Crochet Equipment:

Crochet hooks are made of steel, bone, plastic or aluminum. Steel crochet hooks range in size from number 00, the largest, to number 14, the smallest. Bone, plastic, and aluminum hooks range in size from B (number 1), the smallest, to K (number 10 and 1/2), the largest.

Below is a list of sizes for bone, plastic and aluminum hooks;
(millimeter sizes are given in parentheses.)

K (7.00)   F (4.00)
J (6.00)   E (3.50)
I (5.50)   D (3.00)
H (5.00)   C (2.50)
G (4.50)   B (2.00)

The following tools will be useful:
  • Metal or wooden ruler
  • Scissors
  • Rustless pins
  • Sewing needle with large eye and some with blunt points
  • Iron and ironing board with pad
  • Cloth or plastic bag to keep work clean
  • Cloths for pressing

Yarn:

     Any type of yarn is suitable for crochet - whether thick or thin, natural or man-made fibers. If you're not absolutely certain that you can get the same gauge as specified in the pattern, then it is wisest to buy the brand of yarn specified in the directions. As in knitting, if you can obtain the same number of stitches and rows to the inch as the directions call for with a different yarn then feel free to use it.
     Buy sufficient amounts of yarn or cotton to complete the garment so that it all comes from the same dye lot. Another dye lot may vary very slightly and cause unwanted stripes in the finished project.
Tip: When working with balls of crochet cotton, use the end from the center of the ball as it flows more smoothly when being worked.

Gauge:

     Gauge is one of the most important factors towards successful work. If you do not get the number of stitches and rows to one inch that are stated in the directions your project cannot have the correct measurements when completed.
     Beginners might appreciate practicing trying to obtain the correct gauge. If it proves too difficult while trying to hold the hook and yarn comfortably, then perhaps a different hook size should be tried. Before starting a project, work a four inch square. If you find you have fewer stitches to the inch, then use a smaller hook; if you find you have too many stitches, then use a larger hook.