If you are new to crochet and want to learn a classic project, a granny square is one of the best places to start. Granny squares are simple, colorful, and surprisingly versatile. Once you learn the basic pattern, you can use your squares to make blankets, bags, pillows, scarves, cardigans, and many other handmade projects.
The best part is that you only need a few basic crochet skills to make your first granny square. In this beginner-friendly tutorial, we will go step by step from choosing your yarn and hook to making the center, adding rounds, changing colors, and finishing your square.
What Is a Granny Square?
A granny square is a small crocheted square made using groups of stitches, usually double crochet stitches separated by chain spaces.
The traditional granny square often has multiple colors, with each round creating a new layer around the center. However, you can also make a granny square using one color.
Once you learn the basic pattern, you can make squares in different sizes and color combinations.
Image Note 2: Place this image after the introduction to show different granny square styles.
Materials You Will Need
Before starting, gather a few simple supplies.
Basic Materials
- Medium-weight yarn
- Crochet hook suitable for your yarn
- Scissors
- Yarn needle
- Stitch marker, optional
- Two or more yarn colors, optional
For beginners, choose smooth yarn in a medium thickness. Avoid very fluffy or complicated yarn because it can make it difficult to see your stitches.
A crochet hook around 4 mm to 5.5 mm is commonly comfortable for medium-weight yarn, but always check the yarn label for the recommended hook size.
Image Note 3: Place this image under the materials section.
Crochet Abbreviations You Should Know
Before beginning, it helps to understand a few common crochet abbreviations.
| Abbreviation | Meaning |
|---|---|
| ch | Chain |
| sl st | Slip stitch |
| dc | Double crochet |
| st | Stitch |
| sp | Space |
| rep | Repeat |
Don’t worry if these terms look confusing at first. You will quickly become familiar with them as you practice.
Step 1: Make a Slip Knot
Start by making a slip knot with your yarn.
Place the loop onto your crochet hook and gently tighten it. The loop should be snug around the hook but still able to move easily.
Try not to pull the yarn too tightly.
Step 2: Make the Starting Chain
After making your slip knot, create a few chain stitches.
For a traditional granny square, you can begin with a magic ring or create a small chain and join it into a ring.
For beginners, making a chain ring can feel easier.
Make 4 chain stitches, then insert your hook into the first chain and make a slip stitch to form a small circle.
Image Note 5: Use this image to demonstrate creating the starting ring.
Step 3: Make the First Granny Cluster
Now it is time to create your first group of stitches.
A basic granny cluster consists of:
3 double crochet stitches
Work three double crochet stitches into the center of your ring.
Then make 2 chain stitches.
Repeat the same process around the ring.
Image Note 6: Place this image after explaining the first cluster.
Step 4: Complete the First Round
Continue making groups of three double crochet stitches.
A simple pattern for the first round is:
3 dc, ch 2 — repeat around the ring.
You should have four clusters.
When you reach the beginning, join the round with a slip stitch.
You should now see the beginning of your square.
Don’t worry if it doesn’t look perfectly square yet. The shape becomes clearer as you add more rounds.
Image Note 7: Place this image after completing Round 1.
Step 5: Start the Second Round
Now you can begin building the square outward.
Move your hook into one of the corner spaces.
Make your starting chains and work another group of three double crochet stitches into the corner.
Then make chain stitches and continue to the next corner.
The important thing to remember is:
Corners receive two groups of 3 double crochet stitches.
This is what helps your round grow into a square shape.
Image Note 8: Use this image to show how the second round is built.
Step 6: Keep Adding Rounds
Once you understand the pattern, granny squares become repetitive and relaxing.
For each new round, work groups of three double crochet stitches into the spaces between the previous round’s clusters.
At each corner, create the appropriate corner combination so the square continues growing evenly.
The more rounds you add, the larger your granny square becomes.
Image Note 9: Place this image after explaining how to continue the rounds.
Step 7: Change Colors
One of the most fun things about granny squares is experimenting with colors.
You can change colors after every round or make the entire square using one color.
To change colors, finish your current round and fasten off the old yarn. Attach your new color and continue crocheting.
Try combinations such as:
- Pink + white
- Blue + cream
- Green + yellow
- Purple + lavender
- Orange + brown
- Pastel rainbow colors
Image Note 10: Place this image in the color-changing section.
Step 8: Finish Your Granny Square
When your granny square reaches the size you want, it is time to finish it.
Cut the yarn, leaving a few inches of yarn attached.
Pull the yarn through the final loop and gently tighten it.
Use a yarn needle to weave the loose end through the stitches on the back of your square.
Image Note 11: Use this image to demonstrate finishing and hiding yarn ends.
Common Granny Square Mistakes
Don’t worry if your first granny square isn’t perfect. Beginners commonly make a few simple mistakes.
1. Too Many or Too Few Stitches
If you accidentally add or skip stitches, your square may become uneven.
Solution: Count your clusters regularly.
2. Tight Tension
Crocheting too tightly can make your square stiff and difficult to work with.
Solution: Keep your hands relaxed and allow the yarn to move naturally.
3. Uneven Corners
If your corners aren’t consistent, the square may start looking irregular.
Solution: Make sure you use the same corner pattern throughout every round.
4. Losing Track of the Round
It can be difficult to remember where one round ends and another begins.
Solution: Use a stitch marker or carefully count your clusters.
Image Note 12: Place this image before the beginner tips section.
Easy Granny Square Tips for Beginners
Start Small
Don’t try to make a huge blanket for your first project. Start with a small square and practice the basic pattern.
Use Light-Colored Yarn
Light-colored yarn makes it easier to see your stitches.
Count Your Clusters
Counting your groups of stitches can help you maintain an even shape.
Practice Your Double Crochet
The double crochet stitch is one of the most important stitches in a traditional granny square.
Experiment With Colors
Once you understand the pattern, have fun with different color combinations.