In the stressful world we live in, it’s important to take time out for me time, a time to relax and put ourselves first. Some people find exercising or going to the gym therapeutic, while others enjoy more creative ways to destress. These include calligraphy, knitting, crocheting, cross-stitch, painting, and other artful ways we can express ourselves. Today, we’re exploring some of the best rated knitting and crocheting essentials you’ll find in the market today. After all, the quality of your artwork also depends on the quality of the materials used. Here are the top recommended products for knitting and crocheting, according to crafting enthusiasts.
1. Tulip Etimo Premium Gold Crochet Hooks Set
This elegant set of crochet hooks are for both long-time crochet crafters and those who are looking to begin the hobby. It includes 8 crochet hooks, namely D-3, E-4, F-5, G-6, 7, H-8, I-9, J-10, 2 yarn needles, tulip scissors, ruler, and a handy case that keeps your supplies organized. These are crafted using aluminum for durability. Rated 4.8 stars at Bluprint. Members get an additional 25% off so sign up for Bluprint today.
Promising review: “I had purchased a couple of the padded handled crochet hooks previously. They made a huge difference in the pain in my wrist. But I never seemed to have the size I needed. When I saw this set, I was very excited. The price was even reasonable. I have completed several projects and am working on one now. I love the case and the added items especially the scissors. I am thrilled with the set.” Susan
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2. Knit Picks Yarn Ball Winder
If you’re an avid crochet or knitting crafter, this is a must-have in your kit. It conveniently transforms hanks or skeins into compact center-pull balls that sit nicely when you knit or crochet. It has a clamp that secures the ball winder to the table when you wind skeins up to 100 grams or 3.5 ounces. It also has a removable spindle and folding yarn guide arm that makes it compact for storage but easy to assemble. This best seller is rated 4.2 out of 5 stars on Amazon.
Promising review: “This makes knitting a breeze! I know my yarn is untangled and center pulled just how I like it. I don’t have to worry about untangling halfway through a project.” Jasmin Urbina
3. KnitIQ Blocking Mats for Knitting
Knitting has never been this easy with the KnitIQ blocking mats, which are interlocking boards that can be put together and stays in place for any type of knitting project. It features grid lines and comes with 100 T-pins that lets you precisely block your work for more precision every time. It is made of durable dense foam that’s thicker than other brands. Its durable, lightweight material is 0.75″ thick, making it easy to store and retrieve every time. These blocking sets come with a reusable storage bag with a handle for easy storage and portability. Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars on Amazon.
Promising review: “I have been crocheting and knitting for a long time and used to hate blocking my finished pieces—not any more! KnitIQ has a great set of blocking mats (9 gridded—very important!—mats and box of T pins). They come nicely packaged in a zipped bag—the mats are thick and go together perfectly. If you spend any time on a crocheted or knitted project, you owe it to yourself and your hard work to purchase a set of these mats—sometimes the end result of a project is only as good as the tools you use.” Cynthia Skelton
4. Phil Basin & Soak Wash Kit
Part of the creative process is keeping your creations looking fresh and vibrant, especially when it comes to knits. This Phil Basin and Soak Wash Kit lets you preserve your valuable pieces of art and makes it easy to maintain. This kit is all you’ll ever need to launder your blocked and knitted creations to keep them looking fresh, clean, and vibrant! It includes a laundering and soaking solution for all your delicate creations and a flexible basin that’s perfectly convenient for washing, soaking, or dyeing, as well as a gentle wash soap so you can hand wash your pieces. Also includes a 4 pack sample of Aquae, Celebration, Scentless, and Lacey fragrances and a 12oz bottle of the Lacey fragrance. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars at Bluprint. Additional discounts await those who sign up to become a Bluprint member today.
Promising review: “I bought this kit for my sister, who is a knitter, and decided to buy one for myself, as well! The basin itself is wonderfully roomy, yet flexible and light, so I can tote it to whichever room I’m going to be washing or blocking my knitted pieces. I used it for an adult sweater—there was room to spare! It’s big enough to hold a baby blanket, I believe! As for the Soak wash, I liked receiving a variety of different scents, as well as the unscented variety. I’m going to enjoy trying this out with the many projects I’m currently working on–it’s one more means of motivation to get my pieces finished!” Joan Biese
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5. Craftsy Bamboo Circular Knitting Needles
If you enjoy knitting larger, heavier projects such as shawls and blankets (perfect for the Fall season!), these knitting needles are for you. These bamboo circular knitting needles feature a warm and earthy feel thanks to its natural bamboo material, providing a smooth finish that doesn’t snag on your yarn. Rated 4.2 out of 5 stars at Bluprint. Members get an additional 24% off if you sign up today.
