How to Crochet Granny Squares for Beginners

A classic crochet granny square is such a versatile stitch, that can be created in many different sizes, and used in all kinds of crochet projects. In the details that follow, you and I are going to explore together, how to crochet granny squares, we are going to cover the traditional granny squares, as well as several other different ways you can make different granny squares.

As you may have guessed from the name granny square, this is a type of crochet stitch used to make square motifs. This specific pattern can be used in a variety of projects, usually, all projects that end up being in the shape of a square project. They can be used in small projects such as a basic crochet pattern for a pillowcase, or in a larger project, such as a granny square blanket.

These crochet squares are the perfect project, if you are a beginner or even an advanced crocheter. There are so many different things that can be done with these beautiful, yet traditional crochet stitches.

In the crochet tutorial below, we are going to walk you through the different materials you will need to make a crocheted granny square, as well as the different types of crochet granny squares you can make as well. Let’s start by looking at the type of yarn you can use for this crocheted granny square project.

What is a granny square?

A granny square is a specific type of crochet stitch. This is often a reccomended place for beginners to start. The granny square is a square shape crochet project, that can be worked in a variety of ways.

Consturction Method

The basic crochet granny square is worked from the center out. The construction method is made by working out, and creating a square as you go. Then you continue to work the square out, until the granny squares get to the size you want them to be.

Granny Square Variations

There are a lot of different types of granny square patterns you can make. There is the classic granny square that is worked in the chain spaces creating a pretty holey pattern. Another easy type of crochet granny square is called the solid granny square. With this pattern, there are minimual holes in each square.

The other types of crochet granny squares are made with a combination of stitch patterns. These other crochet granny square patterns give you a really pretty finished look.

What is the best yarn for granny squares?

The most common type of yarn to use for making granny squares is worsted weight yarn. This is a nice yarn weight to use, because it is easy to work with, but still provides nice sized granny squares.

You can pick up new skeins of worsted weight yarn at Hobby Lobby, or other craft stores near you, or you can even use a little bit of scrap yarn for smaller granny square projects.

You can use a single color, to make solid color granny squares, or you can change the color of the yarn with each round of the granny squares that are made. It’s entirely up to you if you want to use one color for each granny square or make each granny square different colors every time around.

Crochet Hook Size

The size of the crochet hook that you choose to use will depend on how heavy your yarn is. If you are buying a new package of worsted weight yarn, the label will give you a suggested hook size. Usually, around size I, or a 5.5 mm hook will work well for most worsted weight yarn.

Basic Stitches to Make a Granny Square

sl st – slip stitch

slip knot

mr – magic circle (magic ring)

dc – double crochet stitches

ch – chain stitches

sc – single crochet

tr – treble crochet stitch

Granny Clusters

Most granny stitch clusters are made using double crochet. Typically, most granny square patterns, have three double crochets made in the same stitch, to form what is sometimes referred to as a granny cluster.

Often, if a granny square pattern specifically says granny clusters, this is made by creating three partial double crochets in the same stitch, then yarning over one last time, and pulling through for loops on the hook, to form a double crochet cluster, or as referred to in a granny square, a granny cluster.

To make a granny cluster, yarn over and insert the hook into the stitch indicated, yarn over and pull up a loop, and yarn over and pull through the first two loops on the hook. Repeat this process two more times, until you have four loops remaining on the hook, and three partial double crochet is made.

Yarn over one last time and pull through all four loops on the hook to create the cluster.

Chain Space

When creating a granny square, the next round is worked in the previous round’s chain space. This is what creates the square pattern’s uniqueness and gives it the beautiful holes which create the iconic pattern.

Granny Stitch

A granny stitch is typically worked as a granny square but can also be worked in flat rows. When it is worked in rows, it still creates the nice texture of a granny square, but it is not usually worked as a square shape.

Materials Needed to Make Granny Squares

Worsted weight yarn

5.5 mm crochet hook

Yarn needle or tapestry needle

Please note that this pattern is written in us terms

Skill Level: beginner crocheters

Ways to Start a Granny Square

There are two main ways you can choose to start a crochet granny square. Let’s look at what each of these options includes.

