Easy Crochet Granny Squares

The granny square is one of the most iconic and versatile crochet patterns ever created. These colorful, modular squares have adorned everything from vintage afghans to modern fashion pieces, and their enduring popularity stems from their simple construction and endless creative possibilities. If you’re new to crochet or looking to expand your skills, learning how to make an easy crochet granny square is the perfect starting point for countless beautiful projects.

Why Granny Squares Are Perfect for Beginners

Granny squares have remained popular for generations, and for good reason. They’re approachable for beginners yet versatile enough to keep experienced crocheters engaged. Here’s why granny squares deserve a spot in every crocheter’s repertoire:

They use just a few basic stitches that are easy to master
You can complete a square in a single sitting for instant gratification
They’re perfect for using up small amounts of leftover yarn
Once made, they can be combined into countless projects from blankets to garments
Their modular nature means you can work on small, portable pieces rather than lugging around a large project

The classic granny square design consists of groups of double crochet stitches separated by chain spaces, creating a distinctive lacy appearance. Though there are countless variations, mastering the basic pattern will give you a solid foundation for exploring more complex designs later.

Materials Needed for Easy Crochet Granny Squares

Before you begin crocheting your granny square, gather these supplies:

Yarn

For beginners: Medium-weight (worsted/category 4) yarn in your choice of colors
Suggested options: Acrylic yarns like Lion Brand Basic Stitch, Red Heart Super Saver, or Caron Simply Soft
Amount: Small amounts of yarn are sufficient for individual squares—perfect for using scraps

Hook

Size H/5.0mm hook for worsted weight yarn
Adjust hook size up or down depending on your yarn weight and tension

Notions

Scissors for cutting yarn
Tapestry needle for weaving in ends

Essential Techniques for Granny Squares

Before diving into the pattern, familiarize yourself with these basic techniques if you’re new to crochet:

Starting Methods

You have three options for starting your granny square:

Magic ring (recommended): Creates a tightly closed center with no hole
Chain ring: A quick method using a ring of chain stitches, though it leaves a more noticeable center hole
Starting in a single chain: Simple but can be challenging to fit all stitches into one chain

Basic Stitches

These fundamental stitches form the building blocks of the classic granny square:

Chain stitch (ch): Creates the foundation and spaces between stitch clusters
Double crochet (dc): The main stitch used in traditional granny squares
Slip stitch (sl st): Used to join rounds
Granny cluster: A group of three double crochet stitches worked into a chain space

Step-by-Step Basic Granny Square Pattern

This pattern will create a classic granny square. I’ll walk you through each round in detail, perfect for beginners who appreciate thorough instructions.

Round 1: Creating the Center

Start with a magic ring. (If you’re unfamiliar with this technique, it involves creating an adjustable loop with your yarn that can be tightened after working stitches into it.)
Chain 3 (counts as your first double crochet).
Work 2 more double crochet stitches into the magic ring. This forms your first “granny cluster” of 3 double crochets.
Chain 3 (this creates your first corner).
Work another cluster of 3 double crochets into the magic ring.
Chain 3 again for the second corner.
Repeat steps 5-6 two more times, so you have a total of 4 clusters and 4 chain-3 spaces.
Join the round by making a slip stitch into the top of the beginning chain-3.
Pull the magic ring tight to close the center.

At this point, you should have a small square shape with four clusters of 3 double crochets separated by chain-3 spaces at the corners.

Round 2: Building the Square

Turn your work over so you’re looking at the “wrong side.” (Turning after each round helps maintain a square shape rather than having it twist.)
Chain 3 (counts as your first double crochet).
Work 2 more double crochets in the first corner chain-3 space. This is your first cluster in round 2.
In the same corner space, chain 3, then work another cluster of 3 double crochets. This creates your first complete corner.
Chain 1 (this creates the space between corners that you’ll work into in later rounds).
In the next corner space, work a cluster of 3 double crochets, chain 3, and another cluster of 3 double crochets. Chain 1.
Repeat step 6 for the remaining two corner spaces.
Slip stitch to the top of the beginning chain-3 to complete the round.

After round 2, your square will have distinctive corners with two clusters in each corner separated by a chain-3 space.

Round 3: Adding More Texture

Turn your work over again so the “right side” is facing you.
Chain 3 (counts as your first double crochet).
Work 2 more double crochets in the first chain-1 space from the previous round.
Chain 1.
For the corner: Work a cluster of 3 double crochets into the corner chain-3 space, chain 3, work another cluster of 3 double crochets in the same space. Chain 1.
Work a cluster of 3 double crochets in the next chain-1 space. Chain 1.
Repeat steps 5-6 for the remaining sides and corners of the square.
Join with a slip stitch to the top of the beginning chain-3.

Round 4: Continuing the Pattern

Turn your work over so the “wrong side” is facing you.
Chain 3, work 2 more double crochets in the first chain-1 space. Chain 1.
Work a cluster of 3 double crochets in the next chain-1 space. Chain 1.
For the corner: Work a cluster of 3 double crochets into the corner chain-3 space, chain 3, work another cluster of 3 double crochets in the same space. Chain 1.
Work a cluster of 3 double crochets in each chain-1 space along the side, with a chain-1 between each cluster.
Repeat steps 4-5 for the remaining sides and corners of the square.
Join with a slip stitch to the top of the beginning chain-3.

Round 5: Completing the Square

Turn your work over so the “right side” is facing you.
Chain 3, work 2 more double crochets in the first chain-1 space. Chain 1.
Work a cluster of 3 double crochets in each chain-1 space along the side, with a chain-1 between each cluster.
For the corner: Work a cluster of 3 double crochets into the corner chain-3 space, chain 3, work another cluster of 3 double crochets in the same space. Chain 1.
Repeat steps 3-4 for the remaining sides and corners of the square.
Join with a slip stitch to the top of the beginning chain-3.
Fasten off and weave in ends.

