Single ended hooks are the most commonly used crochet hook. They have a hook on one end and generally have a 5-1/2-inch length. They are commonly found in steel and alumimum, but also other things, such as wood, bone, teflon, plastic, etc.

Afghan hooks are used for working the afghan stitch. They have a hook on one end and a stopper on the other and generally come in a 10-inch and 14" length.

I doubt if you can find an afghan hook that is small enough for thread. They are usually used with yarn. You don't mention what size thread you are working with.

In the US, there are two sizing systems used for crochet hooks. One ranges from size B or 1 (smallest) to S or 35 (largest). The second system, used for steel hooks only, range from 00 (largest) to 14 (smallest). The 00 - 14 steel hooks are used for finer work, most commonly with a crochet cotton.

In order to check the size of ANY crochet hook, you need to get a Needle and Stitch Gauge. It's used to check the gauge of crochet hooks or knitting needle sizes. You measure the gauge of the hook at the widest point on the hook. If the hook slips through the gauge hole, then that is the incorrect size. The hook should just snug up in the gauge hole at the widest point of the hook.

You may find a comfort cushion would help you out. They slip over a steel crochet hook to provide a more comfortable grip - especially if you hold your hook in a whole-hand grip. But it also works if you hold the hook in a pencil grip. If you click on the link below, you can see a comfort cushion.

There are also new crochet hooks on the market with a wide grip.

Grainlady

Here is a link that might be useful: Wrights Products

I have one Hero hook, which I bought in the early 70s I would guess. Have not seen them recently. Just try one of those cushions for hooks, but use it as an extender.

You must be gripping the hook quite hard if your hand hurts. You might also try to hold the hook more loosely, if that is the case.

Hi Jane, I was having the same problem with my hands and have purchased a wood handle to fit the crochet hooks in. They are removable so you can change the hook but reuse the handle. I just received a new catalog from Herschners today and they have the new Addi thread crochet hooks with longer handles. You can check there site on your computer.
Good Luck!

Have you tried Graydog crochet hooks? You can find them on eBay, or try a google search.

I think they will customize the size hook with the handle. Just saw them on ebay a few days ago.

I love my thread crochet, too, and like you, am finding the steel hook is getting too hard for me to hold, and, for some reason, I guess my hands get a little clammy, and the hook tends to turn a little sticky. (Yes, I do wash me hands every time I do my crochet work) I'm thinking my next birthday present to myself will be to invest in these lovely pieces.

Greyling - Have you ever tried powdering your hands? That's one of those things I teach when I give crochet classes. I always carry a tiny container of baby powder (with cornstarch) or cornstarch in my bag and will powder my hands and rub it in really well, if I have a problem with my hands getting clammy. I've been using a Comfort Cushion (which I mentioned in my post above) on any steel hooks for years, and it works like a dream. It's also an inexpensive "fix" when you've already invested in hooks.

Grainlady