I recently started crocheting and have a set of aluminum hooks. I find that after a while my hands start to hurt or just not comfortable.
Now I have knit and a knitter once told me that bamboo knitting needles are superior to the aluminum. I invested in a circular pair for a project that I was doing and really liked them.
I was curious as to whether the bamboo crochet hooks are worth the investment. Can anyone speak from experience?
I decided to buy the bamboo hook and it was well worth the $2.50. I don't notice the fatigue anymore.
I use the metal ones as well. I tend to find if I work at a table which keeps my arm better supported I do not feel that as much/
I have also heard that the wood are bettter.
hi bd-
I like the aluminum hooks with the 'flatter' style hook (if that makes sense).
For knitting, I prefer bamboo...but am slowly replacing my aluminum ones one project at a time...(they are pricey!)
I have seen on some sites rubber handles that can be slipped over hooks or needles...I have not tried them yet...but if my arthritis (just one hand...my crochet hand naturally) continues to bother me...I may try them!
Best luck!
(Happy Hooking!!! lol)
michele/cat
It sounds like it's more your technique and grip on the hook rather than the type of hook you are using. Try taking breaks to stretch your hands and fingers and see if that helps. I'm a knitter and find that if I knit too long my hands hurt. Frequent stretching breaks really help a lot.
I personally just don't like the bamboo hooks because I'm so used to steel hooks. I sit with my work on top of a pillow in my lap with my legs up to be comfortable...and yup, sometimes my fingers go literally numb and cold from discomfort. :) Ah, the price of crafting!!
It may just be that you are gripping the hooks too tightly. Try rolling your wrists every now and then and think about grabbing them more loosely. There is also a risk with crocheting and knitting to get tendinitis of the elbow or wrist from the repeated motion and tension. My mom is an avid knitter (matching dresses for us girls, sweaters and socks for the boys, she would unravel a whole weeks worth of work if she did not like the design that she created in her head, never worked from a pattern) and had to stop occasionally and give her joints and muscles a break. So enjoy but relax and as with everything, do not overindulge.
PS: all her supplies are metal, not wood.
I also knit (have all my life) and use different needles depending on what I'm doing. Personally I don't like the bamboo needles for MOST applications. I also crochet some. I did find a interchangeable set from Provo Craft at Walmart that seems to be easier to hold. I'll try to find a link to it because I don't think it's discontinued, just our Walmart isn't carrying it anymore.
I think you will need to experiment to see what works best for you. I also agree with Teenmom that you may be gripping too tightly. When I crochet I use my right hand a lot and my wrist does tire and get sore. I'd suggest googling to see if there are other ways to hold the yarn.
ETA: Links
http://www.provocraft.com/products/detail.php?cl=knifty%2...
I know you didn't mention this specifically but I saw an article on preventing carpal tunnel syndrome and crocheting
http://www.leisurearts.com/Articles/5220-avoiding-carpal-...
