TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT

1. RIGID TUNISIAN HOOK

Generally around 30-35cm (12-14in) in length with a hook at one end and a stopper at the other end, this type of hook is the most commonly available. This type of hook is not suitable for projects that require a lot of stitches such as a blanket or shawl.

2. INTERCHANGEABLE HOOK

These hooks are the same length as a regular crochet hook with a fastening device at one end for attaching a cable. This can screw in to the hook or snap on, depending on the manufacturer. You will need to purchase a cable separately (item 3).

3. INTERCHANGEABLE CABLE

These cables are used with interchangeable crochet hooks. They come with a tightening tool and detachable stoppers and can be connected together to make various lengths as required.

4. HOOK WITH FIXED CABLE (NOT SHOWN)

Similar to an interchangeable hook except that the cable is fixed and you are restricted to that length.

5. DOUBLE-ENDED HOOK

Used for working in the round. These come in two different lengths of around 15cm (6in) or 30-35cm (12-14in). Be careful when purchasing a double-ended hook as some are sold with different sized hooks at each end. These are not intended for Tunisian crochet in the round but are sold as versatile regular crochet hooks containing 2 sizes in one hook.

6. DOUBLE-ENDED HOOK CONVERTER

Using two interchangeable hooks in the same size (item 2) and this connector, you can convert your hook into a double-ended hook. Once connected it will measure around 30cm (12in), so can be used for smaller and larger projects.

7. CROCHET HOOK

As long as it doesn’t have a handle and preferably without a thumb grip, you can use a regular crochet hook for Tunisian crochet that requires only a few stitches worked at a time, such as Entrelac. You can use a rubber band to keep your stitches from falling off the end.

8. PINS

Used for pinning out your work when blocking. Make sure they are rust proof so as not to stain your work.

9. BLOCKING BOARD (NOT SHOWN)

Interconnecting foam boards found in toy shops or hardware stores are ideal for using as blocking boards.

10. HOOK AND STITCH GAUGE TOOL

Used for measuring stitch and row counts and checking hook size.

11. WOOL TAPESTRY NEEDLE

Used for weaving in ends and joining pieces together. Best with a large eye and fairly blunt point.

12. YARN BOBBINS

For projects that use several colours at the same time such as intarsia, to keep yarn manageable.

13. STITCH MARKERS

Used to mark stitches such as the start or end of a round, a pattern repeat, stitch positioning or short row.

14. CABLE NEEDLE

Used for holding stitches at the front or back of work when making cables.

15. TAPE MEASURE

Indispensable for checking measurements.

16. SCISSORS

Small sharp scissors for cutting yarn.