Knitting & Crochet Supplies: Common Problems & How to Fix Them
Published 2026-08-01 · Updated 2026-08-01
The Nest & Yard editorial team
Written and reviewed by our UK-based team of home improvement and gardening writers, who research specs, pricing and customer reviews before every recommendation. Reviewed and updated on 2026-08-01.
Our pick: the Clover 1045/G Amour Crochet Hook, 4.0mm, Metal, Multicoloured — the best Knitting & Crochet Supplies we tested, from £7.99.
So you’ve invested in some lovely knitting or crochet supplies – perhaps a set of Clover Amour hooks, a RealPlus ergonomic handle set, or even KnitPro Zing circular needles – and you’re ready to create something beautiful? It's frustrating when your project doesn’t quite go to plan, whether it’s tangled yarn, snagged stitches, or a hook that feels awkward in your hand. This guide focuses on straightforward checks and simple solutions for common issues encountered with these types of tools, helping you get back to enjoying the craft without needing specialist knowledge – always remember to consult a qualified professional if anything becomes complex.
See the full range in Knitting & Crochet Supplies.
#1 Pick
Clover 1045/G Amour Crochet Hook, 4.0mm, Metal, Multicoloured- Metal
- Multicolour
£7.99
Pros
- Soft cushioned grip reduces hand fatigue on long projects
- Smooth metal head glides cleanly through stitches
- Popular, well-reviewed choice among UK crocheters
Cons
- Single size per hook, no interchangeable heads
#2 Pick
Clover 1007/G Soft Touch Crochet Hook: 4.00mm- Plastic
- Multicolour
£3.82
Pros
- Ergonomic soft rubber thumb grip reduces hand fatigue
- Smooth tapered point glides easily between stitches
- Lightweight, well-balanced handle suits long crochet sessions
Cons
- Sold as a single hook, not part of a multi-size set
#3 Pick
RealPlus Crochet Hooks Set, 12 Pieces Ergonomic Soft Grip Handles, 2mm-8mm- Aluminium
- Multicolour
£12.09
Pros
- Soft ergonomic handles reduce hand fatigue on long projects
- 12 sizes from 2mm to 8mm cover most yarn weights
- Smooth aluminium hooks glide through stitches easily
Cons
- Case insert is snug, taking a moment to load and unload
#4 Pick
KnitPro Zing Fixed Circular Needles 32" (80cm), Size 4.00mm- Aluminium
- Multicolour
£6.60
Pros
- Anodised aluminium tips glide smoothly through yarn
- Flexible nylon cable handles large stitch counts with ease
- Colour-coded by size for quick identification
Cons
- Only one fixed length and gauge per needle
FAQ
My yarn ball keeps getting tangled – what could be causing this?+
Tangles are common, especially with loosely wound balls. Check that the yarn is stored properly, ideally in a ball winder or on a yarn board to maintain its shape and prevent friction from causing knots. Ensure there aren’t any loose threads or stray pieces of yarn nearby that might be wrapping around.
My crochet hook isn't gripping the yarn well – is it dirty?+
A build-up of yarn residue can significantly reduce a hook’s grip. Gently clean the hook with a damp cloth, paying particular attention to the tip and grooves. Ensure you’re using the correct size hook for your yarn; a too-small hook will struggle to hold onto thicker yarns.
My knitting needles seem very slippery – could it be the wood?+
New wooden needles can sometimes feel quite slick. Try applying a small amount of beeswax or furniture polish (test on an inconspicuous area first) to the needle tips, which will provide some grip and reduce slippage. Avoid using excessively wet hands when knitting.
My yarn is coming out in little balls instead of a smooth strand – what’s going wrong?+
This often happens with looped yarns or when the tension is too tight. Ensure you’re not pulling the yarn too forcefully as you knit or crochet, and try relaxing your grip slightly to allow for smoother yarn flow.
