Here are five tips to help you out if you’re new to thread crochet:

Know Your Numbers

The most important difference between thread crochet and regular crochet is that the numbers for thread and hook size are different than yarn. The key thing to remember is that “smaller is bigger”. What this means is that a lower number means a bigger (thicker) thread and it also means a larger crochet hook. So a size 3 thread is much thicker than a size 30 thread and a hook size 9 is slightly larger than a hook size 10. If you’re new to thread crochet, start with a size 3 or 5 thread and a size 00 or another larger-headed crochet hook.

Ergonomics Are Worth It

Thread crochet requires that you hold your hook tightly and control your tension carefully. This can be harder on the body than working with larger hooks and looser yarns. Thread crochet hooks are thinner, which exacerbates the problem. That’s why it’s worth it to invest in ergonomic crochet hooks with thicker handles. Bamboo-handled hooks are one option. Another choice is to create your own polymer clay hook handles for your thread crochet hooks.

Be Easy on Your Eyes

You also want to avoid eye strain when working with the thinner threads of this type of crochet. Make sure that you work in good lighting. You might want to start by working with light and bright threads since you have to strain more to see your stitches with darker threads. Be sure to take a lot of breaks to rest your eyes.

Prevent the Twist

Crochet thread tends to twist more while you’re working than regular yarn does. It helps to work with thread that is on a cone. It also helps to hold your work slightly more loosely although this can affect the outcome of your project; you need to strike a balance between good working tension and looseness for de-twisting. Recommended suggestions for smaller projects include using a stitch holder in the loop on your hook, allowing the piece to untwist. You can also use a yarn holder.

Practice Makes Perfect

Thread crochet really is one of the niche crochet techniques that gets a lot easier as you practice it. It’s the same as regular crochet in terms of the basics but you have to get the hang of holding the yarn right and working with smaller crochet hooks. A little practice really will make it so much simpler and enjoyable,