Behind the Line Gathering Materials: Crochet Notions

Okay so far we have gathered yarn, a crochet hook or two (as some patterns call for multiple sizes) and a pattern for the chosen crochet project.  Now let's look into crochet notions and other tools. There are all kinds of fun notions for crocheters.

Some basic crochet tools are:

1. yarn needle
2. scissors
3. ruler
4. stitch marker
5. pad of paper  
6. pen/pencil

A yarn needle is a big needle, mine is plastic.  I use it to sew on crocheted applique, for decorative surface stitches, or to stitch pieces together.

Scissors are needed to cut the yarn.  A ruler is needed to check the gauge and make sure you have a proper sized product.

A stitch marker often looks like a plastic safety pin.  I have used a safety pin to mark a stitch.  I have also just threaded a different colored piece of yarn through the stitch to mark it.  When will you need to use a stitch marker?  They come in handy for all kinds of things.  If you are crocheting in the round continuously, you mark the first stitch of the round.  Otherwise it is very easy to loose how many rounds you have done.  If you are making a blanket or scarf, you can use it to mark every 10 stitches.  

A pad of paper and pen are useful if you are making up your own pattern as you go. I recommend using graph paper if you are working out your own design for a project using filet or tapestry crochet stitch.  Taking notes while working on a ready made pattern is sometimes needed too.

Other notions/tools that make crocheting easier:

1. blocking board
2. pom-pom maker/ tassel maker
3. crochet hook case
4. project bags
5. row/ stitch counter
6. ball winders
7. skein sleeves

A blocking board is needed to finish certain products.  I will get into blocking in a future post. For now it is enough to know that blocking is a means of finishing a product.  It helps the product keep its shape.  There are several ways to do this.

Pom-poms and tassels can be used as decorative finishing touches on a product.  There are lots of do-it-yourself pom-pom and tassels makers.  If you plan on making several pom-poms or tassels however, I suggest you purchase one.

Crochet hook cases and project bags keep your tools and projects organized.  They can be fancy store bought or made from whatever you have around the house.  For example, a paper towel roll tube can be made into a crochet hook case.

A row/ stitch counter is a hand held push button counter.  It helps you keep track of ....you guessed it, rows and stitches.

Ball winders and skein sleeves help keep your yarn tangle free.

Now that you are readying to get started crocheting, here are a few practice tips.

Do you have a favorite or another crochet notion you like to use?  Have you made your own crochet notion?

Shop LiLphanie's Line for fun holiday hats and accessories.