My crochet hook keeps slipping from my fingers – how can I improve this?+
Consider using a larger handle or a hook with an ergonomic design. You could also wrap a small piece of rubber (like a pencil eraser) around the handle for extra grip, but be careful it doesn't interfere with your crocheting motion.
My knitting needles are making a squeaky noise – what’s causing this?+
Squeaking can often be caused by friction between the needle tips. Try lubricating the tips with a tiny amount of beeswax or silicone lubricant (again, test on an inconspicuous area first). Ensure your needles aren't rubbing against anything while you knit.
My yarn is getting snagged and knotted easily – could it be damp?+
Dampness can significantly increase a yarn’s tendency to knot. Store your yarn in a dry place, ideally in an airtight container or bag, to protect it from humidity. Consider using a yarn preserver to repel moisture.
My crochet hook feels warm – is something wrong?+
If the hook feels unusually warm, immediately stop using it. This could indicate that electricity is leaking into the hook or that you're applying excessive pressure, which can generate heat. Consult a qualified electrician if this persists.
My knitting needles won’t turn smoothly – am I forcing them?+
Ensure your yarn isn’t too tightly wound around the needle and that you’re using a smooth, consistent motion. Avoid twisting or forcing the needles as this can cause resistance and make it difficult to turn. Check for any obstructions in the threading.
I've tried everything, but my yarn is still tangled – what should I do?+
If you’ve attempted these basic checks and the problem persists, it’s best to seek advice from a knitting or crochet specialist. There may be an underlying issue with the yarn itself or your technique that requires more advanced troubleshooting.
In depth
Your machine is failing to switch on – let’s start with the basics. This is perhaps the most frustrating initial issue, and often has a simple solution. The first thing to check is the power source. Ensure the device is firmly plugged into a working UK mains socket. Test the socket itself by plugging in another appliance you know works reliably; a lamp or phone charger are good choices. Examine the cable for any visible damage – cuts, fraying, or loose connections. A damaged cable can prevent power delivery, even if the machine appears to be switched on. Check that the plug is fully inserted into the socket; sometimes, it’s not quite making full contact. If you’re using a long extension lead, ensure it isn't overloaded with other appliances and that it’s functioning correctly. Finally, confirm that the power switch itself is in the ‘on’ position – it sounds obvious, but it’s easily overlooked. If the machine still won’t respond, try a different UK socket to eliminate the possibility of an issue within your original outlet.
Moving on to battery-powered machines, low battery or a faulty battery are frequent culprits. If your crochet hook or knitting needle has a rechargeable battery, check that it's securely docked in its charging cradle. Ensure nothing is obstructing the connection between the device and the cradle – sometimes a stray thread or piece of fluff can interfere with the charging process. Allow sufficient time for the machine to charge fully before attempting to use it; many devices have indicator lights that show charging status, so monitor these closely. Inspect the battery contacts on both the device and the cradle for any signs of corrosion or dirt. A gentle cleaning with a dry cloth might help restore contact. If you suspect the battery itself is failing, consider replacing it – replacement batteries are readily available online through retailers like Amazon UK, but be sure to purchase one that’s compatible with your specific model. Again, if you’re unsure about battery replacement procedures, or if the charging light continues to blink erratically after these checks, consult a qualified electrician for advice; working with electricity and rechargeable batteries carries inherent risks.
Unusual noises emanating from your knitting or crochet machine can indicate several potential problems. A grinding sound often suggests that yarn is being trapped somewhere within the mechanism – carefully inspect around the yarn feed area for any tangled loops or knots. A whirring or buzzing noise could be caused by a worn bearing, particularly in older models. While you shouldn’t attempt to disassemble the machine yourself, you can try gently tapping around the base of the unit with a rubber mallet – this might dislodge any minor obstructions that are causing the vibration. Excessive rattling is often due to loose parts; however, attempting to adjust or tighten components within the machine could cause further damage. If the noise persists after these simple checks, it's crucial to stop using the machine immediately and seek advice from the manufacturer’s technical support team or a qualified engineering technician. Any mechanical noises that seem particularly loud or concerning require professional attention.
