Granny squares are a classic crochet pattern that have stood the test of time. They are versatile, fun to make, and can be used in a variety of projects. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced crocheter, learning how to crochet different granny squares is a great way to add a unique touch to your creations.
What are Granny Squares?
Granny squares are small, square-shaped crochet motifs that are typically made using multiple colors and stitches. They are created by working in rounds, building upon each previous round to form a square shape. The beauty of granny squares lies in their simplicity and endless design possibilities.
How to Crochet a Basic Granny Square
Learning how to craft a basic granny square is crucial for any crocheter as it teaches fundamental skills like chaining, double crocheting, and pattern reading while offering versatility in creating various items such as blankets, scarves, and home decor. Below is a simple pattern for a basic granny square that you can follow to get started:
Using yarn of your choice and a matching hook, MR and CH2 to start.
Row 1. (2DC, CH2, *3DC, CH2* repeat between * 3 times), SL ST into top of CH2, turn.
Row 2. SL ST into CH2 space. Into the same CH2 space (CH2, 2DC, CH2, 3DC, CH1), *into next CH2 space (3DC, CH2, 3DC, CH1)* repeat between * 3 times, SL ST into top of CH2, turn.
Row 3. SL ST into CH1 space, into the same CH1 space (CH2, 2DC, CH1), *into next CH2 space (3DC, CH2, 3DC, CH1), into next CH1 space (3DC, CH1)* repeat between * 3 times, into next CH2 space (3DC, CH2, 3DC, CH1), SL ST into top of CH2, turn.
Continue repeating Row 3 and adding an extra DC cluster per row until the granny square is the right size for your project.
How to Crochet a Fancy Granny Square
Once you’ve mastered the basic granny square pattern, you might wish to look into making fancier, more detailed granny squares. There are numerous ways to make granny squares fancier, allowing you to add unique touches and intricate designs to your creations:
- Experiment with materials: try out new, fun yarns such as metallic or shimmery yarns, or mix and match by holding two or more strands of yarn together. Why not think outside the box and crochet with unique materials such as ribbon, chains or loom bands? Crocheting with unique materials opens up a world of creative possibilities, allowing you to explore unconventional textures and designs.
- Try out colour work: by incorporating color changes using techniques like tapestry crochet, intarsia, or surface crochet, you can create visually stunning motifs, geometric patterns, or even intricate pictorial scenes within your granny squares. Experimenting with color combinations and placements allows for endless creative possibilities, enabling you to express their unique style and create captivating works of textile art.
- New stitches & patterns: incorporating stitches like popcorn, bobble, or shell stitches adds depth and dimension to the fabric, creating captivating tactile and visual effects. Additionally, experimenting with different pattern arrangements, such as clusters, fans, or lace motifs, allows you to create unique and intricate designs within your granny squares. A vast array of granny square patterns can be found online, ranging from basic solid squares to whimsical designs featuring fruits, hearts, and even adorable animal motifs.
- Embellish and beautify: experimenting with embellishments in crochet granny squares adds an extra layer of charm and intricacy to these classic motifs. From delicate picots that create elegant edges to tiny beads that add subtle sparkle, you can personalise your squares with a variety of adornments. Whether it’s incorporating sequins for a touch of glamour, crocheting flowers for a whimsical flair, or adding tassels for playful movement, the possibilities for embellishing granny squares are endless.
Are Granny Squares Hard to Make?
Granny squares are generally considered to be a beginner-friendly crochet project. The basic stitches used in granny squares, such as double crochet and chain stitches, are easy to learn and repeat. With a little practice, you’ll be able to create beautiful granny squares in no time!
How Long Does it Take to Crochet a Granny Square?
The time it takes to crochet a granny square depends on various factors, such as the size of the square, the complexity of the pattern, and your crochet speed. On average, it can take anywhere from 10 minutes to a few hours to complete a single granny square.
Are Granny Squares in Style?
Absolutely! Granny squares have made a comeback in recent years and are now considered trendy and fashionable. You might be thinking, “What can I use granny squares for? How do I make trendy pieces using granny squares?” Well, they can be used to create anything from blankets and scarves to clothing and home decor items. The possibilities are endless!
Beginners can start with simple projects like granny square blankets or scarves to practice making and joining squares. Intermediate crocheters can progress to slightly more complex projects such as granny square hats or bags, incorporating various colour combinations and patterns. Advanced crocheters may wish to take on more intricate challenges like granny square cardigans or other garments, requiring mastery of advanced techniques. With granny squares, there’s always a project to match every crocheter’s skill level and creativity!
How Big Should a Granny Square Be?
The size of a granny square is entirely up to you and your project requirements. Granny squares can range from a few inches to several feet in size. If you’re making a blanket, for example, you might want to aim for squares that are around 6 to 8 inches in size and joined to create a blanket. Alternatively, you can keep working on one granny square and making it bigger until the granny square is big enough to act as a blanket. Yes, it’s really that simple!
Do Granny Squares Use a Lot of Yarn?
The amount of yarn needed for a granny square depends on its size, the type of yarn used, and your crochet tension. Generally, granny squares do not require a significant amount of yarn, especially if you’re making smaller squares. Granny squares are also perfect for using up leftover yarn scraps, allowing you to utilise all the smaller pieces of yarn left over from previous projects.
Do Granny Squares Need to be Blocked?
Blocking is not always necessary for granny squares, especially when planning to join the squares as the process of joining often stretches them into shape anyway. However, if you want your squares to have a more polished and uniform appearance, blocking can help. To block a granny square, follow the general blocking instructions for the yarn used. For acrylic yarns, you’ll have to pin the squares into shape and steam them. For natural fibres such as wool and cotton, simply wet the granny squares and pin them into shape before allowing them to dry.
How to Join Granny Squares?
Joining granny squares together is an essential step in creating larger crochet projects such as blankets, scarves, or garments. There are several methods for joining granny squares, each offering its own unique look and feel.
One common method is the whip stitch, which involves sewing the squares together using a tapestry needle and yarn. Another popular method is the single crochet join, which creates a more solid seam. With this method, you hold two squares with the right sides facing each other and join them using the single crochet stitch along the edge, working the stitch through both granny squares.
Regardless of the method chosen, it’s essential to ensure that the squares are aligned correctly and the tension is consistent to achieve a neat and professional-looking finish. Experiment with different joining techniques to find the one that best suits your project and personal preferences.
Conclusion
Crocheting granny squares is a delightful way to add a unique touch of creativity to your crochet projects. With a little practice and creativity, you’ll be able to create stunning granny squares that can be used in a variety of projects. So grab your yarn and hook, and let your imagination run wild!
