How To Crochet A Granny Square

A classic granny square is one of the first things I made when I started to crochet, and I’ve not looked back since. If you find it tricky to stick to one project at a time a granny square is the perfect amount of crochet for a quick session and each square gives me a sense of accomplishment.

They are like mini-projects, easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can use them to create blankets, scarves, bags, and countless other projects. Plus, once you’ve got the hang of it, you can experiment with different colours and patterns to make each square unique.

Ready to get started?

Materials And Stitches Used for Crocheting a Granny Square

Before you start, gather the following materials:

• Yarn in your preferred colour(s) (DK weight is commonly used for beginners)

• Crochet hook (usually 4mm or 5mm, depending on your yarn thickness)

• Scissors

• Tapestry needle for weaving in ends

Familiarise yourself with the following stitches:

• Slipknot

• Chain stitch

• Double crochet US/ Treble crochet UK

Notes:

This crochet pattern is written in US crochet terminology, where a double crochet in the US corresponds to a treble crochet in the UK.

Instructions for Making a Granny Square

Creating the Center Ring

1. Make a slip knot and insert your crochet hook.

2. Chain 4 stitches.

3. Join into a ring by inserting your hook into the first chain stitch and making a slip stitch. You now have a small ring to work into.

Working the First Round

1. Chain 3 stitches (this counts as your first double crochet).

2. Work 2 double crochet stitches into the centre of the ring.

3. Chain 2 stitches (this forms the corner of your square).

4. Work 3 double crochet stitches into the centre of the ring.

5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 two more times.

6. Chain 2 stitches and join to the top of your initial chain 3 with a slip stitch. You've completed the first round!

Increasing the Sides

1. Slip stitch into the next two stitches until you reach the first corner space.

2. Chain 3 stitches (counts as your first double crochet of the new round).

3. Work 2 double crochet stitches into the corner space.

4. Chain 2 stitches (forms the corner).

5. Work 3 double crochet stitches into the same corner space.

6. Chain 1 stitch.

7. Move to the next corner space and repeat steps 3 to 6.

8. Continue this process around the square.

Joining New Yarn Colors (Optional)

1. Fasten off your yarn by cutting it and pulling the end through the last loop on your hook.

2. Join new yarn by making a slip knot with the new colour and inserting it on your hook.

3. Start in any corner space, making sure to pull the new yarn through and secure it tightly.

Working the Subsequent Rounds

1. Begin each new round in a corner space.

2. Follow the same pattern of working three double crochet stitches, chaining two stitches for corners, and chaining one between clusters along the sides.

3. Keep adding rounds until your granny square reaches the desired size.

Tips for Neat and Even Granny Squares

• Consistent Tension: Maintain an even tension throughout your work to ensure all stitches are the same size.

• Blocking: Once finished, you can block your granny square by pinning it to a mat and lightly spraying it with water. This helps to shape and flatten it.

• Weaving in Ends: Use a tapestry needle to weave in all loose ends to prevent them from unravelling.

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New to crochet? This should help: A Beginner's Guide to Crochet: Starting Your Journey to a More Relaxed You

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Congratulations!

You’ve made your first granny square.

Now that you’ve mastered the basics, you can explore more complex patterns and combinations. Why not start a project, like a colourful granny square blanket or a stylish tote bag? I would love to see what you are making!

For further inspiration and tutorials, join our community of crocheters and share your creations.

Happy Crocheting!

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