Last night, I made a trip to the hobby store (who can resist a 50% off sale on yarn?) and I browsed through the crochet notions. I've recently begun to get a collection of ergonomic hooks and, from many reviews, bought a Clover Soft Touch a few weeks ago. At first, I hated it. The actual hook that extends beyond the grip is just too short for me--it felt awkward. I kept using it, however, and got to where I wanted more ergonomic hooks. So last night I bought one of every brand that the two hobby stores had on their shelves (which was only three hooks). I wanted to review these hooks for you today.
3. Susan Bates Bamboo Handle Crochet Hook
This hook was the worst of the three. While the bamboo grip does provide some relief over the usual aluminum hook, it was not comfortable to use. I thought at first that, like the Clover, I simply had not used it enough so I have completed an entire project with it (check back tomorrow to see what I made) and I still don't really care for it. The bamboo is not molded so it more or less feels like you are holding a really large wooden hook. Granted, my hands are small but the grip was too large and hard for my taste. Now for the good news: it's economical and the handle is made from bamboo--a renewable resource. I purchased my hook from Hancock Fabrics for a measly $2.99!
Final Verdict: This hook is very affordable and would work well as a first set of ergonomic hooks for the casual crocheter. If you crochet frequently, as I do, pass this one by and fork over a little more money for a better hook.
2. Clover Brand Soft Touch Crochet Hook
As mentioned above, I now have two of these hooks. They are more expensive than the Susan Bates Bamboo Hook costing in the area of $5.00 - $6.00 (It was over $8 at Hancock but cheaper at Michael's). While that still seems pretty cheap, take notice that $6.00 is
DOUBLE the price of the Susan Bates hook. The Clover hook features an aluminum hook with a plastic handle. While the plastic is just as hard as the bamboo, it is a smaller grip that has some shape to it. The grip also features a "soft touch" area for your thumb. It feels like a rubbery spot but it is quite comfortable. The biggest problem I have is the length of the hook, speaking only about the aluminum that is beyond the grip. The actual hook is only 1.5" from grip to the top of the hook! The Susan Bates Bamboo hook offers 2.5" so why is the Clover Hook so short? For me, this made it awkward to use AT FIRST but I grew to love it.
Final Verdict: If you are on a budget but you crochet all the time, this is the hook for you. If you have larger hands, the grip may be too small for you but I think the average woman will find this grip much more comfortable than the bamboo grip. The soft touch is a really nice touch (see what I did there? lol) and the price is still pretty affordable.
1. The Crochet Dude Ergonomic Aluminum Crochet Hook
My mother and I (yes, I shop for yarn with my mommy and we have a great time!) laughed when we saw this crochet hook. Who would've thought that a crochet hook made by "The Crochet Dude" would be at the top of my list? I grabbed this hook from the package and it was if the clouds parted and the sun beamed down for the first time. I honestly can't put into words how wonderful this hook is. First, it is longer than both of the other contenders, granted not by much. Second, the grip is so comfortable that I have decided to stop trying new hooks (we'll see how long
that will last). The grip is rubber, akin to the rubber pencil grips that everyone fought over in grade school. In the same way, it is both comfortable and practical--it keeps your hook from slipping. I'm serious, comfort AND a no-slip grip! If you're not already on your way to purchase one, what are you waiting for? They run about $5.00 each, affordable enough to buy an entire set without breaking the bank.
Final Verdict: Out of the three hooks that I purchased, this is it! The grip is comfortable, the length is similar to your Boye or Bates hooks and it's affordable at just $5.00 per hook. Obviously if you are new to crochet or maybe unsure that you'll continue to crochet, stick with the cheap hooks for now but if you are serious about crochet, buy this hook. My wrist doesn't hurt as much when I use an ergonomic hook and I can't wait to have one of these in every size.
That's it for today. Thanks to my momma for buying me new hooks so I could comfortably crochet (and giving me material to blog about). I hope this review helps you to decide which ergonomic hook to buy, be it any of the three. Which hook is your favorite? Share in the comments below and be sure to like and subscribe. Also, check out my shop. I am constantly adding new items to the shop but you can also sign up for my newsletter on my home page to receive updates directly to your inbox. Have a great night guys.
