Crochet doesn’t take much to get started...just a hook and yarn. But once you’ve been crocheting for a while, you discover certain tools make the experience easier, more comfortable, and a whole lot more fun.
These are the 9 crochet tools I can’t live without (OK…won’t live without).
Some of them are simple and inexpensive, while others are bigger investments, but every single one has earned its place in my crochet toolkit.
Tool #1: Ergonomic Crochet Hooks
When it comes to comfort and long crochet sessions, ergonomic cups/hooks are non-negotiable for me.
These hooks are crafted to reduce hand fatigue, prevent joint strain, and make every stitch glide smoother...especially helpful if you crochet for hours, battle arthritis, or just want your hands to feel better by the end of the day.
What I Use & Love
- Amazon Set – This aluminum set (3.5 mm to 8 mm) comes with nine hooks plus a handy project bag. The finish is polished so the yarn slides smoothly, and the color-coding helps me grab the size I need without fumbling.
- Furls Hooks – If you like something a bit more premium, with gorgeous materials and an ergonomic handle that fits so nicely in the hand, Furls delivers. These are a treat to use when you want a little extra luxury in your crochet time.
Why I Can’t Live Without Them
- Reduced strain — The handle design helps distribute pressure more evenly across the hand, which means fewer cramps, especially when working on big blankets or complicated stitches.
- Smooth stitching — With good contours and polished hooks, stitches don’t catch or snag, so your work flows better.
- Versatility — Different sizes let me switch between fine threads and chunky yarns without switching hook styles, while still retaining comfort.
- A better grip — I find my hands stay more relaxed rather than clenching, which means less fatigue, more stitches per hour, and better overall enjoyment.
Tool #2: The Maker’s Pillow by Valari (Via crafteaze)
The Maker’s Pillow is one of those tools that feels like a luxury, but once you try it, you’ll wonder how you lived without it.
Made by Valari and sold through crafteaze, this pillow blends ergonomic support with built-in utility so you can crochet comfortably and have your tools handy. (Check it out here)
What It Is & Why It’s So Great
- Filled with hypoallergenic stuffing and covered in premium fabrics like suede or velvet-look material, it feels soft and supportive against your arms.
- Integrated side pockets hold scissors or small crochet notions so everything stays within reach.
- Comes with extension straps to adjust the fit whether you’re sitting upright, leaning back, or switching positions.
How It Adds Value to Your Crochet Time
- Supports posture & relieves pain — No more aching shoulders, neck, or back after long crochet sessions.
- Keeps you organized mid-project — Tools stay nearby instead of slipping into the couch cushions.
- Durable & comfortable — Built to last, so you can stay “in the zone” for hours.
✨ Special Discount: You can get 15% off your Maker’s Pillow purchase with the code ICANCROCHETTHAT15 at checkout.
Tool #3: Yarn Winder + Swift
There’s nothing quite as satisfying as seeing a hank of yarn transformed into a neat, center-pull cake. The yarn winder + swift combo is a behind-the-scenes tool that changes your project flow.
The model I use is the LAMXD Yarn Ball Winder with Umbrella Swift, which works hard and keeps yarn handling simple.
What It Is & Key Features
- The swift holds hanks of yarn open and lets you wind them evenly without tangles. It clamps onto a table edge for stability.
- The winder makes center-pull yarn cakes, which feed smoothly without twisting or snagging.
- The crank is made of metal (durable), and the gear is “low-noise,” so you can wind without making a big racket.
- Capacity: about 4 ounces (~100 grams) of yarn. Good for many projects.
- Clamp fits tables up to about 1.4–1.75″ thick. The swift folds down when you're done, making storage easier.
Why I Can’t Crochet Without It
- Tangle prevention — Using a swift means the yarn stays smooth and open; no more fighting knots or winding by hand.
- Time saver — What used to take me ages to wind by hand now takes a small fraction of the time. More energy left for crocheting!
- Consistent cakes — Center-pull cakes give you more even tension from start to finish. That helps especially with stitch-counts and gauge-sensitive patterns.
- Comfort + ease — Cranking a winder is easier on your hands than trying to hold a hank and pull into cake manually; less strain.
- Storage friendly — Fold-down swift means you aren’t stuck with bulky equipment taking up too much space.
Purchase on Amazon.com HERE
Tool #4: Small Sharp Scissors
When it comes to finishing touches, snipping yarn tails, trimming fringe, cutting threads cleanly, there’s nothing that beats a small, sharp pair of scissors.
