How to Start Crocheting with Just 2 Tools (and What to Add Next)
If you’ve ever thought, “What do I need to start crocheting?” — you’re not alone. Whether you’re dipping your toes into crochet for the first time or gearing up to create adorable amigurumi creatures, having the right tools on hand can make a world of difference.
In this guide, I’m walking you through the essential crochet tools and accessories that are perfect for beginners. I’ll share what I started with, what I recommend as you grow your skills, and a few fun extras to add personality and polish to your handmade creations.
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🧶 The Only Two Crochet Tools You Truly Need to Start
Before you fall down the rabbit hole of craft supplies (trust me, it happens!), let’s begin with the bare minimum:
A crochet hook
A ball of yarn
That’s it. That’s all you need to create your very first project — whether it’s a coaster, granny square, or simple plushie.
🪝 Choosing a Beginner-Friendly Crochet Hook
Start with a 3.0mm or 3.5mm crochet hook — small enough to give you control, but large enough to work with common yarn weights like DK (double knitting) or worsted. Metal or aluminum hooks are super affordable and easy to find, but if you plan to crochet regularly, I highly recommend ergonomic hooks with soft handles. They’re gentler on your wrists and make longer crochet sessions more comfortable.
➡️ Recommended: Ergonomic Crochet Hooks Set – 8 Sizes with Soft Handles
🧵 Picking Your First Yarn
Acrylic yarn is ideal for beginners. It’s budget-friendly, comes in loads of colors, and glides nicely on the hook. I suggest choosing a DK weight yarn (look for size 3 on the label) and avoiding anything fuzzy or textured at first — you want to see your stitches clearly.
➡️ Recommended: Multi-Color Acrylic Yarn Starter Pack
Moving Into Amigurumi? Add These Supplies
If your goal is to make amigurumi — those charming little crochet animals and dolls — you’ll want to add a few more tools to your kit.
🪡 Darning Needles
You’ll need a blunt-tipped yarn needle (often called a tapestry or darning needle) to sew body parts together and weave in yarn ends.
➡️ Recommended: Set of Large Eye Blunt Needles (Multiple Sizes)
🔄 Stitch Markers
When working in continuous rounds (like you do in amigurumi), stitch markers are essential. Use them to track where your rows begin so you don’t lose count.
➡️ Recommended: Colorful Locking Stitch Markers – 150 Pieces
☁️ Stuffing
Polyester fiberfill (also called Poly-Fil) is the go-to for stuffing amigurumi. It’s soft, squishy, and easy to shape. Keep a bag on hand — it goes fast once you’re hooked!
➡️ Recommended: Poly-Fil Fiber Stuffing – 10 oz Bag
👁️ Safety Eyes
Want your plush creations to really come to life? Safety eyes are easy to attach and stay secure. I prefer 4mm for smaller amigurumi.
➡️ Recommended: Assorted Safety Eyes with Washers
✂️ Don’t Forget These Must-Have Crochet Tools
Even outside of amigurumi, these accessories are super handy to keep in your toolkit.
✂ Scissors
You don’t need fancy embroidery scissors — just a pair of small, sharp ones that fit in your project bag.
🧲 Crochet Storage
Once your toolkit starts growing, organization is key. Yarn bags with grommets help you feed yarn smoothly as you crochet, while smaller pouches keep hooks and accessories tidy.
➡️ Recommended:
✨ Add-On Accessories for Detail & Fun
These extras are totally optional, but they let you add your own flair to each project:
Wire: Great for shaping limbs or creating accessories like glasses or antennas.
Toothpicks: Surprisingly useful for making props — think mini wands or staffs.
Rhinestones: A fun way to add sparkle — perfect for eyes, buttons, or tiny accessories.
➡️ Recommended:
🧵 What’s the Best Way to Store Crochet Supplies?
Personally, I tried the big yarn totes… and they just didn’t work for my lifestyle. My favorite solution? A makeup roll pouch! It’s compact, expands flat when open, and fits yarn, hooks, and tools — perfect for crocheting on the go.
➡️ Recommended: Expandable Travel Pouch for Crochet Tools
💡 Final Thoughts
Crocheting is one of those hobbies where you can start super simple and grow into it over time. Start with the basics, enjoy the process, and add to your toolkit as your skills grow. If you’re planning to create amigurumi, grab those extra tools mentioned above — and have fun making magic with yarn!
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📌 Pin It for Later
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