken (different falls). One was a clean break, but my right one is in 8 pieces that couldn't be surgically repaired. Sometimes i have to take crochet breaks, even when I wear a wrist brace. Perhaps a larger hook would be better for me. If you haven't given away your extra hook, I'd appreciate it...And, Thank You for your work as a Nurse Practitioner. An NP took excellent care of my late father and years earlier when I had medical issues. One of the worst events was an allergic reaction to an Asthma drug, Singulair, that sent me to a transplant unit. Prior to core biopsipies, I discovered 2 bottles of the wrong anesthesia were delivered to my room - I'm allergic to sulfite preserved drugs. When I was transferred to ICU, I told my ICU nurse about that allergy. She found that the third bottle was also wrong. She personally returned the anesthesia and ensured the pharmacy hand filled the prescription properly. I survived the biopsies and treatment protocols enabled me to recover without a transplant. A few years earlier a sulfited anesthetic was injected during a tooth extraction, even though I notified the practice in writing and verbally about my sulfite sensitivity. That caused anaphylaxis and temporary paralysis with life long side effects. Everyone in the nursing field has to be precise.You're dealing with people's lives. Your attention to detail is appreciated when applied to creative endeavors when precision affects that work. I just discovered your channel and this is the first video I've seen. Stay well.
Thanks so much!! What a huge difference!!! Yes I 'm interested in the extra.
Only just found you! Or rather the UA-cam algorithm did 😅 This is new to me. Been crocheting over 50years and never ever suspected this. Just subscribed and id like to be put forward for a free Clover hook please 😊❤ like to try one as ive been using same ones all these years as they were my mum's 😮 Best wishes Jan Manchester UK 🇬🇧 xx
The clover amor are my favorite hooks they have been for years. I can honestly tell you I have never measured any of my hooks and you have a very valid point with the metal hooks.. thank you for all the information about the hooks. I would be upset too. If I had already started a project again thank you for the information. See you in your next video. Hugs from Chicago.
Thanks for watching!
Thanks for the information, always good to learn new things. Your examples and explanation were easy to grasp. I also appreciated the nurse /accuracy in measures. I was in that field for over 40 years. Keep up the great videos.
I have been crocheting for 70 years and have never measured my crochet hooks but I did convert to Clover Amour hooks last year and love them. There was a scandal at that time about some counterfeit Clover Amours so I made sure mine were genuine but I haven’t heard about the sizes of some hooks being inaccurate. After seeing this, though, I compared a hook that came with a cheap amigurumi kit with my Clover Amour of the same marked size and it was significantly different. Thanks so much for this video. Not something I would have ever thought of doing.
I found this too and had to tear out my whole project. It is so disappointing to see that such a simple standard can’t be met. So, now we measure. Makes you wonder what else there is to discover in the tools of crochet. Found a great book on yarns and the different types and which ones to consider using for which projects. So many different types with different characteristics. The Knitters Book of Yarn by Grablewski. It’s for crocheters too. Really cool info on yarns. Linda
I bought some cheap aluminum hooks on amazon that looked like the clover amour....when I compared one size H ....it was bigger on the actual Hook end part than the amour By about a half size!!!! I am not using the cheapies any more. I did splurge and bought a FURLS silver hook and fell in love with it because of the weight. I am 75 and have been crocheting since I Was about 8 or 9 and always used my mom's hooks which were Boyles or Bates. I don't like the plastic hooks because they are too light. Your video really opened my eyes to go check some of mom's mismatched hooks. BTW I also have a set of hooks that were my grandma's who crocheted doillies. Thanks for the heads-up.😊
Always nice to see new videos. Thank you for drawing attention to the size issue with the crochet hooks.
Thanks for watching!
You crochet beautifully. Your granny squares are gorgeous. Clover Amour hooks are my favorite. I also have the cheaper hooks. They don’t even compare but I’ve never measure them. I’m glad I found your channel.
I subscribed.
