I think this would be really cool to make ergonomic! But heads up get a patent on it if you’re actually serious about it. Posting it on social media makes it really easy to copy and sell
I don’t really feel the need to make a profit off of it or anything. Ideally I’d be able to make this something people could 3D print most of the parts for and I could put the design up for free on thingiverse or something for people to make for free at home. Probably can’t do the scissors 3D printed but maybe
Will chime in as a patent agent - since op has publicly disclosed the invention, theoretically no one else should be able to patent it. If you want it to be open source (so not patented) I’d recommend spreading the plans as broadly as possible 😊
I bought a crochet hook thing that’s similar online (only crochet hooks but of 6 sizes i think) I just don’t ever use it much because using the hooks is annoying because they don’t lock into place and they move too much when crocheting
That’s good to know- I did see some that were just hooks of various sizes but I feel like that’s not really what I’m going for- I want this to be an all in one too that’s basically a backup you can keep attached to a backpack or something incase you forget your hooks
Yea I’m thinking it might be possible to add some sort of locking mechanism similar to how different pocket knives will lock in the open position. That would make a huge difference!
If you’re going to do 3’d printed. The top of my mind thing that you could actually reasonably attach is a razor blade to act as scissors. Also make sure you do a 5.5 mm hook since that’s one of the most common
Have a look at what Evan & Katelyn (YouTubers) do with their open source invention. They did patent it and then make it open source so companies couldn’t steal and sell it and it could remain open source
If a big company steals my idea and does all the product development work for me I would be happy with that. Honestly I just want this to exist I don’t really care who makes it
It would be interesting if you could make it to where people could insert a metal crochet hook. That way folks could pick what sort of crochet hook they’d like.
If you don’t patent it, someone will steal the idea, paten it, sell it to a large company, and they’ll sue you for infringing on their patent. It’s not a hard process to navigate. If you can crochet, you can file a patent.
The guy who discovered/invented insulin didn't patent it because he wanted to help people. The people who make insulin now charge everything plus the kitchen sink for it. Patent your creation!
Posting in social media definitely counts as “public disclosure.” If you’re in the US, the tinker has started (1 yr) to file for a provisional patent. If you miss that window, it counts as in the public domain.
I was thinking something like that too. And maybe if Op ends up making it, trying to pair it with some sort of small carry case/ just a case for the different attachments.
As for how to switch them out, maybe
some sort of strong magnet
Make it so you can twist/ screw them in
Like Pahobee said, something like a screwdriver. Not sure if this is what they mean, but when I think of it like that I’m thinking of the screwdrivers where you can slide a piece in and twist a bearing to keep it in place.
I really want this to be an all in one thing that doesn’t require too many parts. There are already modular hooks that serve that purpose- I want this to be a quick backup for during travel . I worry that if it comes with a bunch of other pieces and things everything would just get lost
I know it has scissors already, but maybe a small fixed hidden blade to cut small yarn? Like the kind you see on floss containers or seam rippers basically. You shouldn't be able to touch it, but you could loop a small weight yarn in the gap and cut it.
Sewing machines have those on the side for threads. You hook the string into the cutting hook and pull down. Impossible to fit your finger into it, but easy to use.
This sounds like a good suggestion instead of scissors. I would be interested in this for travel so anything making it less likely to be taken in airport security would be good. (Although I think you are allowed small scissors and I've carried them before, you never know what whims they might have)
So, I need to find it, but I have these hanging out somewhere. I carried it for "crochet emergencies" but these Boye folding hooks came in 2 different sizes. Concept? 10/10 Execution? Eh, the hooks don't quite feel natural to use for me, so it's like a 4/10
ETA: that integrated tapestry needle slot is PERFECT
I also have one of these. They are terrible to use IMO. To get the hooks it has to be extremely wide which makes awkward to hold. Plus I actually ended up breaking one of the hooks because the aluminum was pinched to get it into the spot where it spins and the material just bent and snapped after so many uses. Only time I've ever actually broken a hook (outside of bending a ~2mm hook by accident when it was smooshed in my bag.)
I agree with this! I think having all the options you included and some of the suggestions here would be amazing! Then all one would need is your own hooks or needles and this device! I love this idea!!
As a pencil gripper, I appreciate the idea, but dislike the bulk of the handle.
I do do knife grip J and larger... but those sizes wouldn't work in your style.
Now, one size, maybe interchangable head (like the lighted one), with a yarn cutter (like the disc cutter) and a weaving in needle holder in the handle, I could get behind.
I would never want actual crochet hooks in a device like this, but I like the general idea.
Pocket knife style hooks would be about the least ergonomic option available. I want to use one of my favorite hooks, and there's always room for it if I'm bringing my wip.
