Granny squares are a classic crochet staple, beloved for their versatility and charm. These squares can be joined together to create cozy blankets, stylish bags, fashionable garments, and so much more. If you’re new to crochet or looking to master this iconic square, you’ve come to the right place. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of crocheting a granny square, making it easy and fun to learn.
Materials You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather these essential supplies:
- Yarn: Worsted weight yarn is a great starting point for beginners. Choose your favorite colors!
- Crochet Hook: An H/8 (5mm) crochet hook is commonly used with worsted weight yarn, but check your yarn label for recommendations.
- Scissors: To cut the yarn.
- Tapestry Needle (Optional): For weaving in loose ends.
Basic Crochet Stitches to Know
This tutorial assumes you have a basic understanding of these crochet stitches:
- Chain (ch): The foundation of most crochet projects.
- Double Crochet (dc): A taller stitch that creates a fabric with good drape.
- Slip Stitch (sl st): Used to join rounds and finish off.
If you’re unfamiliar with these stitches, plenty of helpful video tutorials are available online to get you started.
Step-by-Step Guide to Crochet a Granny Square
Let’s dive into creating your very own granny square!
Round 1: The Center Circle
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Make a Slip Knot: Create a loop on your hook and tighten it.
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Chain 10: Chain ten stitches. The number of chains can be adjusted (5-10) depending on how large you want the center hole to be. For a larger hole, chain 10.
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Slip Stitch to Form a Circle: Insert your hook into the first chain you made, yarn over, and pull through both loops on your hook to form a circle.
Round 2: Creating the First Corner
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Chain 3: Chain three stitches. This chain 3 counts as your first double crochet.
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Double Crochet Twice: Make two double crochet stitches into the center of the circle you just created. You will now have a cluster of three double crochets (including the chain 3).
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Chain 3: Chain three stitches. This creates the first corner of your square.
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Repeat Three Times: Repeat the following sequence three more times: (Double crochet three times into the center circle, chain 3). This will create three more clusters of three double crochets and three more corners.
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Slip Stitch to Join: Slip stitch into the top of your initial chain 3 to join the round. You have now completed the second round and formed the basic square shape.
Round 3 and Beyond: Expanding the Square
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Chain 3: Chain three stitches to start the new round (counts as first double crochet).
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Double Crochet Twice: Make two double crochet stitches in the space right next to the chain 3 (the space created by the chain 3 of the previous round).
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Chain 1: Chain one stitch. This chain 1 is used for the spaces between corner spaces on the sides of the square.
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Corner: In the next corner space (the chain-3 space from the previous round), work the following: (3 double crochet, chain 3, 3 double crochet). This increases the size of the corner and maintains the square shape.
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Repeat Around: Continue this pattern around the square:
- In the next space (side space): (3 double crochet, chain 1)
- In the next corner space: (3 double crochet, chain 3, 3 double crochet)
Repeat until you have worked in all four corners.
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Slip Stitch to Join: Slip stitch to the top of the initial chain 3 to join the round.
Changing Colors
To change colors, finish the current round with a slip stitch. Clip your yarn, leaving a tail of about two inches. Pull the yarn tail through the last loop and tighten to secure. Weave in the ends using a tapestry needle or crochet hook to hide them.
Start a new loop with your new color on your crochet hook. Pull the new color through any corner space and begin your next round as described in “Round 3 and Beyond”.
Continuing for Larger Squares
Keep repeating Round 3 instructions to make your granny square as large as you desire. You can use one color or switch colors every round or row for a vibrant, multi-colored square.
Tips for Perfect Granny Squares
- Maintain Consistent Tension: Try to keep your tension even throughout your project for a uniform look.
- Yarn Choice Matters: Different yarn types will create different textures and drapes. Experiment to find your favorites!
- Hook Size: Always check the yarn label for recommended hook sizes. Adjust if needed to match your tension.
- Weave in Ends as You Go: This saves time at the end! Weave in yarn tails as you change colors or finish rounds.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve learned How To Crochet A Granny Square. With a little practice, you’ll be crocheting squares in no time. Granny squares are a fantastic foundation for countless crochet projects. Experiment with colors, yarn weights, and square sizes to unleash your creativity and craft beautiful, handmade items. Happy crocheting!
