Top 10 Best Crochet Kits in the UK 2021 (Wool And the Gang, Knitty Critters and More)

Crochet is the process of creating textiles and products by using a hook to interlace strands of yarn. It's similar to knitting but with a few clear differences – knitting uses two needles and holds the stitches on the needles themselves, whereas crochet uses one, much smaller hook and stitches the loops directly together to create your pattern. 

Many elements are needed for crocheting, such as hooks, needles, yarn, stitch markers, scissors, measuring tapes and patterns, but crocheting kits are great because they contain everything you need to get going. 

Of course, you can buy the elements separately if you know what you're doing, but buying a kit is much more convenient, it's better value for money and it's time-saving, leaving you to get down to the stitching!

In this section, we'll be discussing the different types of crochet kits, the tools you need to have, and what to look out for to make sure it's the right kit for you.

Before you dive headfirst into balls of yarn, you want to think about what type of kit you need. This section will go through the three main categories that will help you narrow down your search for the perfect project. 

Single project kits will contain all the tools, materials and instructions for creating one specific project. These are ideal if you're looking to make a particular thing such as a rainbow-coloured snood or a soft bunny for your child.

The kits are measured out precisely, so you won't have any leftover pieces of yarn, which means no waste! That said, if you want to make multiples of your project, you will have to order more supplies. 

Single project kits usually contain yarn, but some don't, so be sure to check the packaging very carefully before you buy. A good indication of whether it does include it is the price – it will be much more expensive if the yarn is included!

Beginner kits are specifically geared towards people who know zilch about crocheting. They are much the same as single project kits in that they contain everything you need, no more and no less. 

As with single project kits, check that they come with yarn – this is especially important as a beginner as it's challenging to know which is the best sort for your needs. 

These kits will come with really detailed, easy-to-follow instructions, with the best ones containing illustrations to check that your piece looks as it should every step of the way. This is invaluable at the beginning of your crochet journey, so it's always worth looking for. 

Amigurumi is essentially the craft of crocheting stuffed toys. They aren't recommended for complete beginners as they have a few more elements than a simple crochet pattern. Still, you can find some entry-level amigurumi kits, and once you get the hang of a few techniques it shouldn't be too hard! 

Amigurumi consists of crocheting the various parts of the pattern, sewing them together and stuffing the finishing product. The kits are fully inclusive of all of this, including darning needles, stuffing and a step-by-step guide. The best thing about learning to amigurumi is the wide variety of patterns and projects! 

Crochet hooks are one thing that you need to get your head around. A hook is the crochet version of a knitting needle, and is your primary tool for creating your masterpieces! Essentially, the hook is used to pull the yarn through the pattern, weaving it into place.

If you aren't sure whether your kit is for a beginner or a seasoned crocheter, take a look at the hook, as some are much easier to use than others. 

There is a vast range of hooks from plastic to wood, thick to thin, and all seasoned crocheters have their preference. However, beginners are advised to use metal or aluminium hooks. This is because when you first start to crochet, your hook will most likely receive quite a bit of strain and tension before you're able to hone your technique, so you'll need something durable. 

Secondly, metal hooks are usually the cheapest option, so they are often included in a kit for beginners. There's no point forking out a small fortune for a hobby that you're not even sure you like yet! But if you stick with it, metal is an all-rounder, suitable for a wide range of projects.

As well as the material, it would also help if you looked at the width of the hook. For a beginner, the recommended size is between 4 mm and 5 mm. This is a medium-size which is just big enough that it's still comfortable to hold, but small enough that the process isn't too fiddly.

While aluminium hooks are excellent for beginners, crochet pros will probably want to branch out into new territories. It may be a good all-rounder that is comfortable to use, but metal isn't the best choice for more intricate designs. Depending on the use for your hook, there are a few things to look out for. 

Firstly, there's the shape. Flat handles allow for a more comfortable grip and extra precision which is ideal if you're working on an intricate design filled with complicated stitches. If you've got your technique down to a tee, lightweight hooks are much easier to work with.