You now have a completed classic granny square! You can continue adding more rounds following the established pattern to make a larger square.

Creating Multi-Colored Granny Squares

One of the most appealing aspects of granny squares is the opportunity to play with color. Here’s how to create a multi-colored square:

Option 1: Changing Colors Every Round

Complete Round 1 with your first color.
Cut yarn, leaving a 6-inch tail, and fasten off.
Join your new color in any corner chain-3 space by pulling up a loop.
Continue with Round 2 using the new color.
Repeat this process for each subsequent round, changing colors as desired.

Option 2: Strategic Color Placement

For more intricate color patterns, you can change colors within a round:

Work until the point where you want to change colors.
Complete the last stitch before the color change, but stop before the final yarn over and pull through.
Yarn over with the new color and pull through to complete the stitch.
Continue working with the new color.

Common Granny Square Troubleshooting

Even experienced crocheters occasionally run into issues when making granny squares. Here are solutions to the most common problems:

Twisted or Skewed Square

Problem: Your square is starting to twist or spiral rather than lay flat. Solution: Be sure to turn your work after each round. This alternates the direction of your stitches and prevents the spiral effect.

Inconsistent Size

Problem: Your squares aren’t the same size despite using the same pattern. Solution: Check your tension and make sure you’re using the same hook size. Blocking your finished squares can also help even out minor differences.

Visible Holes Where Rounds Meet

Problem: You can see gaps where you’ve joined rounds. Solution: Make sure you’re joining with a slip stitch to the top of the beginning chain-3, not into a space. Also, ensure your initial chain-3 counts as a double crochet.

Rounded Corners

Problem: Your corners aren’t sharp and distinct. Solution: Make sure you’re creating proper corners with a cluster, chain-3, cluster sequence. The chain-3 space is essential for creating sharp corners.

Creative Variations on the Classic Granny Square

Once you’ve mastered the basic granny square, try these popular variations:

Solid Granny Square

This variation eliminates the holes for a more solid fabric, perfect for practical items like potholders or baby blankets. Instead of working clusters into chain spaces, you’ll work directly into stitches.

Sunburst Granny Square

A sunburst square features a beautiful floral design in the center, created with puff stitches or front post stitches, before transitioning to the traditional granny pattern for the outer rounds.

Textured Granny Square

Add visual interest by incorporating textured stitches like popcorns, puffs, or bobbles into your granny squares for a three-dimensional effect.

Giant Granny Square

Rather than making multiple squares and joining them, you can continue adding rounds to a single square to create an entire blanket in the granny pattern.

Projects to Make with Granny Squares

The possibilities for using granny squares are virtually endless. Here are some popular projects to inspire you:

Blankets and Afghans

The most traditional use for granny squares is to create cozy blankets. Join multiple squares in a grid pattern, or create a giant continuous granny square.

Clothing and Accessories

Cardigans and Sweaters: Join squares to create trendy garments
Bags and Totes: Sew squares together and add handles
Scarves and Shawls: Arrange squares in a strip or triangle
Fingerless Gloves: Small squares can become wrist warmers

Home Décor

Pillows: Join squares and add backing for decorative cushions
Coasters: Single squares make perfect drink coasters
Table Runners: Arrange squares in a long rectangle
Wall Hangings: Mount and frame special squares as art

Joining Granny Squares

Once you’ve created multiple squares, you’ll need to join them together. Here are the most popular methods:

Whip Stitch Join

The simplest joining method, where you sew squares together using a tapestry needle and yarn. Place squares right sides together or edge-to-edge and stitch through both layers.

Slip Stitch Join

A decorative join worked with a crochet hook. Place squares right sides up, edge-to-edge, and slip stitch through both layers.

Single Crochet Join

Creates a raised seam that adds texture to your project. Work single crochet stitches through both squares to create a strong join.

Flat Braid Join

A more decorative option that creates a flat braid between squares, adding visual interest to your project.

Blocking Your Granny Squares

Blocking is the process of wetting or steaming your finished crochet work and shaping it to the correct dimensions as it dries. This step is especially helpful for granny squares:

Soak your squares in lukewarm water with a mild detergent designed for handwashing.
Gently press out excess water (don’t wring or twist).
Lay squares on a blocking board or padded surface.
Pin the corners and edges to create a perfect square shape.
Allow to dry completely before removing pins.

Blocking helps even out stitches, makes joining easier, and gives your finished project a more professional appearance.

Tips for Granny Square Success

Count your stitches: Ensure you have the correct number of clusters and chains in each round
Use stitch markers: Mark the beginning of rounds to avoid confusion
Weave in ends as you go: This makes the finishing process much easier
Keep a consistent tension: This helps your squares remain the same size
Store work-in-progress squares flat: This prevents them from becoming misshapen

Conclusion

The easy crochet granny square is more than just a beginner-friendly pattern—it’s a versatile building block for countless creative projects. From colorful blankets to trendy garments, these simple squares offer endless possibilities for self-expression through crochet.

By mastering the basic granny square pattern outlined in this guide, you’ve added a classic technique to your crochet repertoire that will serve you well for years to come. Whether you make a single square as a coaster or hundreds for a family heirloom blanket, the humble granny square remains one of the most satisfying and adaptable patterns in the crochet world.

Start with a single square today, and you might find yourself with a beautiful blanket, stylish garment, or cherished gift before you know it. Happy crocheting!