That was so eye opening and I'm so glad you told us about this! I've never had a reason not to trust a crochet hook sizing before but am always grateful to learn about anything like this before you've spent hours and hours on a project, so am so glad I watched this.
Just recently subscribed having been drawn to you from the hexagon cardigan video where I gave some suggestions of other channels to get some guidance from, so am hoping that helped.
I'm not that educated on the different brands of crochet hooks available and haven't tried the Clover brand but they look lovely! Your spare hook would be greatly appreciated if you felt like posting it to Australia to find a new home for it! 😊😃
After every project. From hats to blankets I wash them in Gain laundry detergent and Downey fabric softener when I finish. I put them in the dryer with at least 2 bounce dryer sheets. They come out so soft and smelling wonderful. When I give them as gifts everyone is amazed at how wonderfully soft they are and how wonderful they smell.
I have Prym hooks plus many cheap, generic ones. I never measured them and I take your word on the cheap ones being mis-labeled. I bought a set of Clover Amor Tunisian crochet interchangeable hooks to learn that craft. Having reputable tools makes the job easier and as you say a better experience.
Agreed
Just returned 3 sets of hooks to Amazon for the same reason and ended up splurging on the We Crochet Dot hooks because I love Clover but the handles are too short but the shaft is amazing.
Love your squaresize and that yarn. I am currently making 200 pumpkins for my son's fall barn wedding.
I always used one hook for every project. Things like the clover and "thicker" handle crochet hooks. You hold them differently regardless. The tension and consideration will come with different results as well as the head of the hook. They have different shapes.
I've never done this but I personally interchange between all hook types. I have so many I try to keep them together with that specific project.
You have created beautiful granny squares!!!!! ❤
Loved your video. I finally changed my hooks after watching another crochet person on UA-cam. I have Clover Hooks and Tulip. What I was having issues with was the yarn splitting. Afterward, I changed brands to Clover Hooks and found I no longer had this issue. I ended up trying Tulip brand and fell in love with these hooks also. Never thought to measure my hooks. Just took the companies word for it. Love your color choices. ❤
I have all different brands of crochet hooks and my favorite, by far is CLOVER!!!...I think what you have discovered is quite interesting!..I have wondered at times if they were off...I just never took the time to measure them... Thank you for sharing!... Now I know!
Hi Nick, I think the moral or lesson of the crochet hook sizing is to use the same exact hook for the entire project. I try to do that when I'm crocheting. I also use stitch markers with a hook size letter bead so when I put the project away I can use the correct size hook. Happy crocheting!
Agreed. And I do that with all my projects. Except I was excited to use my comfy new hooks and the 6mm transition worked just fine, so I was just more shocked at how wrong the 10mm hook difference was!
Hey Nick, enjoyed your clip and understand the annoyance/frustration with the different sizes. I didn’t know the metal ones were like that as I also have metal and ergonomic hooks. I will say though I crochet differently with both tension wise, which I find annoying, but my hands just hold them both slightly different so tension comes out different. I don’t have the patience for big projects anymore so probably no blankets in my future 😏. Had to laugh about your dog disturbing you, mine is the same, even when I am trying to count out stitches. Hope you finish Andrew’s blanket soon, will look great. Snookums 😊
I have noticed the same aggravating thing when I've worked on a project and then attempted to upgrade my hook. However, it didn't occur to me to measure that part particularly as I thought it had more to do with the actual hook itself. This is so interesting and I so appreciate you addressing this...
Thank you!! Random topic but when suddenly my project is totally wrong, it's time to investigate and share my findings!
It may be a matter of how you hold your different handled hooks? I have found it does alter my stitches.
Thank you for sharing this. I, too, have had this happen. Now, I stick to the same hook for each project, except I like to use one size up for the starting chain of projects that helps project from puckering
I try to use the same hook for start to finish.
You could block the smaller squares to the same size as the bigger one.
And yes I would be interested in your give a way.
It’s nice to see another male who likes it crochet. Hope to see more of you.
