Do you want to learn how to crochet a granny square?
These classic square motifs are actually not a beginner friendly pattern to crochet, so we created simple instructions, a chart, and a video tutorial to help you learn right now!
Reminiscent of the nineteen seventies, the granny square pattern is the most iconic project in the world of crochet.
Around the middle of the last century, society seemed obsessed with the crochet granny square.
These popular square motifs seem to be everywhere and on everyone: afghans, pillow covers, tops, vests, bags…
So much so, that granny squares are often the very first project we learn to crochet, and then the tool we use to teach others how to crochet.
Whether you crochet or not, the granny square pattern is an iconic part of American history and culture.
Granny squares aren’t just a nod to classic crochet; they are a blank canvas for the modern crocheter to get creative, learn, and grow their craft.
Whether you’re a crochet pro, or you’re just learning basic crochet stitches, granny squares can offer a fun and accessible path into the world of crochet.
So, grab your yarn and hook, and let the granny square adventures begin!
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Estimated reading time: 12 minutes
Table of contents
What is a granny square
A granny square is a classic and versatile crochet motif that can be worked into a large square afghan, or form the building blocks for literally any type of project.
Traditionally worked in joined rounds from the center outward, a granny square is characterized by its square shape and distinct clusters of double crochet stitches and chain spaces.
The iconic granny square pattern involves creating clusters of three double crochet stitches separated by chain spaces, resulting in a textured, and openwork design.
These squares can be joined together to craft an assortment of items such as blankets, clothing, scarves, home decor, and so much more.
Granny squares are not only a timeless symbol of traditional crochet, they also serve as a blank canvas to create and personalize any type of project.
History of the granny square
According to Wikipedia, the first traditional granny square example was published in an 1885 issue of Prairie Farmer Magazine.
In it, a reader submits some notes about a new type of crochet pattern they are working on to make an afghan.
Wikipedia offers many references on the history of the classic granny square from crocheters like Debbie Stoller, Edie Eckman, and Dora Ohrenstein, making this a great place to learn more directly from some of the best sources.
My favorite note is that black ribbon was traditionally used on borders of the first granny squares, just like the black acrylic borders that are iconic to crochet afghans of the seventies.
Granny Square Skill Level
In the beginning of this article, I mentioned that the granny square pattern is not a beginner friendly project to crochet.
While this may be an unpopular opinion, this outline of the many techniques necessary to work up these motifs may help you to understand what I mean.
Complex Stitch Repeats
The first round, and each round after, is worked with a complex repeat of double crochet stitches separated by one, two, or three chains.
These stitch repeats, and their symbols, have very specific orders of operation.
Whether or not your beginning (turning) chain counts as a stitch, your repeat for the remainder of the round of stitches will be lengthy, and should require the use of multiple stitch repeat symbols to clarify what to do.
To learn the meanings behind the asterisk, bracket, and parentheses, to follow complex sets of instructions like these, here are my favorite tips: How to read a pattern with crochet repeat symbols: asterisks, brackets, and parentheses
Stitch Counting
Each round should be joined, so you’ll have to clearly identify the first stitch of each round.
Use a stitch marker to mark the top of your first stitch in each round to help you identify where you started, and where you will join: Where do stitches go in crochet: All the places and spaces to put your hook
Changing Colors In Rounds
And, if you want to change colors when you crochet a granny square, a joining technique is needed.
While this video tutorial is not a granny square, it does show how to change colors when working in joined rounds of crochet: How to change color in joined rounds of crochet
Beginner Crochet Patterns
While these are all excellent techniques to learn in crochet, the combination of them in any one project may not be the best way to teach crochet to a beginner.
If you want to learn how to crochet, or you are looking for the best way to teach others how to crochet, I’ve worked up A Guide For Beginners that offers tools and resources to help.
What do I need to crochet a granny square
Yarn
You can use any yarn you choose to crochet a granny square.
If you are following a specific crochet pattern, especially if the size or feel of the fabric should matter, then be sure to use the yarn suggested or find a subsitute.
