What is a Granny Square
The Granny Square is one of the simplest, basic crochet motifs. A crochet motif is any small crochet shape that is joined together to make something bigger. It makes use of the double crochet stitch in clusters, crocheted in the round to form a bigger – you guessed it – square!
Granny Squares are really easy to make and are one of the first projects a beginner crocheter can make. They are usually made with the basic double crochet, chain stitches and slip stitches. Make a couple of squares and attach them together to make a small pouch or even a blanket!
Construction Method
Granny squares are worked from the center going outwards. The squares are crocheted in joined rounds, each round closed with a slip stitch. The rounds consist of a repeated pattern of motifs.
The Classic Granny Square is made with a Granny stitch or a double crochet stitch cluster which is made up of 3 double crochets in the same stitch or space. They are separated with a ch-1 space in between and ch-3 spaces at the corners.
Variations
Granny Squares come in different motifs. There are super easy variations like the Classic and Solid. There are Flower variations like the Daisy and the Sunflower. There are even 3D layered Granny Squares! You can even use the motif to create different Granny shapes, such as triangles and hexagons.
Supplies
- Worsted Weight yarn (4) such as Lion Brand Pima Cotton, Basic Stitch Anti Pilling Yarn, 24/7 Cotton Yarn, Wool Ease Yarn, Pound of Love Yarn, Universal Yarn Uptown Worsted or Vanna’s Choice Yarn
- H (5mm) size crochet hook
- Scissors
- Tapestry needle
- Tape measure (optional)
- Stitch markers (optional)
Pattern Notes
- The pattern is written using US crochet terms.
- The Granny Square is worked in the round, joined with slip stitches at the end of each round.
- Do not turn work at the end of each round.
- The clusters are crocheted into the ch spaces of the previous round
- If you are making multiple granny squares, make sure you get the same size, crochet with a relaxed, even tension. You may also use a blocking board to ensure that the Granny squares maintain their square shape.
Stitch Abbreviations
- st – stitch
- ch – chain
- Dc – double crochet
- Mr – magic ring
- Sl st – slip stitch
- Yo – yarn over
Special Stitches
- Granny Stitch Cluster – 3 double crochet stitches in the same space
How to Crochet a Classic Granny Square
For this step by step tutorial, we will make a classic variation which is made up of double crochet clusters and chain spaces.
Step 1: Make a magic ring, ch 3.
*Alternatively you may also start your Granny Square in a single chain or in a chain stitch center ring (see below)
Round 1: Insert hook into the magic ring and make 2 dc, ch 2 – this is your first cluster.
(3dc, ch 2) repeat 3 times
Ch 2, sl st into the top of the 3rd chain.
At the end of the first round of the granny, you should have 4 double crochet clusters (12 dc + 4 ch 2 spaces)
Round 2: To begin the next round, ch 4 (this first chain counts as a dc + ch-1)
(3dc, ch2, 3dc, ch1) into each of the 4 corner spaces,
2dc, sl st into the 3rd ch of the beginning ch 4.
You should have (24 dc, 4 ch 1 sp, 4 ch 2 sp)
Round 3: ch 3 (this counts as the first dc in the granny cluster), 2dc in the same ch sp
Ch 1, (3dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in the first corner, 3dc in the next space, ch 1. Repeat 2 more times.
(3dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in the last corner sp, ch 1. Sl st into the top of the 3rd ch. Fasten off.
At the end of this round, you should have (36 dc, 8 ch 1 sp, 4 ch 2 sp)
3 Ways to Start a Granny Square
Option 1: Start in a single chain
Step 1: Ch 4
Step 2: 2 dc into the first st, ch 2
Step 3: (3 dc, ch 2) repeat 3x
Step 4: Sl st into the top of the first ch 3
Option 2: Chain Stitch Center Ring
Step 1: Chain 4, sl st to the first stitch
Step 2: Ch 3 (counts as a dc), (2 dc into the center ring, ch 2)
Step 3: (3dc, ch 2) repeat 3x
Step 4: Sl st into the top of the ch 3
Option 3: Magic Ring (aka Magic Circle)
Step 1: Make a magic ring. Ch 3 (counts as the first dc)
Step 2: 2 dc, ch2, (3dc, ch2) repeat 3x
Step 3: Pull the tail to close the magic ring. Sl st into the top of the ch 3
Changing Colors in Granny Squares
Fasten off at the end of the round. On your hook, make a slip knot with the new color. Insert the hook into any ch 2 sp, ch 3.
18 Easy Crochet Granny Square Patterns
Learning how to crochet a granny square is so crucial as it’s a fundament basic crochet stitch. It’s simple and fun, and quick too. Not to mention a this type of pattern can be worked on, on the go and then seamed together into whatever crochet project you’re working on.
The granny square is one of the easiest and most versatile crochet patterns around. It can be used to make crochet blankets, scarves, bags, tops, cardigans, and a myriad of easy crochet patterns. You can add color and style to your wardrobe and home alike when you learn this crochet technique.
