Size matters but what else?

Hello Everyone! I recently came upon a discovery that I just have to share. Some of this information may be known to some of you but for other maybe not. One of the most important tools for us all is our crochet hooks. While at times I may have difficulty trying to figure out which size to use, I never knew that the brand also mattered. I know that may surprise some of you but just take a look.


On the left is the brand Boye. On the right is the Susan Bates brand. They are the same size hook but look at the difference. Boye hooks tend to have a narrow head while Bates hooks have a wider head with a sharper hook. Both of the hooks shown are size 9mm.

Boye brand are commonly found at most super centers while I did not know of Bates until a trip to a craft store.

I also found that Bates brand has hooks with bamboo handles. I bought one on a whim and completely fell in love! I find that the bamboo handle makes the hooks so much easier to work with. Plus if my hands get sweaty the hook doesn't start slipping out of my hands.



Another difference in the hooks are the length. Depending on where you hold your hook can also be a factor to have a project come out a different size than expected. You can clearly see the differences in the hooks shown above.

From the research conducted on this topic I found that some pattern makers not only list the size hook but also the brand and type. Customers apparently like to make sure that when they go to create their work it will turn out how the pattern states. Sometime with out line of work the slightest differences can cause a different outcome in the finished product. Sometimes it can be for the best while at other times it can be frusterating.

I find that both hooks are great to work with depending on the type of yarn being used. It's just something to think about...Enjoy!