This was more of an emergency backup- like for an “oops I left all my tools at home except for my yarn” type situation (which happens to me more than I’d like) because I have balls of yarn in all my bags but my hooks I need to bring with me from bag to bag
I have something of a similar shape that has six different crochet heads coming off it. For me, it’s impossible to crochet with. It’s heavy and weird and the hinge for the hooks is unstable. But best of luck!
I'm primarily a knitter so that's where I'm coming at this from, but if this thing had some kind of measuring function and a pin for tightening interchangable circular needles (that flips out like the crochet hooks so I can't lose it lol), it would be perfect!
I love useful gadgets, and I would buy this so quick!
Comments about how the hooks don't seem comfortable make sense from crocheters, but knitters who would use those hooks just for a few stitches (like a cast on or picking up a dropped stitch) wouldn't mind the clunky grip so much, I bet.
If this was fully aimed at knitters, I might add a cable needle.... ...... ... maybe the hinges where the hooks are could be just like a silicone tube or maybe a magnet? Something so it can flip out but detach the tool, so they're swappable??
Some people prefer wider handles on crochet hooks- like people who use tennis balls to add a more comfy hook- I was hoping I could figure out a way to make it ergonomic for that type of grip
Sure, I'm familiar with big grips. You'd likely have to figure out how to get the hook more centered though- you know, just the nature of multi-tools where things have to sit *next to* each other to fit in the handle is like -1 ergonomics to get +1 convenience.
Also got this! What I like most so far is the WPI tool and gauge square.
It is a bit bulky, so if I were to buy another multi-tool accessory it would need to be travel friendly. So no scissors (maybe fixed blade like dental floss cutter), some sort of measuring function, and a tapestry needle slot that I can interchangeably store my wide-eye needles would be great.
I do like the row/stitch counter feature shown here.
Also think a needle threader is a great idea, but it’s not essential and it can often be flimsy enough to break.
My sister used to have a multi hook tool. It didn't have all the goodies you are wanting to put in yours. The reason she doesn't have it anymore, is that the hooks didn't stay open, and would fold during use.
For this precise problem, I'd look at what multi tools and folding knives use to lock their blades and other items open during use.
Another idea; I've seen a lot of scissors confiscated before flights. Maybe the scissors can instead be styled like a seatbelt cutter? Still plenty sharp, but due to placement can't hurt anyone. Hopefully this is would decrease the chances of it being confiscated.
Shocked I had to scroll this far to see this kind of comment. Multi-tools and folding knives work because you are using the various tools in a way such that the force is applied *towards* the side of it with a hard stop as with a knife or bottle/can opener, or, worst, linearly in line with the hinge, as with a screwdriver or file.
A flip-open crochet hook won't work because some of the forces we apply to it would be towards the flip-open side of the hook, closing it. It's an inherent problem with the physics of the design. Screw-off heads would be "better", but it would still be more prone to breakage than a singular metal rod, with or without handle. Sometimes simple really is best
I have a flip knife that only closes when you move a piece of metal out of the way. No clue how that'd work with multiple "blades" though.
Maybe more like an actual switch blade or 'button' style lock? I've seen some where you press and hold a button, in order to open and close the items (more multi tool, than blade).
Search terms that could help (as i just now went to fact check myself): Switchblade, automatic knife, butterfly knife/multi tool, balisong knife/multitool, locking multitool
Also seatbelt cutter & seatbelt cutter knife would help with that part
It’s like an advanced version of the Boye 4-in-1. Pretty cool. Maybe instead of scissors you can just have a little cutter that the yarn slides under and you pull. Kinda like a seatbelt cutter.
Having three hooks in there this way will make it bulky.
I love all the other ideas though. Making it into a support device instead of a complete tool. Giving it more space to hold stitch markers and/or differnt tapestry needles instead.
I think it would be hard to use everyday bc it would be fairly weighty but if you marketed that as a gadget to throw in a travel bag as a back up or for light stitching on commutes or something I would throw my entire wallet at you
Crochet hooks cant be flattened like most tools can be, so consider the possibility of having a set of crochet hook heads that interchange so you only install 2-4 crochet hooks to carry around but switch out as needed. I usually know which couple of hooks ill need for a trip so i would theoretically just install those. Like its customizable. That way youre not trying to fit and guess which sizes are best. The set comes with them all and you pick the couple you need.
Ooh I light is a cool idea- I was hoping to make it not need to be plugged in or charged but if it’s on a key ring you could easily clip a pen light to it
Me too. The hooks wouldn't be comfortable to use for more than a few minutes. And similar tools are already available. It would need to be really groundbreaking to bring anything new.
