Which Needle or Crochet Should I Use (Beginner's Guide)
When you start knitting, one of the first questions that arises is which needle or crochet hook to use . There are so many different sizes, materials, and types, and choosing the right one can seem complicated. In this practical guide from Idealium, we explain step by step how to choose the perfect needle based on the type of yarn, the weight of the ball, and the project you want to create. ✨
1. Introduction: why choosing your needle or crochet hook well is key
Choosing the right needle or hook is half the key to knitting success. It affects the tension (tight/loose), the finish , and your comfort . In this guide, you'll learn how to relate yarn thickness to needle size , which materials are best when starting out, and how to avoid common mistakes.
Idealium Note: In our beginner patterns, we indicate the recommended needle for that project. If your personal tension is different, adjust by knitting looser or tighter to achieve the correct gauge.
2. Types of needles and crochet hooks: materials and shapes
To knit, you can use two needles (knitting) or a crochet hook (crochet). In addition to the size, the shape and material vary:
2.1 Straight and circular needles (two-needle knitting)
- Straight: ideal for flat pieces (scarves, fronts/backs). Simple to start with.
- Circular knitting needles: two points connected by a cable. They are used for knitting flat and in the round (hats, collars, seamless sweaters). They are more ergonomic because the weight rests on the cable.
2.2 Crochet hooks or crochet needles
- Standard Crochet: Single hook; perfect for accessories, amigurumi, and decor.
- Ergonomic Crochet Hook: With thicker/non-slip handle for added comfort.
- Tunisian (Afghan): Combines features of knitting and crochet; requires long or cable hooks.
3. Numbering and measurements: what the numbers on the needles mean
In Spain and Europe, we primarily measure in millimeters (mm) . The higher the number, the thicker the needle/hook. Examples: 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm, etc.
You'll also see international systems (US/UK), but the reliable reference is mm . Always check the yarn label: it usually indicates a recommended needle size (e.g., 4–5 mm).
4. How to know which needle to use depending on the thickness of the thread or ball
Each yarn size works best with a range of measurements. Use this as a guide : the final choice depends on the stitch pattern , your tension , and the desired result (loose or tighter).
4.1 Guideline table of equivalences
| Thickness of the ball | Common name | Needles (knit) | Crochet | Frequent uses |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Very fine | Lace | 1.5–2.5 mm | 1.25–2.0 mm | Openwork shawls, lace |
| Fine | Fingering / Sock | 2.25–3.25 mm | 2.0–3.0 mm | Socks, light clothing |
| Fine-medium | Sport | 3.0–3.75 mm | 2.5–3.5 mm | Fine sweaters, babies |
| Half | DK (Double Knit) | 3.75–4.5 mm | 3.5–4.5 mm | Versatile garments |
| Medium-coarse | Worsted | 4.5–5.5 mm | 4.0–5.5 mm | Sweaters, accessories |
| Thick | Aran | 5.0–6.0 mm | 5.0–6.0 mm | Warm and full-bodied |
| Very thick | Bulky | 6.0–8.0 mm | 6.0–8.0 mm | Collars, quick blankets |
| XL | Super Bulky | 8.0–12 mm | 8.0–12 mm | Express projects, XXL |
Tip: Always make a 10x10 cm swatch . If it's larger than indicated, your knitting is loose (try knitting tighter); if it's smaller, it's tight (work more loosely).
5. What happens if I use a thicker or thinner needle than recommended?
- Thicker: Looser fabric, with more drape, less stitch definition. May show through in garments.
- Thinner: more compact and firm fabric, takes a little more time and can become stiff if you knit too tightly.
The trick is to decide what effect you are looking for and compare it with the pattern sample .
6. How to choose the right needle for beginners
6.1 For knitting with two needles
- Recommended starting size: 4–5 mm with DK/Worsted weight balls (easy to see and handle).
- Type: straight if you feel more confident at first; circular if you want to distribute the weight and prepare round projects.
- Material: bamboo or wood so that the point “doesn’t escape” (rubbing helps beginners).
6.2 For crocheting
- Recommended starting size: 4–5 mm with DK/Worsted balls.
- Type: Ergonomic crochet hook (comfortable handle) for fatigue-free learning.
- Tip: If you make amigurumi , choose a crochet hook that is half a size smaller so that the gaps in the stuffing are not visible.
7. Needle materials: bamboo, metal, plastic… which one to choose?
- Bamboo/wood: Lightweight, warm to the touch, and grippy. Perfect for beginners and for slippery fibers (cotton, silk).
- Metal/aluminum: Very smooth and durable; ideal for fast knitting or stitches that require fluidity.
- Plastic/ABS: economical and lightweight; comfortable in thicker sizes.
Summary: If you're just starting out, try bamboo ; as you gain proficiency, you might fall in love with metal for its speed.
8. Practical tips for more comfortable knitting and avoiding mistakes
- Check the yarn label (recommended needle range and swatch).
- Knit a swatch before your project, especially for garments.
- If the yarn opens while knitting, try a different (blunter) tip or change needle material.
- Rest your hands from time to time; comfort is as important as the result.
- For projects in the round, consider circular needles with a cable that fits the right size.
9. Conclusion and recommendations for balls and needles
Start with a medium-weight (DK/Worsted) yarn and 4–5 mm needles or a crochet hook. Make your swatch, adjust the tension, and prioritize comfort. With these basics, you'll knit with confidence from your first project.