Of course I’d love one from you. Just found your channel and subscribed. Thanks for sharing about the size of crochet needles from different companies and not being the same when you use them when you misplaced the needle you started with ! Goodness thank goodness for the clover ones and I have a size E that I just use for my grandchildren’s slippers that I make sure I don’t misplace
I’m brand new to crochet. I’ve made 2 blankets and they haven’t turned out the way I thought they would. My stitches were WAY tighter! So much so, I even tried a different size hook. Now I get it! It’s my hook! You’re so smart! This is VERY useful info! Thanks so much!
Glad you found it helpful!! I crochet tight too -- try using a bigger hook - that will help. And MEASURE IT FIRST!! 🙂
Great that you are bringing this up because as a long timer crocheter I even don’t think about it anymore; it becomes a habit, I always make a sample to figure out what hook works best for my choice of yarn and project then I keep it for this project… 😊 love the clover hooks
You nailed it. I wish you did this video 18 months ago. I struggle with gauge swatches. Felt awful about my ability. Have a cheap starter set. One day measured my hooks. Small hooks were fine but larger were just like your example-undersized! Appreciate you for shedding light on this topic.
I am a knitter as well as a crocheter and I have found that I get different gauges with the same sizes in different manufacturers of needles. i.e I usually use Addi needles but my gauge is different with Chiaogoo brand. The Chiaogoo needles have a much longer taper than the Addis and as, like you, my stitches are rather tight the taper of the Chiaogoo brand distort my usual stitch. So I can see how the throat diameters of your hooks makes a difference for you even if the size is technically the same. Even the 'clench' of your hand may be different between hook manufacturers. Glad you found out so early in this project.
This was so helpful! Thank you for exposing this scandal and I will be very careful in my future purchases. Had this happen, too, but didn’t realize it was probably this very issue!
Thank you for bringing this up! I discovered the very same thing a few years back but I believe it needs to be brought up quite frequently. I appreciate your attention detail.
I have noticed this too. But I think it has to do with the feel also. Because I’ve noticed depending on the hook and the feel of it, my tension changes. I enjoy your videos. Thank you for the info on hooks 🙂
Great informative video..I always stick to the same hook in my projects. I tried once to see what would happen if I changed hooks, same size different brands, and there was a big difference. That is so weird, all hook sizes should be the same stitch size, but I guess, different manufacturers create their own style. Thanks for sharing
OMG I'm now measuring all my hooks, and I'm even comparing the tape measure millimeters to the 2 knit and crochet gauges I have from back in the day. Jeez Loueeze where are the standards?? I guess I'll check my knitting needles while I'm at it. Good thing nothing I produce requires exactness. I really enjoyed this video!
Hello there, I ran across your channel a while ago, I absolutely LOVE watching your videos. As far as the hooks 🪝 I would LOVE LOVE LOVE to have some clover hooks. I have been wanting to switch over for a long time. Now that u say what u do about them I NEED to switch over. As far as the hooks. That space in the middle of the metal hooks is where you would tighten your slip knot onto that flat spot because that is what you measure your tension by. Also look up tension regulator I made a bunch for myself and I sell a ton of them. Great, GENIOUS idea someone made. Lol. Please put me in the drawing for the hook. I would LOVE to have one. I have had my channel for a while now and I am just getting ready to start doing tutorials because I guess a lot of people like to look and watch someone do a pattern. Love your channel.
I love my Clover Amour hooks so much, I’ve bought 2 sets of the tiny ones, midrange ones, several extra F, G, H, and Is and two of each of the large sizes. Love them!!
This was very interesting. Scandalous! I still have my mom‘s metal crochet hooks made of aluminum and steel and I use these frequently. I enjoy the slipperiness. But I splurged on some Furls crochet hooks and I am enjoying them immensely because of the feel in your hand and the lovely colors. I’m working on the splendid serendipity blanket from the loopy stitch with a Furls G+ rainbow color hook. It is such a joy. I would highly recommend Furls.