You’ll see from the list of granny square patterns below that there are a lot of options and variations to the original, traditional crochet design. You can use any type of yarn or size of crochet hook – anything goes. They may look complicated but once you learn the process, you’ll be able to do it in your sleep.
This list of easy granny square patterns is diverse and full of creativity. You can’t go wrong, so just choose a pattern and fly with it.
Classic Granny Square
Granny squares are such an iconic part of crochet history, as that is how grandmothers and mothers taught daughters, who became mothers themselves whom in turn also taught their own daughters. If you are a crochet newbie who’s learning how to crochet and might not have a clue about how to crochet a granny square, this is perfect for you!
Via Hopeful Honey
Solid Granny Square
This solid granny square starts from a double crochet circle and it has treble crochet with chain stitches at the corners. You will need to know how to make the basic crochet stitches like the chain (ch), double crochet (dc), treble crochet (tr) and slip stitch (sl) in order to crochet this solid granny square.
Via CraftPassion
Circle to Square Granny Square
What makes this granny square different is that it’s solid and begins as a circle and gradually turns into a square. Just like a classic granny square crochet pattern, the possibilities for these little suckers are really endless!
Via Just Be Crafty
Beautiful Granny Square
Who loves elegant and cute creations? This is a nice chance to create a granny square step by step with their own hands in just a brief amount of your time. A very beautiful and attractive pattern with a modern design.
Via Ilove-Crochet
Simple Granny Square Blanket
The crochet granny square is popular in the center part of the world. It is, in its simplest forms, one of the easiest crochet patterns you will learn to make, and yet it can create some of the most impressive works.
Traditional Granny Square
This square pattern works up really fast because you’re crocheting into spaces instead of the top of the actual stitch! Now let’s get into the learning process!
Via Sigoni Macaroni
Colorful Granny Square
Granny crochet squares have been around for ages and seem to resurge in popularity over and over again. This is probably because they are quick, easy, and oh, so versatile. They are also a great way to use up your yarn scraps! Use these to make a traditional granny square blanket.
Via Petals To Picots
Crochet Blanket Square
To make this simple granny square crochet pattern. You will need three different colors of worsted weight yarn, a size H crochet hook and some free time. The best thing about this crochet project is that it is a great scrap buster project and a quick one at that!
The Granny Flower Square
The easy granny square flower pattern is probably the most simple crochet flower motif out there and can be used to make almost anything your imagination can think of.
Via Lullaby Lodge
Seriously Simple Granny Square
This basic granny square is really so simple. You can use whatever yarn you like, and the crochet hook to match. Gauge isn’t important in this one. With a quick step-by-step photo tutorial, you will be whipping these up in no time!
Via Missneris
Sunburst Granny Square
Made in chunky yarn, the results are so cozy and plush, and perfect for so many winter crochet projects. Get started with this granny square pattern, which you’ve just got to try!
The Solid Granny Square
The solid granny square is so simple to work up. You can make some using up leftover yarn, and turn it into an afghan when you are done. Also, this is something that you can use as an on-the-go project when you are traveling somewhere.
Via YarnHild
Basic Granny Squares
If you wanted to work on a crochet project that used granny squares you have to learn the basics first. This granny square crochet pattern will show you the crochet basics like making the loop, what a chain is and so on.
Easy Granny Square
This easy granny square pattern is a variation on the classic variation. It uses the same first two rounds as a basic granny square, then you finish it with two more rounds of single crochet stitches.
The Ultimate Granny Square
This basic motif is the building block of the more complex granny square variations. Granny Square Patterns are not only made into functional afghans and crochet blankets but can actually be used to create booties, skirts, purses, etc. They are so fashionable and versatile!
Simple Granny Square
This is crochet for beginners granny square. This pretty cotton pattern turns into a dishcloth or a classic afghan – so many options in between!
Via Melanie Ham
Lily Pad Granny Square
This simple pattern will show you how to make a pretty granny square. The design is a little more advanced out of the other free patterns on this list, so if you’re looking for a challenge, this is for you.
Block Granny Square
If you are just starting to learn how to crochet, this pattern is an ideal one, to begin with. You put these granny squares together to make blankets, but now they can be used for practically anything i.e tote bags, covers, kitchen items, hot pads etc.
Via Crochet N Create
Crochet granny squares are so simple and fun to make. With so many free granny square patterns, you’ll be stitching up a storm. There’s no reason not to give these crochet patterns a try.
Make a basic granny square or practice how to join the squares together. Whatever your goal, you’re going to have a great time making these.
If you’re new to crochet and looking for some great foundational videos to help you develop your skills quickly and easily, visit the Crochet Fundamentals professionally filmed classes.
Looking for more great crochet patterns: 50+ CROCHET SQUARE PATTERNS
10 Double Crochet Blanket Patterns
17 Easy Crochet Scarf Patterns
