Tunisian crochet hooks, also called afghan hooks, are slightly different from regular crochet hooks because they’re generally longer and have a stopper or knob on the end.
There are many different lengths and sizes. Let’s discuss the differences so you can choose the best one to meet your needs.
Tips on Choosing The Best Tunisian Crochet Hook
If you are new to Tunisian crochet, when choosing your hooks, keep in mind a few tips.
1) To get started, just use your regular crochet hook. Keep the loops from falling off the end using a rubber band wrapped around the end.
You may be able to fit the entire width of a scarf or dishcloth on your regular crochet hook, so you can even complete a project without worrying about a longer Tunisian crochet hook at all!
2) Your Tunisian hook needs to be at least 1/3 as long as your project. For instance, you can make a 30″ project on a 10″ hook. However, some people prefer a cable to help distribute the weight of the work.
3) A double-ended hook can be used for regular Tunisian crochet. If your loops fall off the end, put a rubber band on the end to use as a stopper.
4) Double-ended Tunisian hooks are a good bargain since you can use them for regular Tunisian, double-ended Tunisian, and Tunisian in-the-round.
5) The choice of hook is a personal preference. There is no answer to “Which is the best?” Whether you like working with a cabled hook or a straight hook. Or whether you like working with a metal hook or a bamboo hook. These are personal choices.
Read more about the different types of crochet hooks available.
6) You do not need a set of Tunisian crochet hooks to start. While having a range of sizes is nice, it’s not necessary when you’re learning. You can even use a regular crochet hook to learn the stitches before you commit to purchasing extra hooks.
If you would like an inexpensive set to get started, several affordable generic bamboo sets are available. These would get you started, and you can always pick up a nicer set later. Keep in mind that the smaller size bamboo hooks can snap easily, but the larger sizes are used more anyway.
6) The usual “rule of thumb” on choosing a hook size is to use a size 2 or 3 sizes larger than the suggested crochet hook size of your yarn or, if there is no recommended crochet hook size, choose a hook 3 or 4 sizes larger than the suggested knitting needle size.
The most frequent Tunisian hook sizes I use are K and L with worsted/Aran weight.
ChiaoGoo now makes this fabulous Tunisian crochet interchangeable hook set with their SPIN feature!
When working with an extended hook, the cable usually flops around and hinders your progress because you are trying to keep it from turning.
No more battling with your cabled hook!
With the ChiaoGoo Tunisian crochet interchangeable cable hooks, the base of the hook tip spins to match your movements. You will no longer need to battle with your hook.
This Tunisian crochet interchangeable hook with cables set is my current favorite.
The SPIN feature takes a lot of pressure off the wrist, especially when working on bigger projects.
If you’ve ever worked with a hook with a cord and felt like you were battling with the cord to keep the hook straight, this hook will be your favorite too!
ChiaoGoo makes flexible and straight Tunisian crochet hooks. I believe I also have some double-ended cabled hooks from them. All are made of bamboo.
The flexible hooks are available in 24, 32, 40, and 60″ cord lengths and range in size from 4mm to 11.5mm.
The straight hooks are 9″ or 13″ in length and range in size from 3.5mm to 11.5mm.
Clover makes this lovely Tunisian crochet interchangeable hook with cables set with lightweight bamboo hooks in a handy case.
Clover also makes some excellent 6″ double-ended hooks, perfect for Tunisian crochet in-the-round. They are available in sizes 4mm through 6mm.
They also make double-ended hooks with a different size hook tip on each end. These are handy for regular crochet to reduce the number of hooks you carry around.
Ensure you get the double-ended hook made for Afghan/Tunisian crochet.
Denise carries Tunisian crochet interchangeable hooks with cables. This will allow you to switch cables and hooks to suit your project. They are available in a set or separately.
Yes, you can purchase the hooks separately, which will allow you to try out the hooks before buying the set.
Or, only purchase those hooks you use most. You can use the hooks for regular Tunisian, double-ended Tunisian, and Tunisian in-the-round.
The set includes: 12 individual hooks, sizes 3.75mm to 15mm, 7 cord lengths, four end buttons, and two extenders.
The set works with the Denise Interchangeable Knitting Needles, so you can interchange the cables as needed.
I use the Denise hook tips for regular crocheting at times as well. I especially find that the sharp point helps with slip stitch crocheting.
Boye is a well-known brand. Straight Tunisian hooks are available in a 14″ length and are readily available in sizes H, I, and K.
They also make double-ended 14″ hooks and have flex-cable hooks.
Boye’s Rosewood collection includes some super jumbo hooks like sizes R, S, and T (14″ length).
Read our guide to Boye hooks.
Susan Bates is also a popular and well-known brand. Hooks come in a 10″ length, making them lighter should you need something shorter. They are available in regular, double-ended, and flex-cable.
Read our guide to Susan Bates hooks.
Radiant style Tunisian crochet with interchangeable hooks and cables is available from Knit Picks.
They work with the same interchangeable cables as their knitting needles. Hook tips and cables are also available separately. Tunisian crochet hook tips are available in sizes 3.5mm through 10mm.
Furls specializes in ergonomic hooks that take the stress off your wrist. The hooks come in various shapes and materials, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your situation.
These hooks are beautifully made from premium materials with a price tag to match.
Read our complete guide to Furls Crochet Hooks.
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