I definitely need to pick up a Furls hook or two. Oooh I'll have to measure that one too and see. I'm sure the better quality brands are accurate. But when beginners don't want to invest a lot of money in the beginning, they should at least not have to worry that the labeled crochet hook sizes are totally inaccurate!
Thanks for sharing this! I didn't realize that the sizing of some brands may not be accurate. I've recently tried Clover Amour and was pleasantly surprised at the difference they make. Especially with splitty yarns. I love the color combination on your granny squares.
I’ve always wanted to try the Clover Amour hooks, just hadn’t gotten around to ordering them because I just have so many hooks already! lol But maybe I ought to. I lost a hook while working on a granny square cardigan & I’m afraid of having to undo all the squares I’ve made so far-I was soooo close to being done!!! I have less than 20 squares left out of… I’ve forgotten. A lot, though! But I’m also moving soon & hoping the hook shows up as I’m cleaning & packing. At any rate, I might just order the missing hook in Clover Amour if I need to. (Plus an extra, just in case? 🤔) I just stumbled upon your channel & it seems like you’ve found yourself a lovely little community here :)
Hi I am a new subscriber. I have been crocheting for about 40 years., since I was about 15. I know different brands of hooks are different. Just like jeans! Whatever you are comfortable using is great! Just don't switch mid project! As you have learned lol. U.S. sizes are different than European. Also stitches are different. Our double crochet is a single in England! Watch your pattern!
I am so glad to see people talking about this, was debating making my own video on this when I found this one and your channel! You've got a new subscriber in me today, cheers and much appreciation for you! -S.
I learned to crochet with the metal hooks. When I found the Clover hooks…that was it. Now I don’t crochet with anything else. I love them….especially since I have carpal tunnel they have really helped that. Thank you for breaking down the hook sizes…makes sense now. I love how you put together the colors on your granny squares.💝🧶
I like Susan Bates hooks. I use the same hook for the entire project. I don't have problems with hook sizes changing because I use 1 brand. Works for me.
My first time tuning in and I love your podcast. Love the granny squares.! Thanks for the info about the hooks!
I just saw you for the first time, and subscribed 😊
Thank you for telling us about the size differences. I never noticed it before 😮
I would love to try your better hook 😊 Looking forward to watch all of your videos ❤
Just found your channel! I've been crocheting for almost 30 years now and I've learned along the years not to switch hooks in between projects. It's not just that different brands may have different sized hooks, but the material that your hooks are made from (metal, plastic, bamboo, wood, etc) can also affect your gauge. A tip I found is to attach tags to my project with the specifications of the hook that I used. I saw someone using a bread tie for this, it's really helpful.
Just like in knitting, you can get a difference from different materials how and in what needles and hooks are constructed. Wood, steel, and aluminum all reacted differently to yarn used. It is always stated to not change your hook or needle in a project! The tips are the same, the shafts are different. Like many of us, lesson learned! Happy hooking. The Clover are my latest favorites.
I just found your channel. I never thought about measuring my hooks before, but I'm going to now. I think they mismarked the metal hook. Thank you for the information. Have a Yarntastic beautiful day 🧶💖🐸
Wow, kudos to you measuring your hooks. How interesting, I would have never thought to do that. I usually stick to one hook per project. Have to agree that it is worth the money to get a good brand. My personal favourite is Tulip Etimo, but have recently purchased a 4mm Clover after reading great reviews. Guess what I am going to do now? Measure my hooks!! 😊 Thank you for your great videos!!
Interesting find! Never really thought about each brand being different..... will be trying to stick to same hook throughout each project from now on, for sure. Thank you for pointing this out. Definitely interested in a hook.
