My latest hook choice - Daiso hooks!

Note: Blogger was being REALLY annoying while I was writing up this post and wouldn't allow me to add any pictures anywhere. I know it's not the same, but I've still included the links to the photos in the post! I'll try to solve this issue ASAP, but for now I'm really sorry for this - I know it's not the same as having the photos directly here! (or maybe it's not a legit issue, and it's just that I have rubbishy IT skills XD) 

Hey guys! 

Up till a few weeks ago, I didn't pay much attention to the hooks I was using for amigurumi. However, since my frequent stalls (and school holidays) have got me whipping up as many little toys as possible, my poor little hook soon became insufficient to cope with the workload. So I switched sizes a couple of times, and here's how it unfolded. 

The hook was a 3.5mm size - this was the very first size I started out with for crocheting amigurumi with DK - double knit - yarn (8ply). I was pretty happy with my projects using it and continued to use it as my favourite hook for churning out DK crochet projects. Being the novice I was, I blissfully imagined I was doing alright. 

Then I read a couple of posts about how your hook shouldn't be too large for amigurumi because it causes gaps between the stitches (resulting in a very unprofessional look as all the stuffing peeks through!). So I switched to a smaller 2.75mm hook to give it a shot for a while. However, I found I was still "forcing" my way through each stitch and that the gaps in my completed amigurumi were still apparent. So I went a size down to a 2.5mm hook. This worked and my amigurumi turned out much better, but I soon had another problem. 

These 3 hooks were steel crochet hooks - about the most basic type you can get in craft stores or dollar shops, apart from plastic hooks. I personally wouldn't recommend either of these if you plan on crocheting as a full-on hobby or something you're gonna stick with because they don't provide ANY support for your fingers and hand and you'll soon be worn out with the blisters, pain and stiffness. Trust me, I've been there and I don't ever want to go back there! A painful hand = no comfort = no happiness in crochet any more.

So because of the blisters and discomfort I had to deal with, to the point where I had to keep a band-aid on my finger, I went hunting through bloggers' recommendations for good ergonomic hooks. And I realised that Tulip and Clover hooks were among the best and most recommended - but their costs went through the roof! For a pack of 10 hooks it averaged about $90-$100 USD - so imagine the cost in AUD. Oh well, guess I'd better put them on my Christmas wishlist or start saving. 

But the very next weekend, I discovered a hidden treasure while shopping. I was in Daiso looking for little appliques to embellish my dolls - by the way, I found a super cute pack of mini roses - like these ones that Jade from Sweet Softies got! 

But I also found something else - a rubber/silicon ergonomic 2.5mm crochet hook! It was exactly what I needed - but for so much less (I think I only paid $3.30 as opposed to $15 for one hook!). this photo provides a clear example of what it looks like. I'd definitely recommend it. 

I've been using it now for a couple of weeks and I have to say, it's really amazing to have a good crochet hook that a) makes your work look neat and polished, and b) gives your hand a wonderful experience, letting you enjoy crocheting without cramps and sore spots! I hope this hook will last me as long, if not longer, than all my previous babies :) 

Since the chances of me getting Tulip/Clover hooks aren't that large ATM (for price/convenience reasons as they have to be shipped from Japan or the US) - I'm sticking to Daiso's little beauties for now and will definitely try picking up a couple more sizes next time (they were all out of stock!). 

Got any questions about the hooks I've used, or any suggestions/tips? Drop a comment or email me at littlespools.byash@gmail.com! 

Thank you for reading, and have a wonderful day :) 

Ashlyne :)