There are many factors to consider when choosing yarn for a project, and I’ve outlined my favorite tips in this article: Understanding Yarn Substitution: An Easy Reference For Crocheters
Materials
If you are following a specific crochet pattern, especially if the size or feel of the fabric should matter, then be sure to use the crochet hook size suggested.
Typically, you can use the crochet hook size suggested on the label for the yarn you choose.
Some other tools that can be helpful to crochet a granny square are scissors, measuring tape, and a yarn needle.
Size & Gauge
In general, the size and gauge of your crochet stitches and rows, and overall project, are not crucial for this project; you can measure as you work each new round to create your own desired size and dimensions.
However, if you are following a specific crochet pattern, especially if the size or feel of the fabric should matter, then do try to match the size of the stitches and rows mentioned.
The best way to match the size and gauge of the stitches and rows for a particular pattern is to crochet a swatch, using these tips to help: How To Crochet a Swatch
Stitch Key
The classic granny square pattern is worked with basic crochet stitches in their most basic form.
To see any of these stitches worked in a video tutorial, just click on the underlined text:
- Ch(s) = chain(s)
- Dc = double crochet
- St(s) = stitch(es)
- Sl St = slip stitch
Specialty Stitch & Technique Key
To see this technique worked in a video tutorial, just click on the underlined text:
If you’re unfamiliar with the adjustable loop, or would prefer to use a more secure method, you can exchange this technique.
Begin by chaining one more than the first stitch in the first round, then work the rest of the first round into the first chain created.
Notes
- Additional rounds of the granny square may be added by repeating round 3 as desired (adding 12 Dc and 4 Ch-1 spaces per additional round).
- A granny square can be as small as one round, and as large as the total number of rounds you can crochet.
- After you complete this granny square, be sure you add your finished project to ravelry, right here: Granny Square Projects
Policy for Individual Use
This crochet pattern is designed by Salena Baca Crochet for the American Crochet Association.
Pattern instructions are protected by copyright laws.
Users must acknowledge and respect the intellectual property rights of pattern creators and designers as follows:
- This pattern is for personal use only. Pattern instructions may be accessed and used by individuals for personal, non-commercial purposes only. Users may create finished products based on the pattern instructions for personal use or gifting.
- Users may not reproduce, distribute, modify, or create derivative works of pattern instructions without explicit permission from the copyright holder.
- Selling or commercially exploiting products made from pattern instructions will require additional permissions or licensing from the copyright holder.
- It is unlawful to share or distribute pattern instructions in any way, including but not limited to: print, digital, video.
- It is unlawful to create derivative works based on pattern instructions, including but not limited to translations, adaptations, or variations.
- Users should provide proper attribution when sharing or displaying finished products made using these pattern instructions, giving credit to the original pattern creator and source.
- Users are expected to conduct themselves in an ethical and respectful manner when using pattern instructions. Users should not engage in plagiarism, claim others’ work as their own, or misrepresent the origin of pattern instructions.
By accessing and using pattern instructions, individuals agree to abide by the usage policy herein.
Users may be held responsible for any damages or legal liabilities resulting from their non-compliance with this policy.
Purchase a PDF file on Ravelry
How to crochet a granny square
Granny Square Tips
Remember, the granny square is not a beginner friendly design, so these tips may help as you work to crochet your very first motif:
- Watch the entire video tutorial first, before you follow along with your yarn and hook.
- Read the written instructions as you watch the video tutorial (they are the same)
- Follow the stitch chart as you watch the video, or as you read the written instructions (yes, they all match)
- Follow the instructions to the comma (one step at a time), work up the stitch instruction, then double check that your work matches the pattern before moving on to the very next step.
Granny Square Video Tutorial
If you’ve never worked a granny square pattern before, and would like to use a video as you read the written instructions and stitch chart, watch our How To Crochet A Granny Square Tutorial.
