🪝 How Do I Hold the Yarn and Hook? (Crochet Tips for Beginners)

If you’re brand new to crochet, one of the first (and most awkward) things to figure out is:

“How do I hold the yarn and the hook?”

Spoiler alert: there’s no one right way! 🙌 Everyone has their own style, and what works best for you will come with a little practice and patience. That said, a few common ways to hold your yarn and hook can help you get started comfortably and confidently.

Let’s break it down!

🧶 How to Hold a Crochet Hook

There are two popular ways to hold a crochet hook:

✏️ 1. The Pencil Grip

You hold the hook like you would a pencil—between your thumb and index finger.

If you like a precise, delicate feel, this grip gives you more control.

🍴 2. The Knife Grip

You hold the hook like a dinner knife—resting in your palm, with your thumb on one side and fingers wrapped around the other.

This grip gives more power and is great for those who like a firmer hold.

Try both and see what feels natural. There’s no wrong answer—just what feels best in your hands!

🧵 How to Hold the Yarn

Holding the yarn helps control tension, which is how tight or loose your stitches are. Consistent tension = even stitches!

Here’s a basic method to try:

👉 Step-by-Step Yarn Hold:

1. Drape the yarn over your pinky finger (underneath).

2. Weave it under your ring and middle fingers.

3. Wrap it over your index finger.

4. Pinch the working loop and base of your project with your non-dominant thumb and middle finger.

Your index finger controls the tension and helps guide the yarn to the hook.

🎯 Tips for Finding Your Comfort Zone

• Relax your hands. Gripping too tightly will tire you out fast!

• Don’t worry if it feels awkward at first. It’s like learning to write—you’ll develop muscle memory with time.

• Watch videos or mirror a friend. Sometimes seeing the motions helps it click.

• Experiment. Everyone holds their yarn and hook a little differently, and that’s totally okay.

🧶 Bonus: What If the Yarn Doesn’t Flow Smoothly?

If your yarn feels too tight or keeps slipping, try adjusting how it’s wrapped around your fingers. Some crocheters skip the pinky, or just loop it around the index finger. Play with different wraps until the yarn feeds smoothly.

💡 The Bottom Line

There’s no perfect way to hold your yarn and hook—just the way that works for you. With practice, it’ll start to feel natural and effortless. And once you’re comfortable, you’ll fly through stitches quickly!