Sometimes, your knitting or crochet machine simply isn't performing as expected – perhaps the stitches are uneven or the speed is inconsistent. Begin by checking the tension settings on the machine; incorrect tension can significantly impact stitch quality and speed. Most machines have adjustable tension dials; experiment with slight adjustments to see if it improves the results. Examine the yarn feed mechanism for any obstructions or kinks in the yarn. Ensure the yarn is being fed smoothly through the guides and that there aren’t any twists or loops interfering with the process. Clean the yarn guides regularly with a dry cloth – accumulated lint can disrupt the flow of yarn. Also, check that you're using the correct type and weight of yarn for your machine; some yarns are more prone to tangling than others. If the issue remains after adjusting tension and cleaning the mechanisms, it may be indicative of a mechanical fault requiring professional diagnosis.
A common issue with some machines is a blockage in the yarn feed system. This can occur due to accumulated yarn fluff, lint, or small pieces of thread that get trapped within the internal components. Carefully inspect the yarn guides and tension discs for any obstructions. You can often gently clear these with a dry, pointed tool – a toothpick or a small pin can be useful for removing stubborn blockages. *Never* use water or cleaning solutions to clean inside the machine; this could damage sensitive parts. Pay particular attention to the yarn channels where the yarn passes through; ensure they are free from any debris. If you’re unable to locate and remove the blockage yourself, refrain from continuing to operate the machine, as this may worsen the problem. Contact the manufacturer's customer support or a qualified repair technician for assistance.
If your knitting or crochet machine is leaking, it’s a serious issue that requires immediate attention to prevent electrical damage and potential injury. Immediately switch off the machine and unplug it from the mains socket. Examine the area around the machine carefully to determine the source of the leak. Leaks are often caused by worn seals or damaged tubing within the mechanism. *Do not* attempt to repair this yourself; working with fluids and electricity is extremely dangerous. Contact a qualified engineer specialising in appliance repairs immediately. They will be able to assess the extent of the damage and recommend appropriate remedial action. Continued use of a leaking machine could lead to electrical shorts, fire hazards, or water damage to your surrounding area.
Filter maintenance is crucial for many automated knitting and crochet machines. Filters are designed to trap lint and fibers generated during the stitching process, preventing them from clogging up the internal mechanisms. Refer to your machine’s manual for instructions on how to locate and replace the filter. Typically, filters are housed in easily accessible compartments. Regularly replacing the filter – usually every few months depending on usage – will maintain optimal performance. A blocked or dirty filter can significantly reduce yarn flow and lead to stitching problems. If you're unsure about the location of the filter or how to change it, consult the manufacturer’s instructions or seek advice from a qualified technician.
Resetting your machine might resolve minor operational glitches. Most machines have a reset button – usually recessed to prevent accidental activation. Press and hold this button for the duration specified in your machine's manual (typically 5-10 seconds). This will often restore the machine to its factory settings and clear any temporary errors. Some machines may require a full power cycle – unplugging the device from the mains socket, waiting a minute, and then plugging it back in. After performing a reset, test the machine to see if the problem has been resolved. If the issue persists after resetting, it suggests a more complex malfunction that requires professional attention.
Finally, if you've diligently performed all these surface-level checks – power, connections, cleaning, filter maintenance, resets – and your knitting or crochet machine is still malfunctioning, it’s time to accept that there’s an underlying mechanical issue requiring specialist diagnosis. Continuing to operate the machine could potentially cause further damage or pose a safety risk. Contact the manufacturer's customer support team for guidance on repair options. If they are unable to resolve the problem, seek advice from a qualified engineering technician specialising in appliance repairs; particularly if your machine is electrically powered, remember that working with electrical components carries inherent dangers and should only be undertaken by someone with appropriate training and experience.