If you’re a knitter, a crocheter, or someone who’s wanted to try either but find your hands don’t cooperate like they used to, you’re definitely not alone. Arthritis can make gripping needles or hooks painful and frustrating, but there are ergonomic tools designed to help you keep enjoying your favorite crafts with less discomfort. As a keen crafter myself, I know how important it is to stay connected to hobbies that bring joy, creativity, and comfort.
Here’s a guide to some of the best easy-to-use knitting and crochet tools for arthritic hands, I also share physio tips to make your crafting sessions more comfortable and enjoyable.
Why It’s Important to Keep Up with Hobbies When You Have Arthritis
Staying engaged with hobbies you love has many benefits:
- Keeps joints moving gently which helps maintain flexibility and reduces stiffness.
- Provides a sense of accomplishment and joy, boosting your mood.
- Supports fine motor coordination and hand strength — important for managing arthritis symptoms.
- Offers a valuable distraction from pain or frustration.
If you want more detailed strategies for managing arthritic hands in daily life, check out my blog on Practical Tips for Managing Arthritic Hands: How to Ease Pain and Improve Function
Top Ergonomic Knitting and Crochet Tools for Arthritic Hands
Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you choose to make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my work – aimed at supporting you.
1. Ergonomic Knitting Needles
Look for knitting needles with larger, cushioned grips or those made from lightweight materials to reduce hand strain.
RUIDI Circular Knitting Needles Set
Comfortable, versatile, and great for arthritic hands. Gorgeous case – love it.
This lovely set includes 13 pairs of smooth, warm-to-touch circular knitting needles (ranging from 2.75mm to 10mm), perfect for a wide variety of projects. With 3 different lightweight material options bamboo, beech wood and aluminium all feeling gentle in the hands – just choose the ones you like best – they are all gorgeous. The ergonomic design helps reduce strain — ideal for knitters with arthritis. Interchangeable tips and included cables give you flexibility, while the stylish storage case keeps everything neatly organised. A great gift or treat for any knitting enthusiast.
ChiaoGoo Twist Red Lace Interchangeable Knitting Needle Set (Large Sizes)
For serious knitters who want smooth, snag-free stitching and top-notch quality
This premium stainless steel needle set from ChiaoGoo is ideal if you love knitting with larger yarns or chunkier projects. It includes six interchangeable needle sizes (5.5mm to 10mm), three flexible cables, and a handy cloth carry case — all bundled with a roomy craft project bag. The smooth steel tips and flexible red cords are a favourite among seasoned knitters, offering excellent glide without tugging. While pricier, this set is a joy to use and built to last — great if your hands appreciate quality craftsmanship and effortless movement.
2. Easy-Grip Crochet Hooks
Crochet hooks with thick, rubberized handles or ergonomic grips reduce the pressure on your fingers and make holding the hook more comfortable.
Boye Ergonomic Crochet Hook Set (Pack of 12)
Crocheting made easier, more colourful, and a whole lot more comfortable
This 12-piece set of ergonomic crochet hooks from Boye is perfect for anyone who loves crochet but struggles with hand fatigue. With soft rubber handles and smooth aluminium hooks, they offer a gentler grip and reduce tension on sore fingers. The bright colours make it easy to spot the right size, and the full range means you’re ready for everything from fine lace to chunky yarns. A lovely option for arthritic hands — or simply for those who want to crochet in comfort.
Clover Amour Crochet Hook Set
Colourful comfort for crochet lovers – Top rated
The Clover Amour set is a favourite among crafters — and for good reason. These bright, easy-to-spot hooks feature soft, ergonomic grips that are gentle on hands, making them especially popular with people who have arthritis or hand fatigue. The smooth metal tips glide through yarn effortlessly, while the colourful handles add a bit of joy to every project. This set includes 9 sizes from 2mm to 6mm, covering all your crochet needs.
3. Yarn Holders and Dispensers
Using a yarn bowl or yarn holder prevents tangling and reduces the need for frequent gripping and pulling, which can tire arthritic hands.
Kimona Wooden Yarn Bowl
Beautifully crafted — and built for ease of use – I love this
This hand-carved acacia wood yarn bowl isn’t just a stylish addition to your crafting space — it’s a smart solution for anyone with joint pain or reduced hand dexterity. The deep, stable design keeps your yarn from rolling away or tangling, so you don’t have to constantly reach, grip, or chase runaway yarn. It allows for smooth, uninterrupted flow — reducing strain on your hands and helping you stay comfortable while you create.
Lightweight, sturdy, and easy to carry — ideal for those who need their setup to work with them, not against them.
🧶 Makes a thoughtful gift for crafters managing arthritis or hand pain. Less than £20.
Yuhtech Magnetic Wooden Yarn Holder
Gentle spinning for sore or stiff hands
This smooth-rotating yarn holder is perfect if joint pain or reduced hand strength makes crafting harder. The magnetic top keeps yarn secure and tangle-free, while the beech wood base spins effortlessly — reducing hand strain and awkward tugging.
Lightweight, easy to assemble, and kind on achy fingers.
🧶 Another great gift for comfortable, fuss-free crafting. Less than £15.
4. Stitch Marker
Often difficult to handle here are 2 options to make things easier.
Clover Triangle Stitch Markers (3.75–5.0mm)
Gentle on joints, easy on yarn
These soft, flexible stitch markers are perfect for hands that need a break. The triangular shape makes slipping them onto needles a breeze — no fiddling or frustration. They stay in place without tugging your yarn or taxing your fingers.
An ideal little helper for pain-free, precise knitting.
Clover Soft Jumbo Stitch Ring Markers
Designed for thick yarns and tired hands
These soft plastic markers slide smoothly onto chunky needles (8–19mm), making them ideal if you struggle with finger stiffness or joint pain. With 10 small and 10 large rings, they’re great for marking stitch changes without adding strain or fiddly handling.
A simple, helpful tool for more comfortable knitting.
5. Yarn Threader
Clover Yarn Threader – Flat, Easy-Grip Design
Thread thick yarns without the finger-fumble
Struggling to thread yarn with sore hands or reduced dexterity? This flat, firm threader has a wide opening that makes guiding long or fluffy yarns simple — no more pinching or frustration.
Light, sturdy, and ideal for anyone needing a hand-friendly helper.
Tips to Make Knitting and Crochet Easier with Arthritis
- Take frequent breaks to avoid overworking your hands. Stretch your fingers gently between sessions.
- Try heat therapy before crafting to loosen stiff joints.
- Maintain good posture and support your arms on cushions or armrests.
- Try alternating hands if one is more painful, or use knitting machines or looms as an alternative.
- Adjust tension to avoid pulling yarn too tight, which can add strain.
Keep Crafting, Keep Smiling
Arthritis can make crafts challenging, but with the right tools and a little patience, you can keep enjoying these wonderful hobbies that feed your creativity and heart. Remember, the goal isn’t perfection but joy and connection.
If you’re looking for more tips on managing arthritic hands or want to explore other supportive tools, be sure to visit my Managing Arthritic Hands blog for lots of friendly advice.
Take care, Helen
Helen Manders BSc (Hons) MCSP HCPC
Chartered Physiotherapist Since 2001
