Discover the best crochet hooks to use as we settle the age-old debate over the inline vs. tapered crochet hook. The answer may surprise you! Crocheters all have their preferences when it comes to which hook feels better. Learn why some people prefer one hook over the other and, more importantly, how to choose the right crochet hook for you.

Inline vs. Tapered Crochet Hooks: What’s the Difference?

I’m pretty sure the inline vs. tapered crochet hook debate has been going on in the crochet world since both hook styles appeared. If you delve into the discussion, you’ll find some pretty heated arguments for and against each style. Both have very loyal followers.

This hook holds the yarn better! This one puts less stress on your wrist! This hook helps you maintain consistent tension!

Someone new to crochet could go crazy reading all the pro-and-con lists before choosing a hook.

But I’m going to end this argument once and for all by letting every new crochet artist in on the best-kept secret about hook style: it actually doesn’t matter which one you use.

Learning Crochet Is About Muscle Memory

Learning crochet really doesn’t have much to do with buying the perfect hook. Instead, it has much more to do with muscle memory.

The reason you feel so awkward when you start is quite simple: your hands aren’t used to the movements yet. No matter which hook you choose, when you make your very first row of single crochet, you’re going to feel like a monkey playing with a stick. However, keep working and you’ll find that, the moment your hand “memorizes” the motion, your tension becomes more consistent, your stitches look neater, and your finished projects start to look amazing.

It’s no coincidence that people who advocate so strongly for inline or tapered hooks often learned to crochet with one of those hook styles. Of course, the first hook they picked up and used through those early growing pains of muscle memory is going to feel like the “best” one.

Your hand will adapt to your tools. Not the other way around.

So Which Crochet Hook Should You Choose?

To answer that question, I’m going to digress a bit and talk about stitch markers.

There was a point in my crochet life when you couldn’t pay me to use a stitch marker. I had different colored pieces of yarn, safety pins, and even those plain little rings at the ready, but I simply wouldn’t use them. I didn’t want to break my rhythm, and I convinced myself that I could remember where the stitch marker should go.

Well, you can guess what happened next, right?

Every single project slanted the wrong way, didn’t fit, or ended up needing a complete frog because it was so hopelessly messed up. Still, I wouldn’t use stitch markers. THIS time I’ll just remember, I told myself. THIS time I won’t NEED to mark the stitch.

Then one day, I was reading a crochet discussion online about something totally unrelated when a post really struck me. Loosely paraphrased, she said, “You’ll want to make beautiful things if you use beautiful tools.”

I decided to test her theory with my aversion to stitch markers. So, I ditched all my plain or homemade stitch markers and searched online for some beautiful crystal charm stitch markers.

Beautiful Crochet Tools Can Make a Difference

The change in my crocheting was immediate.

I went from avoiding stitch markers like the plague to seeking out patterns specifically so I could use them. Something about seeing those gorgeous crystals dangling delicately from my yarn warmed my heart. Placing them became a joy instead of a chore.

Now, let’s return to the question of which crochet hook you should use.

And I’ll answer that question now in the simplest way I can: pick the hook that you find most aesthetically pleasing. After all, you’ll want to make beautiful things if you use beautiful tools.

Inline vs. Tapered Crochet Hook: Which Is Better?

When you compare an inline crochet hook with a tapered crochet hook, you’ll notice differences in the shape of the hook head and throat. However, those differences don’t automatically make one style better than the other.

Some crocheters love the defined shape of an inline hook because it can help them control their stitches. Others prefer the smooth, gradually tapered shape of a tapered hook because it feels more natural as they work.

Ultimately, comfort matters more than choosing the “correct” style. The hook that feels comfortable in your hand can help you enjoy crocheting and develop a consistent rhythm.

How to Find the Right Crochet Hook for You

If you’re still unsure which crochet hook to choose, don’t overthink it. Start with a hook size that matches your pattern and then experiment with different hook styles.

Pay attention to how the hook feels in your hand. Does it glide smoothly through your stitches? Can you hold it comfortably for a long period? Does it help you maintain the tension you want?

These details matter because you’ll spend plenty of time with your crochet hook. A tool that feels good in your hand can make your crochet sessions more enjoyable.

And remember: you don’t have to commit to one hook style forever. You might prefer inline hooks for one type of project and tapered hooks for another.

Why Muscle Memory Matters More Than Hook Style

When you’re learning crochet, your hands need time to learn the movements. At first, holding the yarn and hook together can feel awkward. However, regular practice gradually makes those movements feel natural.

As your muscle memory develops, you’ll find it easier to control your hook, maintain even tension, and create consistent stitches. At that point, the differences between inline and tapered hooks may matter much less than they did when you started.

That’s why I wouldn’t spend too much time worrying about finding the “perfect” crochet hook. Pick one you like, practice with it, and give your hands time to learn.

Frequently Asked Questions About Crochet Hooks

What is the difference between an inline and tapered crochet hook?

An inline crochet hook has a more defined throat, and the hook head generally lines up with the shaft. A tapered crochet hook has a more gradually sloping throat. Both styles work well, so your choice often comes down to comfort and personal preference.

Are inline crochet hooks better than tapered hooks?

Neither style is automatically better. Some crocheters prefer inline hooks, while others find tapered hooks more comfortable. The best crochet hook is the one that feels natural in your hand and helps you maintain comfortable, consistent tension.

Are tapered crochet hooks easier for beginners?

They can be, but there isn’t one hook style that works best for every beginner. The most important thing is to practice regularly and give your hands time to develop muscle memory.

Do crochet hooks affect tension?

Your crochet hook can influence how your stitches feel and how easily you maintain tension. However, your hand position, yarn control, and practice also play important roles. Experiment with different hooks to find the combination that feels most comfortable.

How do I choose the best crochet hook?

Start with the hook size recommended by your pattern, then consider the hook’s shape, material, grip, and overall comfort. If you’re deciding between an inline and tapered crochet hook, try both styles and see which one feels better in your hand.

Can changing crochet hooks improve my crocheting?

Yes. A different hook may feel more comfortable, make it easier to control your yarn, or help you maintain a more consistent rhythm. However, practice remains the most important part of developing your crochet skills.

Do I need an expensive crochet hook to learn crochet?

No. You don’t need an expensive crochet hook to learn how to crochet. A comfortable, appropriately sized hook can work perfectly well while you’re developing your skills and muscle memory.

Should beginners use inline or tapered crochet hooks?

Beginners can use either style. Rather than worrying about which hook style is “best,” choose one that feels comfortable and allows you to practice consistently.