How to Hold Your Hook

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The two most popular ways to hold a crochet hook are the Knife Grip and the Pencil Grip. Neither is "better"—it simply depends on what feels most natural and comfortable for your hands. 

Primary Hook Grips

1. The Knife Grip (Overhand)

This is the most common method and feels similar to holding a dinner knife to cut food. [2, 4]
  • How to do it: Grasp the hook with your palm facing down.
  • Finger placement: Your thumb and middle finger pinch the "thumb rest" (the flat part of the hook).
  • The index finger: Usually rests along the top of the hook to provide stability and guide the yarn.
  • Best for: Larger hooks or when you need more power for tighter stitches. [6, 7, 8, 9, 10]

2. The Pencil Grip (Underhand)

This method feels more like writing with a pen or pencil. [11]
  • How to do it: Hold the hook between your thumb and index finger, with the handle resting on the side of your hand.
  • Finger placement: Your thumb and index finger grip the flat section of the hook, while your middle finger sits underneath for support.
  • Best for: Smaller, delicate projects or people used to fine-motor writing movements. [2, 7, 11, 12, 13]

Alternative Grips

While the "Big Two" are standard, some crocheters use these variations for better ergonomics: [14, 15]
  • The Saber Grip: Similar to the knife grip but your fingers curl entirely around the handle, using more wrist movement.
  • The Claw Grip: Placing all five fingertips on the hook, rolling it beneath them to maneuver.
  • Modified Knife: Holding it like a knife but extending the index finger further down toward the head for maximum control. [4, 10, 16]
Watch these tutorials to see how different grips look in action and find which one feels right for you:

💡 Quick Tips for Comfort

  • Don't Grip Too Hard: A "death grip" will cause hand fatigue and uneven tension.
  • Try Ergonomic Hooks: If you experience pain, use hooks with soft, padded handles like those from Clover or Tulip.
  • Switch It Up: Some crocheters switch grips between projects to rest different muscle groups. [8, 17, 18, 19, 20]
If you want to get started with your first project, would you like to:
  • Learn how to hold the yarn for perfect tension?
  • See how to make a slip knot?
  • Follow a guide for your first chain stitch?
 

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