My Favorite Things
After years of designing patterns for Modernly Mabel (and way too many late-night crochet sessions), I’ve built up a collection of tools I truly love. I’ve tested a lot of hooks, yarns, and gadgets, some amazing, some… not so much. But these? These are the ones that have earned a permanent spot in my project bag.
You’ll find everything from the hooks that save my wrists to the scissors I can’t live without. I’ve linked each product below so you can check them out easily (some are affiliate links, which just means I may earn a small commission if you purchase — at no extra cost to you).
Yarn
Obviously - the best tool! If you’re going to shop, shop below at my affiliate links, it helps me keep this site ad-free!
Lion Brand Roving Origins Wool Yarn - perfect for the Thneed Sweater Scarf
LoveCrafts Yarn - so many options & wallet-friendly
Prym crochet hooks are one of my favorite finds for smooth, comfortable stitching. They have a lightweight, ergonomic design that makes long crochet sessions so much easier on your hands, and the yarn glides effortlessly over the hook. What I love most is that you can grab a single hook to try out your favorite size, or go all in and get the convenient four-pack — perfect if you like having multiple projects going at once (guilty!).
These needles are the best. They’re super lightweight, surprisingly smooth, and make me feel like a fast knitter even when I’m absolutely not. Stitches slide nicely, but not in that “oops, there goes my whole row” way. Since they’re interchangeable circulars, you can swap out different cable lengths, which I love because one minute I’m knitting a tiny hat and the next I’m accidentally starting a massive blanket.
Are they fancy? No. Do they get the job done and make knitting feel fun and easy? A very enthusiastic yes. If you want metal needles that won’t fight you, or your bank account, these are a great little workhorse set.
At first, I thought a yarn winder was unnecessary and lazy, I’ve got hands and I can wind it, right? I was wrong. Oh, so wrong. The electric function works perfectly, with the knob on the side to adjust the speed, and it slows down if it senses a snag on the yarn. The yarn cakes perfectly, though I don’t think it would work well for bulky+ yarn. I’m so excited to be able to organize my stash!
Stitch markers are tiny, but oh so powerful — and this set of 500 is basically a lifesaver for any crocheter or knitter. They’re sturdy, easy to open and close, and won’t slip off mid-round. And with 150 of them, you can lose half of them in your couch or your dog’s fur and still have more than enough left to finish your projects. Honestly, it’s like they knew we’re a little clumsy.
Honorable Mentions
Tapestry Needles - and a lovely storage case for them!
Measuring Tape - Cute pack of 3
These are my go-to tools that make crocheting and knitting feel smoother, easier, and just plain more fun. Every one of them has earned its spot in my studio and helped bring Modernly Mabel designs to life.
If you end up trying any of these, I’d love to hear what you think — or tell me about your favorite tools! Sharing what we love is one of the best parts of being in the fiber community.
Some of the links above are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you decide to purchase through them (at no extra cost to you). Thank you for supporting Modernly Mabel — it helps me keep creating new patterns and tutorials for you.