Option 1: Chain Two Method

The first option is the easiest, but it might not let you close the center as tight as you want. To use the chain two method, except in this case, you will want to use chain 4. The first three stitches closest to your hook count as the first double crochet stitch. Then work your double crochet stitches in the 4th chain from your hook.

Option 2: Magic Ring

A magic ring is an adjustable ring to make your stitches in. The nice thing about a magic ring is that you can adjust it and make it nice and tight if you want. For a full tutorial on how to make a magic ring, check out this detailed tutorial.

Crochet Granny Squares in 4 Ways

Classic Granny Square Pattern

A basic granny square pattern is worked as a square crochet pattern using the chain spaces from the previous rounds to work the next round’s stitches in. Here is the pattern to learn how to make a classic crochet granny square. Let’s get started with this basic granny square tutorial!

Round 1: make a slip knot, then ch 4. Into the 4th ch from the hook, make 2 dc, ch 2, (3 dc, ch 2) 3 times. Join with a sl st to the first chain made at the beginning to finish the round.

The first round is now complete, with four 3 dc sections, and four ch-2 spaces.

If desired, change the color at this point before starting the next round.

Round 2: ch 3 (this ch 3 counts as the first double crochet now and throughout), work 2 dc in the same ch-2 space from the previous round. *Ch 1, in the next ch 2 space, make (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc)* to make the next corner. Repeat from * to * 3 times. Then ch 1, 3 dc, ch 1 in the same ch 2 space as the first double crochet stitches. Join with sc to the top of the first ch 3 space.

Round 3: ch 3, 2 dc in the first corner space. *Ch 1, in the next ch-1 space from the previous row, make 3 dc, ch 1, then in the corner space, make 3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc*. Repeat from * to * 3 times. Ch 1, 3 dc in next ch 1 space, ch 1, 3 dc in the final corner, ch 1, sc to the first ch 3 space to join the round.

Round 4: ch 3, 2 dc in the same space. *Ch 1, 3 dc in the next ch 1 space, ch 1, 3 dc in the next ch 1 space, ch 1, then make 3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc in the corner*. Repeat from * to * 3 times. Ch 1, 3 dc in next ch 1 space, ch 1, 3 dc in last ch 1 space, then make 3 dc in the first corner space, ch 1, sc to the 3rd ch space to join to the beginning of the round.

You can continue these rounds until the granny square is your desired size. For the sides, you will continue working 3 dc stitches in the previous rounds’ ch 1 space, with ch 1 in between. Then on the corner, work 3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc.

Continue increasing the granny square in this manner until it is the size you want. Or you can make them into as small squares as you wish. A common small granny square is to only make rounds one and two.

When you are finished, finish off the square, leaving a long tail of yarn to sew the granny squares together.

Remember, you can change to different color yarn, with each granny square, or with each round made.

Solid Granny Square

A granny square can also be made into a solid square. This is a fun variation of the traditional granny square pattern. To make this solid stitch in a square shape, found these simple steps to make the perfect solid granny. Let’s walk through the steps so you can learn how to make a solid crochet granny square.

Round 1: ch 4, in the 4th ch from the hook make 2 dc, ch 2, 3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc, ch 1. Sc to the top of the first ch space to join.

Round 2: ch 3 (this ch 3 counts as the first dc now and throughout), in the same stitch, make a dc stitch. *Dc in each of the next dc 3 stitches, in the next ch 2 space, make 2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc*. Repeat from * to * 3 times. Dc in the next 3 dc stitches from the previous round. Finally, in the last ch space, make 2 dc, ch 1, and join with sc to the top of the first ch 3 stitch.

Round 3: ch 3, in the first ch space, make 1 dc. Then make a dc in each of the next dc spaces. In the next corner work *2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc, and make a dc in each of the next dc stitches*. Repeat from * to * 3 times. In the last ch 2 space, work 2 dc, ch 1, and join with sc to the top ch space.

Round 4: ch 3, make 1 dc in the same space, then dc in each of the next dc spaces. In the next corner, space make 2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc. In each of the next dc work a dc in each st. Repeat from * to * around. In the last space, make 2 dc, ch 2. Join with a sl st to the first stitch. Finish off by leaving a long tail for sewing.