Chocolate brown! I upgraded to Clover. I have Bates, Boye, many pretty furls, wooden furls and have a Nelson wood on order as well as Tulip set. I bought a cheap set for its pretty blue delft like design on the handles. They are pretty but snag. I like the clover and furls. Tulip? I don't know yet but I think I am going to like them too. I never switched mid project. I am going to make my grandsondog a granny blanket. I chose that kind cuz I want to practice putting the squares together! My daughter told me that dogs don't see color lol! Guess color won't matter then!!! Kudos to you for answering comments! ♥️♥️♥️
I’ve thought of another “scandal,” or just a quirk of my own: when starting a new row or a new round, should we generally work into: 1. the front, 2. the back, or 3. both the front and back of the stitch. Sometimes it is specified, but usually it isn’t. AND, since most of us learned from Grandma or Auntie, did we just learn, “… the way we’ve ALWAYS done it,” or what? Since watching video instructions, I’ve done stitches around the front column, around the back of the column, into a previous stitch, into the chain three space, or into the row below, because the instructor tells us to, and we see it on the video. I finally feel comfortable enough to ask this basic beginner question here. Thank you in advance to all who answer.
Wow interesting! Hopefully somebody more knowledgeable than me can weigh in!
@@URBANFARMBOYS , soon, either we’ll both have the answer …. or we’ll have 85 answers.
Work into both loops unless otherwise stated.
@@CandysYarnCrafts , thanks!
I also work into both loops unless otherwise stated. The designer will state it. If its an antique pattern (say 1920s and older), you have to look at the given picture, other people's projects, or whatever makes the best fabric and the best finished object.
Hi Nick, I live in Queensland Australia and I have tried just about every brand of crochet hooks over my 50 years of crocheting and I always come back to Clover Amore you just can’t bet them.When I need to do a gauge sample I always meet gauge with Clover Amore and I am always miss place them and buy more I eventually find them in various projects,I have people commenting on my works as they give me beautiful tension.I have been using them since 2018 . I enjoy your podcasts many cheers from Australia
While I haven’t been crocheting for 50 plus nor have a tried most brands. I have had Boye, knit pro aluminium, clover soft touch, I recently purchased knit pro symphony crochet hook and a Tunisian crochet hook to try. So far my favourite is the clover soft touch. I’m working on building my collection of them.
My old hooks now live at school ready to give the gift of crochet to any student who wants to learn as many see me knit or crochet during breaks.
Great Detective work! Thanks for making me aware. I have a huge lot of crochet hooks. Now I'm doing my own investigating! Huge smile.
Thanks for taking the time to inform me about crochet hooks. I use Susan Bates metal hooks and never realized the difference as I do not have a mixture of hooks. I usually do not crochet anything where the size matters.
I didn't realize there was such a difference in the same size hooks from different companies! Thank you for bringing that to my attention!
I love my Clovers! But I've never measured my hooks either 😊 I have heard to never switch hooks in the middle of a project because of possible size issues but never imagined that big of a difference. I love your squares too, those colors are really pretty!! Great job! ❤️
Thank you very much!!
THANK YOU! I KNEW I WASNT NUTTS!! Just with my naked eyes When I would get different hooks I noticed that the diameter of I guess what you would call the neck part after the hook piece is fatter on some hooks like in diameter around than others.And since that's where your yarn falls..once you put the actual hook part through ,you tighten your yarn. So theres gonna be a bigger or smaller gauge. on the same size hooks from different brands that neck area where the yarn rests Is skinnier or fattter In circumference or diameter, whatever you say, so I always knew that would cause a discrepancy in projects.Because that's where your yarn falls after you put the book through and where the actua yarn sits that creates the loops. So that's always gonna cause size problems. And since I'm not someone that religiously uses only one hook or 1 brand of hook its caused problems for me over the years. Thank you.Everybody has told me I was crazy. So you're not the only one that this drives crazy it drive me crazy too. Thank you, thank you. Ypu just proved my point I've been saying this for years.Thank you.Thank you for that piece of mind😂😂😂❤❤❤. Now i'm going to go back to all those people that said I was nuts and say I told you so!!! and make them watch your video. 😂 Not even kidding. ❤❤❤
Unfortunately even the name brand are inconsistent within thier own brand. Glad you learned this lesson and measured and explained it! Ill share your vid on the fb Crochet Tutorial for Beginners
Oh thank you! That’s really helpful!
