Crotchet wool for beginner?

[icclemunchy]

Can anyone suggest a good wool for a beginner? And how much does hook size matter? I've got a 4mm hook and some DK wool and I'm trying to follow some YouTube vids although I can do the first bit (chain stitch?) the chains are tiny and I can seem to do the next bit. I'm not sure if my wool is too fine or I'm pulling too tight? Or something else completely!!

search for bella coco on youtube, her tutorials are great. The dk wool seems fine and so is a 4mm hook.

I literally learnt last week with cheap dk wool and my sons loom band hook!

I am currently using stylecraft dk wool ordered off wool warehouse. I have just finished my first baby blanket and most of the way through my second

For a first project a size 4 hook and DK wool should be fine. Try not to use anything too fluffy or that splits because you really need to see the stitch formation well to work out where you need to insert your hook. I would definately start with a granny type square rather then anything with a starting chain as inserting your hook into each chain stitch can be awkward. If I make anything with a starting chain I usually use a bigger hook for the chain. Hook size is only really important if you are making something where the size needs to be accurate and you would do a swatch and alter hook size until your swatch was the size the pattern states. For blankets, scarves etc i wouldn't worry too much. There is a difference between British and US terms so make sure you are familiar with them and know which terms your pattern uses before you start. Tension is important for neat work but will get better as you find a way of holding your yarn that you are comfortable with.
Good luck and post again if you have anymore questions that we can help with. MN is great for picking up tips. But be warned CROCHET IS VERY ADDICTIVE!

Yes, I think you are pulling the chains too tight as you should be able to get the hook in easily. It's a common mistake and one I still make occasionally when using a different yarn thickness or hook size than I usually use :)

When you are first learning it is a common mistake to make the first row too tight. Try using 4.5 hook for the foundation row then switching to the 4. A 4 or 4.5 can both work for double knitting depending on the quality of the wool. This something you will get used to with practice.

I find some dk wool is better than others. I really like the stylecraft one I'm using at the moment. Leave your chains really loose, much looser than you think you need to. It'll be easier to insert the hook then. Good luck, don't get too addicted!