Sometimes we get some pretty unique and special crochet tools brought to our attention. In the December issue we share the Accurow. This tool is a way to count your stitches and or rows in your project. It can be imbedded into your work so that if you are unexpected interrupted while counting, no worries! You won’t lose your spot. It doesn’t need batteries. It comes with 3 ribbons. Each ribbon has numbers spaced along its length that can be lined up with our stitches or rows as you work. Then all you have to do is glance down to see where you are! So much faster than trying to decipher your work and count, especially if working with a fuzzy or specialty yarn! Read what fellow editor, Tara Orchard, had to say about it in the December issue. And for more of the backstory and to purchase, head on over to their site.

But maybe you want something with batteries that you can just click and track your progress. The Annie’s Electronic Row Counter Ring would be right up your alley. It is small and can be wrapped around a finger, just like you wear a watch around your wrist. Clicking the button to track your progress is quick and easy. When you are done working for the day, slide it off and into your project bag. Get one here.

Great tools are limited to just gadgets that help you count. How many of you are missing hooks in your set of crochet hooks? Okay put your hands down. Have trouble finding your yarn needles when you need them? Hands down again please. What about needing a stitch marker? We have you covered! Get the Annie’s Crochet Hooks Set with Case and keep everything in one place. You get 9 hooks from B to J with ergonomic handles, stitch markers, yarn needles and a little case to keep them in. Then keep them all in the adorable little bag to take with you everywhere! Find the set here.

Keep your yarn from rolling all over the place with one of these cool yarn bowls: Yarn Valet  or the Big Sully! These guys speak for themselves. They trap those wily rascals so that say in one place AND (bonus) your cat can’t run away with them!

The absolute best tool to always have on hand though has to be a good stitch dictionary. Try one of these: 101 Stitches for Afghans or The New Crochet Stitch Dictionary. Whether you want to try your hand at designing something yourself or you just need a little more guidance with a particular stitch pattern, these won’t lead you astray.

REMEMBER the holidays are getting closer and all of these would also make great gifts!

—Britt Schmiesing, editor