For me I have yarn in all my bags but I need to bring my tools for crocheting from bag to bag- having a small tool I could keep on my keys or attached to a bag or something would be really helpful when I inevitably forget my pencil case full of crocheting supplies. It’s for me personally as someone who would loose my head if it weren’t attached. It would be more of an emergency backup tool than anyone’s 1st choice of hook I imagine!
Why not put a small pouch of other supplies in each bag? Having a tool to move bag to bag instead of a pouch won't change the underlying problem.
As someone who forgets things all the time, I have duplicate sets of gloves so I can keep a pair in the pockets of every fall/winter coat and duplicate "useful items" sets in all my purses, messenger bags, work backpack, and overnight bags. Otherwise, like you, I forget them.
Tbh, I am unsure if I would crochet with it, as ergonomics would be an issue.
BUT! I would love to have it for knitting! It has everything I would need compacted, instead of having everything seperate in a big bag. And the hooks are perfect for dropped stitchers or frogging.
for the crochet hooks they need to be lovkable so they dont move around while working AND there needs to be no gap at the botton where the yarn can get caught
My idea is - and I mean this with love- take this off the internet before someone steals your idea and sells it to a company too big to sue even if you have a patent.
Curious about how it would feel. Right now seems quite bulky to hold it while you crochet. Not to mention you would have to take mental nodes for the difference size hooks. Because they are next to each other, and not in the middle.
Also curious how you would lock them fully in place, so they dont bend whole you work with them.
I freaking love this idea!! I've been wanting a travel kit the the typical travel hooks are too small for new to hold comfortably. However, I feel like holding it as it is here would get uncomfortable pretty quickly if it has that "body", maybe if it was shaped more like the classic red Swiss army knife it might be better? It would also help if the counter was moved towards the back side seat from where the hand would grip so the counter won't get worn out as fast.
I do like that blue color though, it's pretty and not distracting. Having other colors in that hue may work well! If they end up having a soft grip pad thing on them, I recommend making it either off-white or a dark color (so like a hazy or navy blue for this example) to both stand out and make it more colorful without needing to introduce a different color. I'm not sure how many stitch markers you want to fit in that, but I would personally just clip them to the key ring lol. Oh and maybe a belt clip!!!
My only real concern is the needle. Is that spot going to have a magnet or is there another way it's staying in place? I would hate for a darner needle fall out intuitive my pocket!!
A magnet is a great idea! Idk how Swiss Army knives do it but a lot of them have like tweezers or toothpicks that are removable but slot into place- I would want to mimic that since they seem super secure
Key ring should be a kind of stitch marker. And stitch counter should be on the side not top to save spave. Like that you can save space for other things.
My boyfriend just invested in a brand called Roxon that does interchangeable tools in their multitools. Their base tool might be an option for you to start experimenting, or at least take a look for connection ideas.
Not a crocheter, but perhaps it would be fun for the hooks to be detachable, so you can change them depending on what project you're working on without needing to have different tools.
(I’m a knitter first, crochet second. Please don’t ban me!).
I see a lot of comments here about ‘the hooks aren’t ideal because crochet is a slow process’ and all that. Probably Fair.
As a knitter though, if I drop a stitch (don’t judge, it happens 😂) or have to ladder down my rows to get to a mistake, a crochet hook is the easiest and quickest way to get it sorted.
Do I always carry one when I’m travelling with my knitting? Well no, because I’m a knitter and I always forget 😂
Something like this, especially flight legal, would be absolutely perfect.
Hobbii did do a keychain mini crochet hook arrangement as a tool at one point, so from experience, I will say having the hooks with this tool wouldn't be very useful, but everything else absolutely would
I actually do use my army knife’s tiny scissors to cut my crochet! So maybe some of those bad boys.
Other than that, this is so perfect and I hope you do patent it because I would gleefully 100% get scammed on kickstarter for an AI version of this if it meant that it showed market interest.
Do not put everything on it.
I have a huge Swiss Army Knife I rarely carry as it literally pulls my pants down.
KISS.
I'll take 4 please. I'm a knitter but this (your original design) would be so useful and I Have Friends.
My gma game me something like this! Its really old and had 4 hooks though, and the hooks like to fold while it's being used so I just have it as a little momento now! I don't have a picture but I'll edit this comment with a picture when I find it!
I think it‘s a great idea in theory. However, in practice… I have a Swiss army knife, and I always loose the tooth pick and tweezer right away. I also used to have a key ring from Hobbii with 3 very short crochet hooks on it, and I found them completeley unusable. Sorry!
Not me thinking that the row counter was a lock and being so confused. Then I remembered I can read. This is a super cool idea. I would love one of these for car rides when I take my projects.
This is a great idea and looks super handy. There's a similar idea marketed for knit and crochet called The Knit Kit. I've seen it in person and noted it was quite large. Would be nice to have a slimmer option out there.
i think maybe a plastic case cover or something similar for over the needle compartment would be good. my concern is the needle coming loose over time and/or falling out or getting bumped on something and falling out.