Please note that this solid granny square pattern can also be made as small or as large as you would like each square to be. After all of the squares have been made, the easiest way to assemble them is by sewing them together.

Also please note that for rounds 3 and 4, you may want to decrease the double crochet stitches made in the corner if you are having difficulty with the square not holding its basic shape. If needed you can work 2 dc, ch 2, dc in each corner rather than the standard 3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc.

Daisy Granny Square

A daisy granny square is a beautiful variation of your traditional granny square pattern. To make a daisy granny square, I recommend using three different colors. One for the center of the flowers, one for the flower petals, and finally an additional color for the border of your granny square. Let’s jump into the pattern to learn how to crochet a daisy granny square!

Round 1: using the center color (I used yellow) ch 4, into the 4 ch from the hook, make 8 dc, join with a sl st to the first dc.

Round 2: change to the petal color (I used white). Ch 2, make a beginning granny cluster in the first dc space, ch 2. In each of the next dc stitches, make the granny square cluster for the petals, ch 2 in between each petal. Make 1 beginning granny cluster, and 7 granny square clusters for the petals, resulting in 8 total petals, with ch 2 spaces in between. Join with a slip stitch to the top of the first petal made.

Beginning Granny Cluster

*Yarn Over (YO), insert the hook into the stitch indicated. YO and pull up a loop, YO and pull through the first two loops on your hook*. Repeat from * to * 3 times. There are now 4 loops on your crochet hook. YO and pull through all 4 loops. The first petal is now complete.

Granny Square Cluster for the Petals

*YO, insert the hook into the stitch indicated. YO and pull up a loop, YO and pull through the first two loops on your hook*. Repeat from * to * 4 times. There are now 5 loops on your crochet hook. YO and pull through all 5 loops. Repeat this stitch for each petal.

Round 3: change the yarn to your border color (I used a light mint green color). Ch 3, into the first ch 2 space from the previous round, make 2 dc. *Ch 1, in the next ch space, make 3 dc, ch 1, in the next ch space, make 3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc*. Repeat from * to * 3 times. Ch 1, 3 dc in next ch space, then in the last ch space, make 3 dc, ch 1, join with a sc to the first ch space.

Round 4: Using the same color as round 3, ch 3, in the same space make 2 dc, ch 1, in the next ch space, make 3 dc, ch 1, 3 dc in the next ch space, ch 1. At the corner work, 3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc. Repeat from * to * 3 times. Ch 1, in the next space, make 3 dc, ch 1, 3 dc in the next space, ch 1, in the last space make 3 dc, ch 2. Join with a sl st to the first ch space.

Another great way to make round 4 is to make it solid. This would mean working the corners the same, making 3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc in each corner. Then for each side, you would make a dc in each of the previous rounds dc, as well as one dc in the ch 1 space from the previous round. It is entirely a matter of your personal preference as to making round 4 like a traditional granny square or like a solid granny square.

When your daisy granny squares are made to size, finish off, then assemble the squares with the same color yarn as you used on rounds three and four.

Sunburst Granny Square

A starburst granny square is typically made with a different color for every round. This square variation starts out as a circle, then turned into a square by the end. Usually, a sunburst granny square is made using a variety of different shades of similar colors, hence the name sunburst. Let’s jump into to the pattern so you can learn how to crochet a sunburst granny square.

Round 1: ch 4, in the 4th ch from the hook make 15 dc sts. Join with a sl st to the first ch space to form a circle.

Round 2: change to a new color if desired. Ch 2, make another dc in the first dc stitch. *Ch 1, then make a two double crochet cluster in the next stitch*. Repeat from * to * around. Join with a sc st to the top of the beginning cluster made.

Round 3: change to a new color. Ch 2, make a beginning four double crochet cluster on top of the last sc st made. Ch 1, in the next ch space make a four double crochet cluster, ch 1. Repeat from * to * around. Join with a sc to the top of the first cluster made.

Round 4: change to a new color. Ch 3, make 2 tr in the same st. *Ch 1, in the next ch space, make 3 dc, ch 1, in the next ch space, make 3 dc, ch 1, 3 dc in the next ch space, ch 1. In the next ch space, make a corner by creating 3 tr, ch 2, 3 tr*. Repeat from * to *3 times. On the last side, make ch 1, 3 dc in the next ch space, ch 1, 3 dc in the next ch sp, ch 1, and 3 dc in the last ch sp, ch 1. In the last corner, make 3 tr, ch 2. Join with a sl st to the first ch space to finish.