Not all crochet hooks are created the same. I tell every new person I can to start and end the project with the same hook because even if the hook size is correct, it may have a different handle which effects the way you hold it and can also effect tension. There are even differences in tension from day to day. For example if I am stressed my tension seems to be tighter than on days I'm relaxed. Or when I am starting a new project, my tension always changes after a few rows, which is why you should always make gauge swatches bigger than you normally would and measure in the center rather than on the edges. That said, I really enjoyed this video! A lot of new people out there just learning and won't know this information! Much love and keep going! You're doing great!!! ❤
It's best to keep the extra because you might misplace it, it will happen it happens to all of us. Good luck
You could make a cushion cover with the small ones to match your larger squares.
I was taught by my late Mother in Law to always use the same hook through out your project.
She taught me to crochet over forty years ago! Wow! I'm a natural left handed crocheter, but I knit right handed! I learned to knit at a girl's group when I was about seven, so a couple of years or so ago!😂😂
Happy Crafting xxJane 🐑🌼
I happened upon your video. I'm glad i did! I've often wondered about how accurate sizing is on hooks but never investigated. Typically, i use the same hokk from start to finish, and it's not been an issue. I have found that some yarns are easier to work with different types of hooks. Mwtal vs wood/bamboo vs resin vs plastic composite. Thanks for your investigation! ❤
BTW, I subscribed 😊
I have not tried the Clover hooks yet. Love your channel as it covers both of my hobbies gardening and crochet. I just started back crocheting after a 15 year break.
SUCCESS, IT WORKED!!??!! I got my crochet set today and you'll never guess, my 10mm is actually a 7.5mm, amazing, thank you!!!
I was really hoping it would turn out like this, so was so happy to also have an accidentally on purpose outcome as well!!
Straight away I had a feeling it had worked, as I've been using a regular sized 10mm to make a scarf recently, so as soon as I sorted through the hooks to find the 10mm one I could see right away that it looked narrower, even before I measured it!
What's even more amusing is the page I looked at, if you scroll down near the bottom it actually shows a picture of a digital measuring machine that they're using to show their hooks against another brand to demonstrate that for example, if it says 9mm on their hook it is "truly" a 9mm, and then showing side by side another brand and then measuring that, and it showing for example that it's a 9mm but measures as am 8mm, so that was really hilarious to me!
It suggests that enough people complained perhaps, and so they thought they should show a photo to prove that their hooks are the size they're meant to be, but in actual fact rather than correcting this (much to my relief!) the sizing is still off anyway!?!
Normally an error like this you'd want to return the product, but in this case it's actually the outcome I was hoping for, as you know, so I had to tell you!
Just a word of warning though to anyone thinking of ordering this set and wanting an actual 10mm hook, as that's not what they're likely to get, but if anyone else is having trouble getting their hands on a 7.5mm, jump on it!! :)
Hi Nick! I can so relate to the hook issue. I did not buy those fancy “Amore” hooks though. I found some generic ones on the Amazonian, 8 sizes from 2.5mm to 6.0 and I paid just over $11.00. I will never use a metal hook after using this flat hook. It crochets so much better and stays on the hook better!
I always knew there was a difference in the feel but thought I was just overdramatizing the issue with my HUZZband, so that he would buy me the “other kind” of hooks that I wanted because I only had a few sizes. I ended up buying them without discussing it with him first. Your video helped him understand that I WAS’NT over dramatic about the needles and you validated what I told him about how the end result was smoother, softer and just better somehow. I appreciate you!! Thank you so much!-Dodi
The same exact thing has happened to me, I was thinking maybe it was my crochet tension on that day (if I was stressed out about something or not lol) I never thought to check out the hooks itself. I’m obsessed with Furls hooks omg they are beautiful and are always coming out with something more beautiful!!
I've been doing nothing but granny squares nonstop since November, so my tension is pretty consistent. I was pretty convinced it wasn't a "me" issue in this case!!
I will definitely keep an eye on the size/brand of hook and stick with that when I work on my projects.