Granny Square Pattern Instructions
Round 1 (Right Side): Form adjustable loop, Ch 3 (first Dc, here and throughout), work 2 Dc into loop, [Ch 3, 3 Dc] 3 times, Ch 3, Sl St into top of beginning Ch-3 to join – 24 Sts; 12 Dc + 4 Ch-3 spaces
Round 2: Sl St into each of next 2 Dc, Sl St into Ch-3 space, Ch 3, (2 Dc, Ch 3, 3 Dc) into same Ch-3 space, Ch 1, [(3 Dc, Ch 3, 3 Dc) into next Ch-3 space, Ch 1] 3 times, Sl St into top of beginning Ch-3 to join – 40 Sts; 24 Dc + 4 Ch-3 spaces + 4 Ch-1 spaces
Round 3: Sl St into each of next 2 Dc, Sl St into Ch-3 space, Ch 3, (2 Dc, Ch 3, 3 Dc) into same Ch-3 space, Ch 1, (3 Dc, Ch 1) into Ch-1 space, [(3 Dc, Ch 3, 3 Dc) into next Ch-3 space, Ch 1, (3 Dc, Ch 1) into Ch-1 space] 3 times, Sl St into top of beginning Ch-3 to join – 56 Sts; 36 Dc + 4 Ch-3 spaces + 8 Ch-1 spaces
Granny Square Stitch Chart
How to join granny squares
Are you are intimidated by the though of crocheting, and then joining together, many little square motifs?
Fear not!
Whether you’re crafting a cozy blanket, a stylish garment, or a cute accessory, I’ve got nine different ways you can join your granny squares together.
So, gather those squares and let’s explore the various techniques that will seamlessly fuse your crochet squares into a masterpiece that’s greater than the sum of its parts: 9 Easy Ways To Join Crochet Pieces Together
What can I make with a granny square
After you crochet your first granny square, you might be wondering what the possibilities for this little motif are.
Sure, you can simply crochet one large square and make the classic granny blanket of your dreams, but there really is no end to what these motifs can do.
Using the very same granny square pattern you just learned, here are a few of the things you can make with this iconic design:
Projects using granny squares
Granny Square Market tote
This crochet market tote is worked with a classic granny square motif, creating a modern looking and sturdy design!
Granny Square Pillow Cover
Create your own granny square pillow cover using any yarn, and in any size you choose, with this outline of granny square instructions.
Granny Square Vest
If you love classic granny squares, give this easy vest a try! Video tutorial, crochet chart and pattern diagram included!
Granny square variations
A classic granny square is traditionally worked in joined rounds from the center outward, characterized by its square shape and distinct clusters of double crochet stitches and chain spaces.
Not every square shape in crochet is a classic granny square.
Versions of granny squares may include solid stitch work (no chain spaces), or textured crochet stitches like the bobble, popcorn, or puff.
Ways To Work A Granny Square
While our granny square pattern, chart, and video tutorial show just one variation, there are actually many ways this pattern can be worked.
I like to keep things simple, especially if you’d like to follow some of our other Granny Square Patterns as a tool to build your crochet skills.
And when you’re looking to expand your crochet skills, here are some other ways the granny square can be worked:
- Slip Stitch over to nearest Ch-3 space after each round is joined.
- Ch 3 for odd rounds (counts as 1 Double Crochet). Ch 4 for even rounds (counts as 1 Double Crochet + 1 Ch).
- Turn after each round is joined.
And while the granny square is a personal favorite pattern of mine, I do enjoy crocheting variations using the “classic granny stitch” to create new and interesting projects, like these granny stitch patterns:
Granny Stitch Patterns
Granny Chevron Table Runner
If you love the classic look of chevrons, and the granny stitch in crochet, you’ll love this piece!
Granny Stitch Triangel Scarf
This triangle scarf is worked in a classic granny square stitch motif, and quickly creates a classic looking accessory to wear!
Granny Stitch Christmas Stocking
If you love the look of classic granny squares, give this Crochet Christmas Stocking Pattern a try today with our step-by-step instructions and video tutorials!
Video Chat
To hear more about the classic granny square crochet pattern, watch my quick video chat right here: Granny Square Crochet Pattern
Click Here to share your finished project in our community!
Peace + Love + Crochet
Salena
