How to Crochet a Simple Granny Square
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A step by step crochet crafting guide
Granny squares are one of the most popular and beginner friendly crochet patterns. They are versatile, relaxing to make, and can be used for many different projects such as blankets, cushions, bags, scarves, and even clothing.
If you are new to crochet, learning how to make a granny square is a wonderful place to start. Once you understand the pattern, you can make as many as you like and join them together to create larger projects.
Below is a simple step by step guide to making a classic crochet granny square.
Materials You Will Need
Yarn (any colour you like). I like to use this yarn: My favourite crochet yarn
A crochet hook suitable for your yarn: I recommend these because they are easier to hold: Ergonomic Crochet Hooks
Scissors. These ones are so cute: Sewing Scissors
Yarn needle for weaving in ends. These are simple and cheap and do the job perfectly: Yarn Needles
Tip: For beginners, a medium weight yarn with a 4 mm to 5 mm crochet hook works very well.
Crochet Terms Used
Chain stitch (ch): YouTube tutorial for chain stitch
Slip stitch (sl st)
Double crochet (dc): YouTube tutorial for double crochet
This guide uses standard UK crochet terminology.
Step 1. Make a Slip Knot
Begin by creating a slip knot on your crochet hook.
To do this, make a loop with your yarn, pull a section of yarn through the loop, and tighten it gently onto the hook.
This forms the starting point of your crochet work.
Step 2. Create the Starting Chain
Chain four stitches.
YouTube tutorial for chain stitch
Insert your hook into the first chain and make a slip stitch to join the ends together. This creates a small ring that will form the centre of your granny square.
Step 3. Begin the First Round
Chain three stitches. These chains count as your first double crochet.
Now crochet two double crochet stitches into the centre ring.
YouTube tutorial for double crochet
You should now have a group of three stitches.
Step 4. Create the First Corner
Chain two stitches to form the corner space.
This space allows the square to turn and create its shape.
Step 5. Crochet the Next Cluster
Into the centre ring, crochet three double crochet stitches.
You now have two clusters of three double crochet stitches separated by a chain two corner.
Step 6. Repeat the Corner Pattern
Repeat the following pattern two more times:
Three double crochet stitches into the centre ring
Chain two
You will now have four groups of three double crochet stitches around the ring.
Step 7. Join the Round
Chain two after the final cluster.
Join the round by making a slip stitch into the top of the starting chain three.
Your first round is now complete and you should see the basic square beginning to form.
Step 8. Start the Second Round
Slip stitch across the next two stitches until you reach the first corner space.
Once in the corner space, chain three. This counts as your first double crochet.
Add two more double crochet stitches into the same corner space.
Step 9. Create the Corner
Chain two stitches to create the corner.
Then crochet three more double crochet stitches into the same corner space.
This forms the corner cluster.
Step 10. Move to the Next Corner
Chain one stitch.
Move to the next corner space and repeat the corner pattern:
Three double crochet stitches
Chain two
Three double crochet stitches
Step 11. Continue Around the Square
Continue working around the square repeating the same pattern at each corner.
Between each corner cluster, chain one stitch.
This creates the spaces that give granny squares their distinctive look.
Step 12. Finish the Round
Once you reach the beginning of the round again, join with a slip stitch into the top of the starting chain three.
Cut the yarn and pull the tail through to fasten off.
Step 13. Weave in the Ends
Use a yarn needle to weave the loose ends into the back of the crochet stitches. This secures your work and keeps the square looking neat.
Ideas for Using Granny Squares
Once you have made several granny squares, you can join them together to create larger crochet projects.
Blankets
Cushion covers
Bags
Table runners
Scarves
Patchwork style clothing
You can also experiment with different colour combinations to create beautiful patterns.
Tips for Beginners
Keep your tension relaxed and even
Practise the double crochet stitch before starting
Use stitch markers if you find it helpful
Take your time and enjoy the process
Crochet is a wonderfully calming craft that becomes easier with practice.
Watch how to make a basic Granny Square
Final Thoughts
Granny squares are a timeless crochet pattern that never goes out of style. They are simple enough for beginners yet versatile enough for experienced crocheters to turn into beautiful projects.
Once you have learned this basic pattern, you will have the foundation for many different crochet creations.
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