I just found your channel and I am Obsessed! Y’all are so informative AnD fun. Thanks for sharing your life with us ❤
Thank you for the video. I had a whole bunch of different types and sizes. I was separating them to give a set to my daughter and noticed the difference. Then we were starting blankets and needed to buy one for her - it wasn’t the same size as mine! It’s still a mystery why though 🤨
I have several sets and one-off crochet hooks.
Some yarn seems to "stick" to hooks, especially plastic ones, even if they are good quality (Prym are great, I'm in the UK so I don't know what availability is like in the USA).
That type of yarn is better with metal hooks.
Some patterns are better with hooks without handles, if you need to gather several loops at once such as with a bobble stitch, more space is easier.
I've also found super chunky yarn easier on metal hooks without a handle, that doesn't hurt my hand so much.
As I'm getting old now (😢😢), I have to be careful about how much I do so that I can avoid painful hands.
This seems to help:
Change projects, yarn weight and hook size even during the same day, stops my hands for getting stiff and using the different types of hooks you've shown really helps that 😊
Hi nick I been crocheting for many years and never noticed that before thank you for letting everyone know. And I do not own a 10mm hook the biggest one I used is a 8mm. Thank you for the video take care have a wonderful evening or day😊
Great video! I am a nurse and lover of the Clover crochet hooks. I recently bought a second set of the smaller metal Clover hooks and I noticed the metal used on them was different than my older hooks. I bought the set off Amazon and I think they may be a knockoff. What the heck?? Anyway, I will be ordering from the Clover website from now on. Would love the hook in your give away😌
I started picking up crochet again this year. I noticed a difference immediately with my susan bates hook and my clover. But yeah, NOBODY talks about it so thank you for making this video! I wasn't going crazy hahah
Wow, I had not realized that! Thanks for bringing this up. I will do what everyone is saying to use the same hook for a project and not switch around.
I love your channel ❤️ I'd love to enter your giveaway, and yes, I have noticed hooks can be different...but seeing your project, that is pretty extreme. I'd say go with the Clover hooks...they are a trusted brand. I'm not sure about the wierd Amazon hooks. You are making a very beautiful project and you want it to be stable the squares to match. I love what your making!!! Be sure to video when you join the squares I'd love to see that, and your border!!! The colors are beautiful 😍 Great job and great video!!😊😊
😮 that has absolutely blown my mind!!!
I've been slower collecting clover amour crochet hooks for approximately a year now. I really enjoy them and so much easier with my arthritis. Great video ❤
The cheaper hooks can and are not the right sizes in the larger hooks. I love Susan Bates hooks, most of mine are over 50 + years old, made in America. My daughter wanted her own new hooks so I bought her sets of Susan Bates hooks, they are now made in Mexico, some of the sizes are wrong. She resized them and uses them, as she also loves Bates hooks. Very disappointing that companies do not have quality control. when I teach crochet to new crochet I tell them to not waste their money on the packs of cheap hooks. I keep several brands of hooks so my students can use different hooks to see which ones the like. I start all my students on a #6 or J hook. Sorry you didn't have someone to talk to about hooks before you bought yours. Love the colors of your larger granny squares, and I like your layout plane. I do have the small Clover hooks they were a gift and I have used them. Never bought the larger ones. Happy I found your channel, I'll share it on Facebook so others can see the differences in hook sizes. Good information.
I just bought a size 5 and 8 clover amour! I absolutely love them and want to get all sizes! You’re awesome for thinking of doing a giveaway 😊
I have been wondering if I could change from a wooden hook to my favorite metal - I guess I should wait to use the metal hook until I start a new project...
I absolutely love the Clover Amour hooks, I have all the little ones, and 2 sets of the others up to a size 6. I then bought a 7mm from them. I would love the bigger hook because I find that other hooks tend to be much to long for my the palm of my hand! I have also found that some yarns really do just glide better on certain kinds of hooks, metal, plastic, ect.
Thanks for the video. Just learning to crochet and never knew this. Which is why I'll dedicate one hook to one project. Thanks again.