Nothing says crochet quite like a granny square. First published over 130 years ago, these timeless motifs can be used for everything from pillows and blankets to sweaters and cardigans. I’m breaking down 4 of my favorite granny squares for your next crochet project. Use the written pattern or follow the step-by-step video tutorial to master these little squares
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SAVE THESE STITCHES FOR LATER
Crochet Granny Squares
The first thing I ever crocheted was a granny square, so these motifs hold a special place in my heart. But the world seems to be obsessed with these retro little squares. How does a classic crochet stitch have such staying power?
Why are granny squares so popular? Granny squares are nostalgic for many makers, bringing them back to their early projects. Beginners are often steered toward granny squares because they are easy to make and offer instant gratification. Even just a few rounds on a granny square can make a useable coaster or face scrubby while helping to build those foundational crochet skills.
What can I make with a granny square? The list of granny square projects is endless. Just one granny square can become a pocket for your headphones, a coaster for your desk, or a gently exfoliating face scrubby. Connect multiple granny squares to make an heirloom blanket, a cute retro top, cozy slippers, or a spacious bag. The options are endless!
Ready to learn four classic granny square patterns? Check them out in this video:
Classic Granny Square
Description: Stitch up the classic granny square for a traditional crochet look. Use up yarn scraps by changing color in each round. Continue adding rounds for a unique and cuddly throw blanket.
Round 1: In magic ring, ch 1, (3dc, ch 1) 3 times, sl st in top of first dc, turn. (12 dc)
Round 2: Sl st in ch-1 sp, ch 1, 3dc in same ch-1 sp, (3dc, ch 1, 3dc) in each ch-1 sp, 3dc in last ch-1 sp, ch 1, sl st in top of first dc, turn. (24 dc)
Round 3: Sl st in ch-1 sp, ch 1, 3dc in same ch-1 sp, [sk 3 dc, 3dc in next sp, sk 3 dc* (3dc, ch 1, 3dc) in ch-2 sp] around, ending last rep at *, 3dc in last ch-1 sp, ch 1, sl st in top of first dc, turn. (36 dc)
Round 4 and Beyond: Sl st in ch-1 sp, ch 1, 3dc in same ch-1 sp, [sk 3 dc, (3dc in next sp, sk 3 dc) to next ch-1 sp*, (3dc, ch 1, 3dc) in ch-2 sp] around, ending last rep at *, 3dc in last ch-1 sp, ch 1, sl st in top of first dc, turn.
Fasten off after the last round.
Solid Granny Square
Description: This version of a Solid Granny Square is seamless, with no unsightly join traveling up the side. Instead, join in the corners for an invisible seam that fits the rest of the motif.
Round 1: In magic ring, ch 1, (3dc, ch 1) 3 times, sl st in top of first dc, turn. (12 dc)
Round 2 and Beyond: Sl st in ch-1 sp, ch 1, 2dc in same ch-1 sp, [dc in each dc to next ch-1 sp*, (2dc, ch 1, 2dc) in ch-1 sp] around, ending last rep at *, 2dc in last ch-1 sp, ch 1, sl st in top of first dc, turn.
Fasten off after the last round.
Circle in a Square
Description: Bold and gorgeous, the Circle in A Square granny motif adds a playful touch to this classic square. Start with a simple circle, then square out the edges. This square is great for using up scraps – use two contrasting colors for an eye-catching project.
Round 1: In magic ring and with first color, ch 1, dc 12, sl st in top of first dc, turn. (12 dc)
Round 2: Ch 1, 2dc in each dc around, sl st in top of first dc, turn. (24 dc)
Round 3: Ch 1, (2dc in next dc, dc in next dc) around, sl st in first dc, turn. (36 dc)
Round 4: Ch 1, (dc in each of the next 2 sts, 2dc in next st) around, sl st in first dc. Fasten off first color.
Round 5: With second color, join with a standing treble crochet in any stitch, 2dc in same st, [dc in the next st, hdc in each of the next 2 sts, sc in each of the next 4 sts, hdc in each of the next 2 sts, dc in the next st, (2dc, tr 1) in the next st*, (tr 1, 2dc) in the next st] around, ending the last rep at *, sl st in first dc.
Round 6: Ch 1, tr in sp before next st, [2dc in next st, dc in each st to next tr, 2dc in next st*, tr in sp before next st,] around, ending last rep at *, sl st in first dc of round.
Round 7: Ch 1, (tr 1, 2dc) in same st as join, [dc in each st to next tr*, (2dc, tr 1, 2dc) in next st] around, ending last rep at *, 2dc in next st, sl st in first dc.
Fasten off after the last round.
Corner to Corner Granny Square
Description: Turn the traditional granny square on its head – literally! The Corner 2 Corner square is worked in granny stripe rows, first with simple increases, then with decreases. Get creative here – play with variegated yarns or use a solid yarn with a contrasting border.
Increase Section
Row 1: Ch 4, 4dc in the 4th ch from the hook, turn.
Row 2: Ch 3 (counts as dc throughout), 3dc in sp after first st, sk 3 dc, 4dc in sp before last st, turn.
Row 3: Ch 3, 3dc in sp after first st, sk 3 dc, 3dc in next sp, sk 3 dc, 4dc in sp before last st, turn.
Row 4: Ch 3, 3dc in sp after first st, sk 3 dc, (3dc in next sp, sk 3 dc) to sp before last st, 4dc in sp before last st, turn.
Rep Row 4 to the desired size. Proceed to Decrease Section.
Decrease Section
Row 1: Ch 3, sk first 4 dc, (3dc in next sp, sk 3 dc) to sp before last st, dc in sp before last st, turn.
Rep Row 1 until working row has two 3-dc groups.
Last Row: Ch 3, sk first 4 dc, 3dc in next sp, sk 3 dc, dc in sp before last st.
Fasten off after the last row.
Which of these granny square patterns is your favorite? Let me know in the comments!
Granny squares offer a lifetime of inspiration for home décor, wearables, accessories, and gifts! Get in the granny spirit with these free crochet patterns:
Joan Granny Sweater // Rose City Tote // Autumn Granny Square Blanket