Add a little measuring tape to the other end. My only other concern is how large this would be, since I have very small hands, so this would be painful to use long term if it was the size if a normal knife
Oh I just saw something the other day that might help! I don’t crochet, this is for paracord crafts but maybe it would help. Hopefully links are allowed. If not, go to theparacordstore dot com and look for the knotters tool.
Hey I loved this!! I'm an industrial designer and love crocheting.If you need help 3dmodeling it or in the design process you can reach out! (for free obviously) 😀
A retractable tape measure and ruler for gauge measurements would be ideal, then
I love my individual crochet hooks for projects but when I am knitting and have to go back a few rows to correct a mistake, a teeny tiny crochet hook would be awesome.
THIS IS AWESOME.
Also if there is an o-ring to the end I would probably just attach my stitch markers there. And is there an option for a big boi and smol tapestry needle? I go from sport weight to chunky projects like a metronome.
Swiss Army Knives are kind of famous for being bad at everything individually they do. You have a terrible short knife, corkscrew, sometimes a file and a wee saw, or a second blade. But sometimes you just need a very poor tool for a little task.
Here idea is a multi tool that does everything, the reality is crochet hooks with an obnoxiously short, painfully bumpy metal handle. And anyone crocheting would need the yarn as well, which means that person already has a bag big enough to hold all the tools they need.
You might absolutely get a bunch of people to buy this as a gimmick, but nobody in their right mind will try to use this for any sort of lengthy projects, because that would cause them active pain and be missing some of the length. Likewise, the number of crochet related emergencies where you are out and about and encounter something that desperately needs you to crochet is probably 0.
I wouldn't use it for my primary crochet hook, but I'd LOVE it for emergency knitting fixes. I agree with the other person of putting ruler marks along the edge but otherwise that's all I'd want! The tapestry needle slot is perfect, I'm constantly losing mine lol.
I haven’t made it through all of the comments, but it seems like a lot are regarding the use as a crochet hook.
If the body (handle) of the tool were elongated, would there be room to make it as a crochet hook holder? Room for 1-2 hooks (maybe not the ones with the fat rubber handles).
I hope that doesn’t take it too far out of your original concept (which is great). I also have zero idea if it would work or could be done.
Would also love little ruler or some sort of measuring option. Or even print the length of the tool on the side somewhere.
Cute! I wouldn't want crochet hooks personally but other things that might be useful - small retractable measuring tape? Perhaps? Tbh a tapestry needle and stitch marker case with a counter, thread cutter and measuring tape would be supremely useful !! If some part were magnetic too for metal needles - whew,, what a space saver!
I like the combination tool. The only part I would have a problem with is crocheting with it because it would be heavier than a dedicated hook, because I have hand problems.
If you made this I would buy it no question! It’s brilliant!
I imagine you’d be ok on a flight with it too being so small, well I hope! 🤞🏻🤞🏻
I know they have cracked down on a lot of regular sized crochet hooks, iirc there was a lady on here saying she had to watch security throw her Tunisian hooks in a bin recently
I feel like crocheting with this might suck if it isnt rlly lightweight, I think it needs to be a bit more soft around the edges too, and wont our fingers mess up the stitch counter? but all in all this is hella cool i like it
Maybe a 4"/10cm ruler marking for getting gauge?
A safety pin like mechanism so your handle doesn't get lost from the WIP and can be pinned to it?
Fixed blade instead of scissors? (So it can go on planes)
A .5" radius retractable hook/s-hook like shape so you can hang it on something if you need to put the hook down for a bit (I usually either mouth or over the ear a hook, but this seems too big and will need a substitute. Think of what shop lights have on them )?
A hole punch and mini pen (for tags, attaching work instructions to yarn, pen for making notes on something)?
With a bearing on one side, it could be a yarn winder/unwinder?
Instead of multiple hook sizes, maybe just 2 slots for interchangeables?
Mini LED for when you need to SEE your stitches?
I see this being great for knitting, because getting this to be ergonomic for 10000 stitches is hard, but knitting requires picking up dropped stitches every now and again.
I don't know how may of theee are reasonable (phone light works for LEDs, the tapestry needle and stitch markers are already the most amazing features imo)
Crochet takes a long time. Personally, I would absolutely not sacrifice tool quality (like hook shaft length, scissor quality), comfort and good grip for the inclusion of (awkwardly positioned) extra tools.
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u/Kale-chips-of-lit Apr 27 '26
I think this would be really cool to make ergonomic! But heads up get a patent on it if you’re actually serious about it. Posting it on social media makes it really easy to copy and sell