Promising review: “I love these circular needles. I didn’t have to do anything to the cord before I started knitting, I was just able to start right in on my project. Will be purchasing more.” Briash19
More Top Rated Knitting and Crocheting Essentials
1. BeCraftee Best Crochet Hook Set with Ergonomic Handles
Especially designed for hands that are prone to pain, arthritis, carpal tunnel, and cramping, this set of ergonomic crochet hooks are a must-have for crafters young and old. It features soft rubber handles that effectively eliminate hand motion problems, as well as its cushioned handle and lightweight crochet needles that add less pressure on your hands so you don’t feel any discomfort. This set is perfect for crafters that love to travel, as it comes with a handy case that keeps all 31 tools inside, including a stitch marker, knitting markers and sewing needles. The tips are crafted using aluminum for durability. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars on Amazon.
Promising review: “With arthritis in my thumbs, crocheting was impossible because of the pain. I would be able to work for maybe 5 minutes. Now I am able to work for about an hour at a time so I can get something made and finally finish projects that have been sitting in my drawer. Thank you!” Amazon Customer
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2. Bernat Blanket Yarn, Silver Steel
For serious crafters, the Bernat Blanket Yarn is the go-to for creating gorgeous decor projects for your home and family. It is a luxurious, soft and cozy chenille-style yarn that is used to create blankets, crochet blankets, and other projects. It features a super bulky weight that stitches up quickly, making it great material for afghans and blankets. It’s also conveniently machine washable and dryable. Comes in an array of beautiful colors that will compliment your home decor. Bernat Blanket Yarn has super bulky 6 gauge. The recommended knitting needle for this yarn is 8 sc and 13 rows, 8 mm (U.S. 11), while the recommended crochet hook is 7 sc and 8 rows, 8 mm (U.S. L/11). Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars on Amazon.
Promising review: “Perfect for crocheting the softest blanket ever! This yarn is chunky so project works up fairly fast. The thickness is maybe just a little over 1/2 cm. It makes a very plush blanket that literally feels as soft as cotton. After washing and drying the fibers in the blanket shrink a bit becoming a little more dense but blanket still retains most of its softness. I use this yarn for making more of my heavier fall/ winter blankets.” Amazon Customer
3. Lacis Ball Winder and Umbrella Swift
Creating your own center-pull balls has never been this easier, thanks to the Lacis Ball Winder and Umbrella Swift. This set includes a ball winder, a hand operated yarn winder designed for skeins up to 4 oz.. It comes with an integral 1.5″ table clamp and does not require any cones ot tubes to operate. You’ll also get a Metal Umbrella Swift that is smooth-operating and features flexible covered ribs for the finest of threads. It has a one hand adjustment for skeins up to 60″, integral handle that you can use as a winder, and adjustable table clamp that lets you use it vertically, horizontally, or at an angle. Lastly, you’ll also get a Wood Umbrella Swift that’s crafted from finely finished birch. It can support skeins up to 100″. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars at Bluprint. Sign up today to get an additional 25% off and even more discounts.
Promising review: “I liked this product so much, purchased Umbrella and winder as a birthday gift for daughter. Needless to say, she was ecstatic! Pairs beautifully with ball winder sold at the Craftsy online store.” Kattididit
4. Craftsy Bamboo Knitting Needles
For those who want a lighter weight option for knitting needles, go for the Craftsy Bamboo Knitting Needles that are made of natural bamboo that provides a warm and earthy feel compared to metal or aluminum needles. These bamboo knitting needles are smooth to the touch, ensuring that your yarn won’t snag. Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars at Bluprint. Become a member and enjoy an additional 24% off on this item.
Promising review: “I’m a knitter that switched from metal to bamboo needles many years ago and never went back to metal. Thought I would try these particular ones and I am very satisfied with them.” Janro
5. Clover Locking Stitch Markers
Knit easier with these Clover Locking Stitch Markers that effectively hooks into your preferred stitch and fastens safely so you can enjoy knitting without slipping. Comes in a 12 count or 20 count pack, featuring brilliant colors that makes them easy to find. Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars at Bluprint. Enjoy 25% off when you sign up today.
Promising review: “These rubbery little pins are the best markers I’ve come across. They can be pinned wherever needed without tugging, pulling or snagging your projects. A lightweight, flexible, cutesy but practical addition to your knitting bag.” Gail Ann
Don’t miss out on more great ideas in the links from our archive below.
Craftsy Online Courses: Learn Your Way
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