The VarieHook Crochet Hook is a new, patent-pending invention by Dee Johnson - a crochet hook with a revolutionary design. This clever tool has some surprising uses - read on to see more, and enter to win your own VarieHook Crochet Hook and accompanying stitch dictionary!
Disclaimer: I was given some of the featured items for review; all opinions are my own. This post includes affiliate links.
What Is the VarieHook Crochet Hook
A New Kind of Crochet Hook
Currently only available in one size (more to come!), the VarieHook's 5.5mm hook actually includes 3 shaft sizes - 5.5mm, 7mm, and 8.5mm. This allows you to make stitches of different sizes without changing hooks.
There are free patterns designed specifically for use with this hook, though you can use it with standard patterns as well. There is also a stitch dictionary designed for this hook.
And there are YouTube videos showing how to use it!
Skeptical? So Was I!
So why would you want to change crochet hook sizes mid-row? Or several times per row? I really didn't get it, until I played with the hook and started reading the stitch dictionary. After 15 minutes, I had to say, "Ok, I get it now!"
I'll let them explain it in their words:
"Many crochet patterns include oversized stitches that are taller than the base stitches in a row, or include extended stitches that stretch across more than one row. Without VarieHook, the crocheter has to compensate by making some stitches "looser" or by intentionally pulling up a long loop. Except for experts, this is tedious and stressful to do because the stitches seldom come out the same, resulting in lumpy, uneven fabric. By measuring with VarieHook, oversized stitches are identical each time. Nonexperts can expect to get uniform results in less time than using a standard crochet hook. Difficult stitches that wrap or knot on the shaft are easier for all skill levels!" CLICK HERE for the full instructions!
My Experience
Real life examples are what did it for me, and one that jumped out right away is afghan squares! Every year I crochet 24 squares for the MooglyCAL, and there are always a few that bulge out bigger on the sides. The corners need to be pulled out to match during blocking, and sometimes that works better than others. It can even be an issue in regular granny squares.
But with the VarieHook Crochet Hook, you can make the stitches on the ends taller, and the ones in the middle shorter, evening out that final round. And this applies to borders too - think about all those slightly wobbly borders. Now you can adjust each stitch as needed, to create that really straight edging.
And one example that VarieHook shows are shells. With this hook, you can make the shell straight across the top, opening up new design possibilities!
Anywhere you might have needed to adjust your tension manually, you can do with the VarieHook, and get more even results. For instance, many patterns may ask you to "chain loosely" or "pull a loop up a bit higher." So this hook allows you to just bump up higher on the shaft, and still keep them all the same and even.
In Summary
Overall, I found the VarieHook Crochet Hook to be quite the surprise! I would like to see it in more sizes, and am glad to see they are planning on that soon - and are asking for feedback! While it makes sense that it's made of plastic right now, I also look forward to when they are able to make them in aluminum - and I appreciate their commitment to USA manufacturing.
For those who crochet with DK and worsted-weight yarns, I think this is an interesting and handy addition to your hook collection. It's like a little secret in your back pocket!
You can follow along with VarieHook on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube!
Get Your Own VarieHook Crochet Hook Today!
The VarieHook Crochet Hook and PDF Stitch Dictionary are available on VarieHook.com or you can purchase the Hook on Amazon and the Paperback Book on Amazon!
The VarieHook Crochet Hook and Stitch Dictionary Giveaway
This giveaway is open to US addresses only. The giveaway ends February 20, 2023, at 12:15am Central US time. To enter, use the Rafflecopter form below. Only the email option is mandatory – all other tasks are optional, for bonus entries only.
FOUR winners will receive the VarieHook Crochet Hook and VarieHook Stitch Dictionary, courtesy of VarieHook. They will be notified by email.
If the form below does not load properly for you, please CLICK HERE to enter this giveaway!
GOOD LUCK ALL!
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Carri B. says
That hook looks really interesting! I’m thinking it would be a great addition to the collection of hooks I already have. I’m glad she has YouTube tutorials as it always makes more sense to see it in action!
Marilyn says
What an interesting hook. Honestly, I'm not sure I'd like it, but you never know until you give it a 'spin around the block.' Thanks for the opportunity.
Tamara Kelly says
It's definitely different, and one you have to experience for yourself!
Myrna Vicente says
Sure would like to give it a try in using this special hook.
LADNEA says
I think this is genius! I also think this may help me a LOT!
I am right handed and have a plate in my hand like an overlay of the whole hand and screws in my wrist. Yes the right hand and I have found it difficult AND tiring-like pulling when I have to stretch my fingers- thank goodness they are long but I still think this is going to be a big help to me and others!
Thank you Variehook!
Laura Samuelson says
Interesting concept… would love to give it a try!