Beginner Crochet Supplies: What You Actually Need to Start (No Overbuying)

Starting crochet is exciting — but walking into a craft store (or browsing online) can feel overwhelming.

Hooks in every size. Yarn in hundreds of colours. Tools you’ve never heard of.

The good news?

You only need a few simple supplies to begin confidently.

If you haven’t yet, read our complete guide:

👉 How to Start Crochet as a Complete Beginner (2026 Guide)

(This post breaks down everything step-by-step.)

This guide focuses purely on what to buy — and what to skip.

1. Crochet Hooks (Start With Just One)

Recommended for Beginners:

• 5mm (H-8 UK/US) hook

• Aluminium or ergonomic handle

A 5mm hook works beautifully with standard beginner-friendly yarns.

Types of Hooks:

• Aluminium (budget-friendly & smooth)

• Ergonomic (comfortable for longer sessions)

• Plastic (lightweight but less durable)

💡 You do NOT need a full hook set yet.

2. Yarn (Choose the Right Type)

Best Yarn for Beginners:

• Worsted weight / Aran weight

• Acrylic yarn

• Light or medium solid colour

Why acrylic?

• Affordable

• Easy to work with

• Forgiving for mistakes

Avoid:

• Very dark colours (hard to see stitches)

• Super fluffy yarn

• Very thin yarn

3. Scissors

Any small, sharp scissors will do.

You don’t need specialty scissors — just something that cuts yarn cleanly.

4. Tapestry Needle (For Finishing)

You’ll need this to:

• Weave in ends

• Join pieces

• Finish projects neatly

Choose:

• Large eye

• Blunt tip

5. Optional (But Helpful) Tools

You don’t need these immediately, but they help:

• Stitch markers

• Measuring tape

• Row counter

Start simple. Add tools as you grow.

What You Do NOT Need as a Beginner

Avoid overspending on:

• Full luxury hook sets

• Expensive wool yarn

• Blocking boards

• Pattern books (free tutorials work fine!)

• Fancy yarn bowls

Focus on practice — not perfection.

Simple Beginner Supply Checklist

✔ 5mm crochet hook

✔ Worsted/Aran acrylic yarn

✔ Small scissors

✔ Tapestry needle

That’s it.

You can start crocheting today.

How This Connects to Your Crochet Journey

Once you’ve gathered your supplies:

👉 Read: How to Start Crochet as a Complete Beginner (2026 Guide)

👉 Then practise with: 7 Easy Crochet Stitches Every Beginner Should Learn

This is how we build confidence step by step.

FAQ – Beginner Crochet Supplies

What size crochet hook is best for beginners?

A 5mm hook is ideal because it pairs well with standard worsted weight yarn and is easy to handle.

What is the easiest yarn for beginners?

Acrylic yarn in a light colour is easiest to work with and affordable for practice.

Should I buy a crochet hook set?

No. Start with one 5mm hook and expand later.

Is expensive yarn better for beginners?

Not at the beginning. Affordable acrylic yarn is perfect for learning.

How much does it cost to start crochet?

You can begin for under £15 with basic supplies.