So you’ve decided to learn to crochet. You’ve bought the yarn, you got the right size hook, you have your pattern…now what?
Well, you have to decide how to hold the hook.
There are two “main” ways to hold the hook. Neither one is particularly better or worse than the other, it’s really more about how it feels in your hand. So let’s talk about these two methods.
Pencil Grip
The first one is the pencil grip. Much as the name suggests, the hook will be held similar to a pencil. The body of the hook will rest on top of the hand, between the thumb and index finger, and the closer part of the hook will be gripped by the thumb, index, and middle fingers.
This is a great way to start out, as it can give more control over the stitches. It can allow for more precise stitches and is great for detailed patterns.
Knife Grip
The other option is the knife grip. In this grip, the hook is held more similar to a knife, with the body of the hook underneath the hand and the closer part held with the thumb, index, and middle fingers. This grip may give the user better control, as well as less strain on the wrists due to less of a scooping motion.
Are those the only way to hold your hook? Absolutely not! There are a million different variations on how to hold a crochet hook, so don’t feel bad if you hold yours a little differently than one of those options. I hold mine weirdly, but if it works for you, then it’s not weird at all! I have some wrist pain from an old injury, so the two standard methods don’t work as well for me. I’m still able to make it work though!
Remember the end goal is to create something fun and unique. Any way you hold the hook that doesn’t put strain on your body is an acceptable way to hold it. The goal is to find something comfortable that allows you to perform the stitches properly.
So tell me, which grip do you use to hold your hook? One of these two options, or something totally different like me?