How to Crochet a Granny Square

Okay, let's talk granny squares. They're classic crochet! You can make almost anything with them. Blankets, scarves, you name it. Even if you're brand new to crochet, don't worry! This guide will show you how to make a granny square, step by step.

What's a Granny Square?

It's basically a crocheted square. Usually with bright colors! You can join them together to make bigger things. Think blankets, bags, even clothes. They're super versatile. Plus, easy to carry around for projects on the go! They usually have a circle or square in the middle with crochet stitches around it.

What You'll Need

First, get your stuff together. You'll need:

• Yarn: Pick your fave! A medium weight yarn is good to start with. Cotton is great for blankets. Acrylic is cheaper and comes in tons of colors.
• Crochet Hook: Use the right size for your yarn. A size H/8 (5.0 mm) is usually good for medium weight yarn.
• Scissors: For cutting the yarn.
• Yarn Needle: This helps you hide the yarn ends.

Basic Stitches

I'm guessing you know some basic crochet. If not, practice these first:

• Chain (ch): This is how you start.
• Slip Stitch (sl st): To join stuff and finish.
• Double Crochet (dc): The main stitch for granny squares.

Let's Make a Granny Square!

Ready? Here we go!

Round 1: The Middle

1. Slip Knot: Make a loop, then pull the yarn through.
2. Chain 4: Chain 4. This counts as a double crochet and a chain-one space.
3. Double Crochet: Double crochet into the first chain.
4. Chain 1: Chain 1.
5. Repeat: Do steps 3 and 4 two more times. You should have three double crochets and three chain-one spaces.
6. Join: Slip stitch into the third chain of your first chain 4. Now you have a ring with four chain-one spaces.

Round 2: Making the Corners

1. Slip Stitch: Slip stitch into the next chain-one space.
2. Chain 3: Chain 3 (counts as a double crochet).
3. Double Crochet 2: Double crochet 2 into the same chain-one space.
4. Chain 2: Chain 2 (this makes the corner).
5. Double Crochet 3: Double crochet 3 into the next chain-one space.
6. Chain 2: Chain 2.
7. Repeat: Do steps 5 and 6 two more times.
8. Join: Slip stitch into the top of the first chain 3. You should have four groups of three double crochets with four chain-2 spaces between them.

Round 3: Making It Bigger

1. Slip Stitch: Slip stitch into the next two double crochets and the corner space. You're in the corner now.
2. Chain 3: Chain 3 (counts as a double crochet).
3. Double Crochet 2: Double crochet 2 into the same corner space.
4. Chain 2: Chain 2 (corner).
5. Double Crochet 3: Double crochet 3 into the same corner space.
6. Double Crochet 3: Double crochet 3 into the space between the groups from the last round.
7. In the Corner: (Double crochet 3, chain 2, double crochet 3) into the next corner space.
8. Repeat: Do steps 6 and 7 all the way around.
9. Join: Slip stitch into the top of the first chain 3.

Round 4 and More: Keep Going!

Keep repeating Round 3 to make it bigger. Remember:

• Slip Stitch to the Corner: Always slip stitch to get to the next corner.
• Corner Stitching: Always do (double crochet 3, chain 2, double crochet 3) in each corner.
• Fill the Spaces: Do double crochet 3 into each space between the groups from the last round.

Add rounds until it's the size you want!

Changing Colors

Granny squares are great for using different colors. Here's how:

1. Finish the Last Stitch: Before the last slip stitch, drop the old color.
2. Add New Yarn: Put the new yarn on your hook with a slip knot. Attach it to the same stitch.
3. Finish the Slip Stitch: Pull the new yarn through the loop to finish the slip stitch and secure the new color.
4. Hide the Ends: Don't forget to hide those yarn ends later!

Hiding the Yarn Ends

This is important! It keeps your yarn from unraveling.

1. Thread the Needle: Put the yarn end on your yarn needle.
2. Weave Through Stitches: Weave the needle through some stitches on the back, using the same color yarn.
3. Cut the Yarn: Cut the extra yarn close to the stitches.
4. Repeat: Do this for all the yarn ends.

Blocking Your Squares

This makes your squares look even better. Especially if they're a little wonky.

1. Wet Blocking: Lightly spray your squares with water or soak them a little.
2. Shape and Pin: Put the squares on a blocking board (or a towel) and make them square. Use pins to hold them in place.
3. Dry: Let them dry completely before you take the pins out.
4. Steam Blocking: You can also use a steamer or iron (on low with steam). Hold it above the squares and gently steam them. Don't touch the iron to the yarn!

Joining Squares Together

Now you need to put them together! There are lots of ways to do it:

• Slip Stitch Join: Easy and makes a flat seam.
• Single Crochet Join: Like the slip stitch, but a little more textured.
• Whip Stitch Join: Quick and makes a seam you can see.
• Invisible Join: Harder, but makes a seam you can barely see.
• Join-As-You-Go: Join the squares as you finish the last round of each one. No joining later!

Try different ways and see which one you like best.

What Can You Make?

So many things! Here are some ideas:

• Blankets: The classic!
• Scarves: Warm and colorful.
• Bags: Make a cool bag.
• Clothes: Vests, skirts, even dresses!
• Pillows: Add a handmade touch to your home.
• Coasters: For your table.
• Hats: Quick and easy.

Tips for Success

• Practice! The more you do it, the better you'll get.
• Keep it Steady: Try to keep your stitches the same size.
• Count: Double-check your stitches after each round.
• Pick Colors: Play with different colors.
• Try New Things: Use different yarns, hooks, and stitches.
• Watch Videos: If you're stuck, watch a video.

Help! Problems?

• Square is Curving: Too many stitches in the corners or not enough on the sides. Follow the directions carefully.
• Square is Too Tight: Use a bigger hook or loosen your stitches.
• Square is Too Loose: Use a smaller hook or tighten your stitches.
• Uneven Edges: Blocking can help. Also, make sure you're slip stitching into the right stitches.

That's It!

Now you know how to make a granny square! Have fun with it. Experiment, and don't be afraid to make mistakes. Happy crocheting!

This is just the beginning. Try different patterns and colors. Look online or in books for ideas. Crochet is awesome, so keep learning!