Expert: Bea Harrell - 8/8/2008

Question
Hi, I've just started an afghan with an 8.0mm hook.  I started with a regular crochet hook, but since I'm doing an afghan stitch I'd like to change to an afghan hook.  However, no one seems to sell large size 10" or 14" hooks.  Luckily, I found one seller in China who carries them on ebay--but I'll be waiting for 3 weeks for the delivery.  Anyway, I was wondering if there is some reason why the afghan hooks come in really limited sizes? Thanks

Answer
Hi, Elizabeth! Though I can't say for sure, I believe that most crocheters are moving towards motif crochet for afghans. When I learned to crochet in the early 1960's you could go into any craft store, and there were rows & rows of threads and yarns, crochets hooks, knitting needles, and afghan hooks in every conceivable size.  Over the years, I've seen the decline of thread crochet, and fewer afghan hook sizes and also more and more yarns. So,I think afghans made with the afghan stitch are falling out of favor.

Best Wishes,  Bea