If you work on large projects, you'll want a hook that's easy on the hands – something lightweight and soft such as plastic, and preferably with a soft thumb grip to help you hold your position in place for a while longer.

The other popular option is wood. The best wooden hooks are usually made from bamboo and have a certain amount of flexibility to them, which is excellent if you dislike the rigidity of metal or plastic. That said, bamboo might not allow you the same level of strength as the others, but it all comes down to personal preference.

Long gone are the days of crochet only being an acceptable hobby for grandmas, these days everyone's having a go! This means you'll be able to choose from small designs that take just a few hours to complete to the intricate, complicated and oh-so-satisfying marathons of projects. Here's a quick look at the most popular categories.

Blankets, throws and quilts are wonderful crochet projects to get stuck into. Being large square pieces of intertwined yarn, the shape of them makes them excellent projects for beginners. That said, there is such a wide range of designs that the patterns can be as straightforward or as complicated as you'd like.

Dishcloths are an excellent choice if you want something simple, and there are lots of starter kits to choose from. If you're looking for more of a challenge, try a patchwork quilt with pretty designs on each square. These look lovely draped over a bed, a sofa or your lap, and add a cosy feel to your home.

Crochet isn't just for square pieces, though! Art projects, wall hangings and decorations are excellent for adding a bit of life and homemade charm to a dull space. From multicoloured wall hangings to stuffed acorns and pinecones for a winter table; there's a whole range of patterns to choose from. 

Being decorative, the designs tend to be a little more complicated than a square project such as a towel, rug or blanket, but you can still find small projects suitable for beginners if you would like to have a go. 

If you're new to crochet, granny square scarves are an excellent way to begin. This term refers to a simple square shape of a certain pattern that allows you to hone your technique before moving on to more complicated designs. 

Once you've mastered the square, you can move on to things like jumpers, cardigans and tops – perfect for those wanting to make more sustainable fashion choices. There are even some excellent kits for making cute little slippers to keep those tootsies warm over winter, and best of all, they only take a few hours to make!

Amigurumi opens up a whole new world of crocheting when you're ready, and they are excellent projects to undertake if you have small children. Instead of spending a fortune on small stuffed toys for cuddle time, make them yourself! 

They also mean more when your hands created them, and they can be kept, passed on, handed down or given as a gift, which makes them even more special. The options here are endless, from traditional bears to baby racoons, bunnies and foxes. Make a whole family if you like! 

These aren't always needed depending on your project, but it's a good idea to check out the contents before you purchase. You'll obviously want the hooks, and yarn if it includes them, but there are also a few other handy bits to look out for. 

• A tapestry needle (or a yarn or darning needle, they are all the same thing!): this is required when your pattern contains separate sections of crochet that need to be stitched together. They are also used for weaving the ends of the yarn through the piece, so you don't have any loose strands.

• Stitch markers: these are especially good for beginners. They look a little like plastic safety pins and are used to help you keep track of the stitches as you go, which is invaluable for a beginner. 

• Measuring tape: a crucial item for any project! Though you can use your own, a kit gets bonus points if it includes one. Measuring tapes are used to gauge the number of stitches you need per inch. As everyone crotches differently with different hooks, yarn and strains, measuring ensures your project looks as close as possible to the pattern. 

Now that you're educated on all the ins and outs as well as the options and designs available for crochet kits, let's dive into our top 10 recommendations! 

Feeling inspired to get creative? Whether you're looking for new ways to occupy the family on a wet-weather weekend, a unique activity for a party or a thoughtful gift idea, DIY crafts are a fantastic shout. Here are three more kit ideas to get stuck into! 

We hope you enjoyed our article on the best crochet kits in the UK. Whether you want to have a go at making your own clothes or something more artistic, hopefully we've sparked your creative urges to get stitching, hooking and making lots of pretty things to fill your home with.

Author: Roxy Pratley