Two Double Crochet Cluster

*YO, insert the hook into the st indicated, YO, and pull up a loop. YO and pull through the first two loops on the hook*. Repeat from * to * one more time. There are now three loops on the hook. YO one last time and pull through all three loops on the hook.

Beginning Four Double Crochet Cluster

*YO, insert the hook into the st indicated, YO, and pull up a loop. YO and pull through the first two loops on the hook*. Repeat from * to * two times more. There are now four loops on the hook. YO one last time and pull through all four loops on the hook.

Four Double Crochet Cluster

*YO, insert the hook into the st indicated, YO, and pull up a loop. YO and pull through the first two loops on the hook*. Repeat from * to * three times more. There are now five loops on the hook. YO one last time and pull through all five loops on the hook.

Making Larger Granny Squares

Making larger granny squares is easy. To make larger granny squares, you simply keep working your way out, until the square reaches your desired size.

Changing Colors in Granny Squares

If you decide you want to change colors in making your granny square. You can easily do this, as you work the rounds. It is best to keep an entire round the same color. After that you can change colors, then come back, tie a knot, and wave in any yarn end.

Granny Square FAQs

What is the best size crochet hook for granny squares?

You can use any size crochet hook that you prefer when making granny squares. Make sure that the yarn size you are using is a good fit for your hook size. Typically starting with a middle size crochet hook, like a size H is a great place to begin.

Do you need to block granny squares?

Although it is not required, it is a good idea to block granny squares. This way they end up being the same size, and lay nice and smooth.

How long does it take to crochet a granny square?

Exactly how long it takes to crochet a granny square will depend on you, and your skill level of crochet. It’s always a good idea to take your time and do a good job practicing your crochet stitches.

How many granny squares does it take to make a blanket?

How many granny squares it takes to make a blanket will depend on the size of blanket you are making. In general for a six inch granny square, it will take approximately the following number of granny squares by blanket size:

Throw blanket (52×60″) 90 granny squares

Twin (66×90″) 195 granny squares

Full (80×90″) 150 granny squares

Queen (90×100″) 255 granny squares

King (108×100″) 306 granny squares

Free Download for Granny Square Patterns

I have also created a free pattern download for your convenience. If you would like to receive a written pattern, that you can easily print out and use at your convenience, then you might consider downloading this free crochet pattern. The download includes each of the granny square patterns outlined above.

Please note that this free download is for your personal use only and should not be used for commercial distribution under any circumstances.

How to Assemble

After your granny squares are created, you might wonder how to go about assembling them into a finished product. There are so many different things you can make with granny squares. First, you want to determine how many granny squares you need to make, and how they should be laid out.

When you have your granny squares laid out how they should go, you are going to want to turn the granny squares so that the wrong sides are facing each other.

One of the basic ways you can attach granny squares is by taking a yarn needle and whip-stitching them together. This is one method that can be done quite easily, however, the downside of this is that you will need to use the same color yarn as the outside border of the granny squares otherwise it could show through.

Another great option is to use your desired color yarn and chain the granny squares together from one to the other. Another option is to create a slip stitch between the two squares as you work or create a border that you can incorporate the granny squares together as you go.

Still another option is when you continue the three double crochet clusters, for each square, then chain two in between. When you do this, you can alternate which side of the granny squares you’re stitching in, resulting in a stitch that will hold them together.

Learning How to Crochet Granny Squares

There are so many ways you can make beautiful granny squares. From the basic crochet granny square, to pretty stitches such as the Daisy granny square, or Starburst granny square.

There are so many different options. Now that you know some of the most popular, and basic stitches used to create big granny squares, you can get started making your own project using granny squares. I hope that you have enjoyed this tutorial and that it has been very helpful for you!

