How to Hold a Crochet Hook & Yarn (Beginner Guide to Better Tension)

One of the biggest frustrations beginners face isn’t stitches.

It’s holding everything comfortably.

If your hands feel awkward, your stitches are too tight, or your yarn keeps slipping — this guide will fix that.

If you’re completely new, start with our full guide first:

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

Now let’s improve your comfort and tension.

1️⃣ How to Hold a Crochet Hook

There are two main ways to hold a crochet hook:

Knife Grip

This looks like holding a dinner knife.

• Hand rests over the hook

• Thumb and index finger pinch the flat section

• Common for ergonomic hooks

Best For:

• Beginners

• Longer crochet sessions

• Better control

Pencil Grip

This looks like holding a pencil.

• Hook rests between thumb and index finger

• More wrist movement

• Feels natural for some people

Best For:

• Smaller stitches

• Fine yarn

• People used to writing grip

Which Is Better?

Neither.

Choose what feels natural and relaxed. Comfort is more important than technique.

2️⃣ How to Hold Yarn (Controlling Tension)

Tension = how tightly you hold the yarn.

If your stitches are:

• Too tight → hard to insert hook

• Too loose → floppy and uneven

Simple Beginner Yarn Hold

Try this:

1. Wrap yarn over your pinky

2. Under your ring finger

3. Over your middle finger

4. Under your index finger

5. Use index finger to guide yarn

But remember — there is no single correct method.

The goal:

✔ Smooth yarn flow

✔ Even stitch size

✔ Relaxed hands

3️⃣ Why Your Crochet Might Be Too Tight

Common beginner mistakes:

• Gripping the hook too hard

• Pulling yarn too firmly

• Using the wrong hook size

• Feeling nervous about stitches coming undone

Relax your shoulders. Loosen your grip. Let the hook glide.

4️⃣ Practice Exercise for Better Tension

Try this simple drill:

• Chain 20 stitches

• Work 5 rows of single crochet

• Focus only on relaxed hands

Don’t worry about perfection.

Consistency comes with repetition.

5️⃣ Signs Your Tension Is Improving

• Hook slides easily into stitches

• Rows look even

• Edges stop pulling inward

• Hands feel relaxed

Tension improves naturally within a few practice sessions.

How This Connects to Your Beginner Journey

Once your grip and tension feel comfortable:

👉 Read: 7 Easy Crochet Stitches Every Beginner Should Learn

👉 Then try: 10 Easy Crochet Projects for Absolute Beginners

Crochet becomes much more enjoyable once your hands feel confident.

FAQ – Holding a Crochet Hook & Yarn

What is the best way to hold a crochet hook?

Either knife grip or pencil grip. Choose the one that feels comfortable and relaxed.

Why are my crochet stitches so tight?

You may be gripping the yarn or hook too firmly. Try relaxing your hands and loosening tension slightly.

Is knife grip better than pencil grip?

Neither is better. Most beginners prefer knife grip, but comfort matters most.

How long does it take to improve crochet tension?

Most beginners notice improvement within a few practice sessions.

Should crochet hurt my hands?

No. If it does, loosen your grip and take breaks.