Ever bought a crochet gadget that looked amazing online… and then immediately wondered why you spent your money? Yeah. Same.
At liptitesyncrochet.com, Elise bravely volunteered as tribute and bought nine crochet gadgets from the internet—because someone had to do it.
Spoiler alert: 5 of them were total flops (even with good reviews… don’t ask me why), and 4 were genuine wins she’d happily recommend.
Her mission? Save your time, your money, and your sanity. Let’s break it all down—starting with the duds so we can end on a happy note.
Contents
🚨 Crochet Gadget Flops (Learn From These Mistakes)
1. Prim Big Sully Yarn Holder
Rating: ⭐⭐ (2/5)
On paper, this thing sounds fancy. It holds two skeins of yarn, keeps colors separated for colorwork, includes yarn channels, a gauge tool, and even has a lid to protect your yarn from pets and curious kids.
In reality? It’s big, bulky, and kind of unnecessary.
What’s okay:
- The non-slip base does its job
- The lid is handy if you’re fighting off cats or toddlers
What’s not:
- Won’t fit larger skeins (sorry, 7-ounce beauties)
- Requires center-pull yarn cakes—no cake, no party
- Costs $33.99, which feels steep for something you probably don’t need
Elise’s take: It technically works… but simpler methods already exist. This one’s a pass unless you really love gadgets.
2. Thread Cutters (Yes, the Shark Tank One)
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5)
These wearable thread cutters strap onto your hand and promise safe, convenient cutting. Sounds clever, right?
The good:
- Safe (you’re not going to stab yourself)
- Hard to lose since it’s literally attached to you
The not-so-good:
- The Velcro sticks out and rubs your fingers (rude)
- Feels overpriced for plastic and Velcro
- Better suited for embroidery than crochet
Elise’s verdict: It works—but if you already have scissors nearby (which… let’s be honest), this is more gimmick than must-have.
3. Susan Bates Crochet Hook Cushion Grips
Rating: ⭐⭐½ (1.5/5)
These sponge-style grips are meant to slide over metal hooks to reduce hand strain.
Why they fall flat:
- Slippery—hooks slide in and out
- Texture isn’t pleasant (at least to Elise)
- Not a great fit overall
Better option: The Chunky Boy Craft silicone handle—soft, squishy, and actually comfy (when it’s not sold out, which is often).
4. Only Craft Double Revolving Yarn Holder
Rating: ⭐⭐ (2/5)
A wooden yarn holder designed to manage multiple skeins for colorwork. Sounds dreamy. Unfortunately… reality had other plans.
Pros:
- Nice wood
- Easy assembly
Cons:
- Rubber stoppers fall off (constantly)
- Yarn catches and tangles
- Only works well with small skeins
Bottom line: Pretty to look at, frustrating to use. Elise manages colorwork just fine without it—and you probably can too.
5. Lighted Crochet Hook Set
Rating: ❌ (0/5 — Elise was not impressed)
This was the biggest disappointment of all. Light-up hooks sound helpful, especially with dark yarn—but these missed the mark entirely.
What went wrong:
- Cheap, flimsy plastic
- Hook heads bend easily (yikes)
- Light barely illuminates anything
- Feels like a gimmick cashing in on crocheters’ struggles
Elise’s advice: Skip this entirely. Use hooks you love and invest in a good neck light instead. Much better results.
🎉 Crochet Gadget Wins (These Are Worth It!)
Now for the fun part—the gadgets that actually earned their keep.
1. Lion Brand Stress Relief Gloves
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐½ (3.5/5)
Compression gloves that help with hand pain without turning your fingers into sausages? Yes, please.
Why they’re great:
- Lightweight and stretchy
- Full finger movement
- Boost circulation and comfort
One tip: Sizing runs snug—Elise recommends sizing up slightly.
Perfect for crocheters dealing with stiffness, soreness, or long crafting sessions.
2. Clover Large Tassel Maker
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
If you love tassels (and who doesn’t?), this tool makes them neat, consistent, and way less annoying.
The only hiccup:
-
Instructions are tiny and confusing
Solution: YouTube to the rescue. Once you get the hang of it, this tool is a joy—and built to last.
3. Only Craft Wooden Granny Square Blocking Board
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (4.5/5)
This is a serious glow-up tool for granny squares. Made from solid red oak with walnut trim, it helps you block squares evenly and professionally.
Why Elise loves it:
- Gorgeous, sturdy wood
- Tons of pinholes for flexibility
- Felt backing protects surfaces
Minor gripe: The included stand isn’t necessary—she’d happily skip it to lower the cost.
Still, if you’re serious about polished projects, this one’s a winner.
4. Homest Extra Large Yarn Storage Tote
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
This tote is the Beyoncé of yarn storage.
Why it’s amazing:
- Tall design saves floor space
- Tons of pockets inside and out
- Yarn-feed grommets (yes!)
- Sturdy fabric that holds its shape
Only downside: Limited color/design options. Function over fashion—but it’s really functional.
Final Thoughts: Buy Smarter, Crochet Happier
Elise’s biggest takeaway? More gadgets don’t always mean better crocheting. The best tools are the ones that:
- Improve comfort
- Improve organization
- Improve the finished look of your projects
And remember—crochet is personal. What’s a miracle tool for one person might be a total miss for another. (I’m just the messenger.)
If this saves you from even one regrettable late-night Amazon purchase, Elise has done her job. Happy stitching—and may your yarn never tangle 🧶✨