I’ve used lots of scissors over the years, but the ones I can’t live without are tiny, precise, and yes… pretty.
Why These Are My Go-To Scissors
- They’re razor-sharp: They cut through yarn cleanly without tugging or fraying. A single snip, even with thicker yarns, and you get a clean edge.
- Compact size: These scissors are small enough to slip into any project bag, purse, or pocket so I always have them on hand—even when traveling or working on-the-go.
- They double as a pretty accessory: I love scissors that look pretty because even small tools bring joy when they’re nice to use.
- Versatile: Great for trimming ends, cutting yarn from skeins, or doing tiny detail work. They’re also helpful for snipping loose fibers without messing up other stitches.
What to Look for in a Pair
- Stainless steel blades (resistance to rust, sharpness retention)
- Fine, pointed tip for precision work
- Comfortable handle, even for small hands
- Some sort of protective sheath or cover helps avoid damage or accidental snips
My Favorite Pair — the one I show in the video is from Amazon. It’s my everyday pair for almost all projects. Reliable, sharp, cute, and always in my bag.
Tool #5: Measuring Tape
One of those tools you may not think about until you need it and when you do, it becomes absolutely essential.
I always keep a small retractable measuring tape close by, because accurate measurements can make the difference between a perfect fit and a frustrating frogging session.
What This Tape Measure Offers
- Retractable design: Push a button and the tape retracts back into its small, protective case. No tangles, no floppy tape to wrestle with.
- Dual-sided markings: One side shows inches, the other centimeters. Ideal whether you're referencing pattern specs in U.S./metric, or switching projects.
- Durable material: The tape is made of non-stretch fiberglass/vinyl inside a plastic case, so it holds up well to frequent use without warping or losing accuracy.
- Portable size: Small and lightweight, it fits in project bags, pockets, or gets clipped on. I stash mine in every WIP bag so it’s always there when I need to check gauge, length, or spacing.
- Clear and easy to read: The numbers and markings are high contrast, big enough that my eyes don’t strain trying to read them, which is a big plus when working under less-than-perfect light.
Why I Can’t Crochet Without It
- When starting a blanket, shawl, or garment, I constantly measure: width, length, border height. A few inches off early on can mean big problems later.
- It helps keeping consistent sizing between pieces (e.g. sleeves, front/back), especially when I take breaks and come back weeks later.
- Using a quality measuring tape means I’m less tempted to eyeball or guess and that saves me time and hassle in the long run.
- Because it’s retractable and protected by its case, I don’t worry about it getting bent or broken in my bag, unlike soft tapes or loose rulers.
Purchase on Amazon.com HERE
Tool #6: Compression Gloves
I started using compression gloves because I was having hand pain, wrist pain, and even some elbow pain, especially after long crochet sessions. These gloves have made a huge difference.
What They Do & Why They Help
- They apply gentle, even pressure to the hand and wrist. This helps reduce swelling and soothe the aches that build up from holding hooks, tugging yarn, and repetitive motion. This kind of support can also help when you’re dealing with tendon strain or overuse.
- The gloves help with warmth and circulation, which means joints stay more flexible, less stiff. When it’s cold, or when I sit for a long time crocheting, my hands get tight, gloves help with that.
- Using them during longer sessions gives me more crochet time with less discomfort. Before, after maybe an hour or two, I’d feel soreness in the wrist or elbow. With the gloves, I can push longer or take shorter breaks and still feel okay.
Features I Like
- The pair I bought fit well — snug but not restrictive — so I still have good control over the hook.
- They’re durable enough to use often, and the material breathes so my hands don’t get clammy.
- They’re easy to slip on/off between projects or when I need a break or stretch.
What to Look for in Good Crochet Compression Gloves
- A good, snug fit (not too tight or too loose) so the compression is effective without cutting off circulation.
- Material that balances stretch + breathability (so you don’t overheat).
- Partial/fingerless versions or ones with open fingertips if you still want maximum dexterity.
- Durability — you want gloves that hold up after washing and lots of wear.
My Pick
Here are the ones I use → Amazon.com
Tool #7: Comfortable Chair
Crocheting can mean hours spent in one spot, which is why a comfortable chair is one of my most important “tools.”
Having the right chair makes a world of difference, not only for your back and posture, but also for keeping you relaxed and able to enjoy longer crochet sessions without pain.