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How to Make a Crochet Granny Square

Keyword: classic granny square, daisy granny square, granny square crochet pattern, how to crochet granny squares, learn to crochet granny squares, solid granny square, sunburst granny square

Materials

Yarn worsted weight or medium weight are a great place to start
5.5 mm crochet hook
Yarn needle
scissors

Instructions

Classic Granny Square

Round 1: make a slip knot, then ch 4. Into the 4th ch from the hook, make 2 dc, ch 2, (3 dc, ch 2) 3 times. Join with a sl st to the first chain made at the beginning to finish the round.
The first round is now complete, with four 3 dc sections, and four ch-2 spaces.
If desired, change the color at this point before starting the next round.
Round 2: ch 3 (this ch 3 counts as the first double crochet now and throughout), work 2 dc in the same ch-2 space from the previous round. *Ch 1, in the next ch 2 space, make (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc)* to make the next corner. Repeat from * to * 3 times. Then ch 1, 3 dc, ch 1 in the same ch 2 space as the first double crochet stitches. Join with sc to the top of the first ch 3 space.
Round 3: ch 3, 2 dc in the first corner space. *Ch 1, in the next ch-1 space from the previous row, make 3 dc, ch 1, then in the corner space, make 3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc*. Repeat from * to * 3 times. Ch 1, 3 dc in next ch 1 space, ch 1, 3 dc in the final corner, ch 1, sc to the first ch 3 space to join the round.
Round 4: ch 3, 2 dc in the same space. *Ch 1, 3 dc in the next ch 1 space, ch 1, 3 dc in the next ch 1 space, ch 1, then make 3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc in the corner*. Repeat from * to * 3 times. Ch 1, 3 dc in next ch 1 space, ch 1, 3 dc in last ch 1 space, then make 3 dc in the first corner space, ch 1, sc to the 3rd ch space to join to the beginning of the round.
You can continue these rounds until the granny square is your desired size. For the sides, you will continue working 3 dc stitches in the previous rounds’ ch 1 space, with ch 1 in between. Then on the corner, work 3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc.
Continue increasing the granny square in this manner until it is the size you want. Or you can make them into as small squares as you wish. A common small granny square is to only make rounds one and two.
When you are finished, finish off the square, leaving a long tail of yarn to sew the granny squares together.

Solid Granny Square

Round 1: ch 4, in the 4th ch from the hook make 2 dc, ch 2, 3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc, ch 1. Sc to the top of the first ch space to join.
Round 2: ch 3 (this ch 3 counts as the first dc now and throughout), in the same stitch, make a dc stitch. *Dc in each of the next dc 3 stitches, in the next ch 2 space, make 2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc*. Repeat from * to * 3 times. Dc in the next 3 dc stitches from the previous round. Finally, in the last ch space, make 2 dc, ch 1, and join with sc to the top of the first ch 3 stitch.
Round 3: ch 3, in the first ch space, make 1 dc. Then make a dc in each of the next dc spaces. In the next corner work *2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc, and make a dc in each of the next dc stitches*. Repeat from * to * 3 times. In the last ch 2 space, work 2 dc, ch 1, and join with sc to the top ch space.
Round 4: ch 3, make 1 dc in the same space, then dc in each of the next dc spaces. In the next corner, space make 2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc. In each of the next dc work a dc in each st. Repeat from * to * around. In the last space, make 2 dc, ch 2. Join with a sl st to the first stitch. Finish off by leaving a long tail for sewing.
Please note that this solid granny square pattern can also be made as small or as large as you would like each square to be. After all of the squares have been made, the easiest way to assemble them is by sewing them together.
Also please note that for rounds 3 and 4, you may want to decrease the double crochet stitches made in the corner if you are having difficulty with the square not holding its basic shape. If needed you can work 2 dc, ch 2, dc in each corner rather than the standard 3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc.

Daisy Granny Square

Round 1: using the center color (I used yellow) ch 4, into the 4 ch from the hook, make 8 dc, join with a sl st to the first dc.
Round 2: change to the petal color (I used white). Ch 2, make a beginning granny cluster in the first dc space, ch 2. In each of the next dc stitches, make the granny square cluster for the petals, ch 2 in between each petal. Make 1 beginning granny cluster, and 7 granny square clusters for the petals, resulting in 8 total petals, with ch 2 spaces in between. Join with a slip stitch to the top of the first petal made.