My Crochet Chairs
- In my office, I use a white leather chair with an ottoman that my mom gave me. It’s supportive, stylish, and when I put my feet up, it’s the perfect setup for crocheting in comfort.
- In the living room, I have a big gray chair that’s equally perfect. It offers great arm and back support, and it’s where I often curl up with a blanket-in-progress.
Why It Matters
- Arm support: A chair with arms helps reduce strain on your shoulders and wrists by keeping them supported while you work.
- Back support: Good lumbar and back support means you can crochet longer without dealing with stiffness or soreness afterward.
- Overall comfort: The cozier you are, the more your crochet time feels like a treat rather than a workout for your body.
Takeaway
If you plan to spend hours crocheting, a comfortable chair isn’t just a luxury, it’s a necessity. Find one that gives you both arm and back support, and it will quickly become your best crochet companion.
Tool #8: Storage Bins
Because once you’ve got ergonomic hooks, a comfy chair, swift & winder, etc., the next thing you’ll notice is how fast crochet tools and yarns start spreading around.
Storage isn’t just tidy, it’s crucial for keeping your space functional, accessible, and inspiring. That’s where the Bobble & Puff storage bins come in.
What Makes These Bins Special
- These are from our sister company, so they’re designed with crochet makers in mind. They’re roomy enough for yarn skeins, WIPs, hooks, notions, but still compact so they don’t take over the room.
- Sturdy build—reinforced sides (or strong edges, depending on the style), so the bin holds its shape even when full. They don’t collapse or squeeze your yarn.
- Nice design + finish: Because storing your tools beautifully matters. The aesthetic is clean, simple, and appealing (so your storage can look good in your living room, craft room, wherever).
Why These Bins Are Non-Negotiable for Me
- Reduced clutter = better focus. When everything has a home (yarn, unfinished projects, hooks), I spend less time searching and more time crocheting.
- Protects your yarn & tools. Yarn stays dust-free, hooks stay sharp (no banging into other things), and ends don’t get lost.
- Accessibility. When bins are organized, it’s easier to grab what I need quickly, especially during those “flow state” moments when I don’t want to stop.
- Aesthetic joy. Seeing a neat stack of well-designed bins makes the craft space more inviting. It encourages me to keep everything tidy and enjoy the craft even more.
Tips for Using Your Storage Bins Wisely
- Label the bins (size, project, type of yarn) so you don’t have to open everything to find what you need.
- You can stack these if you don't have a shelf to put them on.
- Clean out those projects occasionally—if a WIP has stalled, either finish it, frog it, or give it away, so things don’t get permanently buried.
Purchase on Amazon.com HERE
Tool #9: Over-the-Door Organizer
As I already mentioned above, when working with lots of yarn, hooks, WIPs, and notions, keeping everything tidy and easy to grab is key, which is why an over-the-door organizer is one of my top tools.
It makes use of vertical space, keeps things visible, and keeps your main work area less cluttered.
What I Love About It
- It hangs over a standard door, which means no drilling or permanent fixtures required.
- Clear or semi-transparent pockets let you see exactly what’s inside: the hook you need, the yarn color, bits & pieces, etc.
- Multiple pockets of various sizes handle everything from small notions (stitch markers, tapestry needles) to skeins or small WIPs.
- It keeps frequently used items within easy reach so you don’t have to get up or rummage through bins in the middle of a project.
My Setup
- I use the Bobble + Puff Over-Door Organizer (from our Yarnstashr™ line) so I can hang my WIPs, hooks, scissors, and extra yarn all in one place. It’s become a go-to system whenever I move from room to room crocheting.
- It’s especially helpful in homes where project space is limited. Hanging it behind a room door or craft closet door gives me extra usable storage without taking up floor or shelf space.
What to Look for in a Good Over-Door Organizer
- Hooks or hanging hardware that fit most standard doors (make sure door thickness is compatible).
- Pockets with reinforced seams so that heavier items don’t pull or sag.
- Material that’s lightweight but durable (non-woven fabric, mesh, etc.), easy to wipe clean, breathable so yarn doesn’t get musty.
Purchase on Amazon.com HERE
Let's Wrap This Up!
That’s my list of crochet tools I won’t live without. Each one makes crocheting more enjoyable and comfortable, and I reach for them almost daily.
💬 What about you? What’s one crochet tool you can’t live without? Share it in the comments on the YouTube video above — I love learning new tips from fellow makers.
