The humble granny square is a classic crochet motif for a reason. It’s versatile, beginner friendly, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy blanket, a stylish bag, or a unique garment, the granny square pattern is the perfect foundation. This tutorial, inspired by the talented @TubaCrochet ([https://www.youtube.com/@TubaCrochet]), will guide you through the process of creating a beautiful and textured crochet square that you’ll be proud to incorporate into your next project.
Granny Square Pattern Basics: Getting Started in Crochet
First things first, let’s gather our supplies. You’ll need:
- Yarn: The video uses Alize Cotton Gold yarn, a mercerized cotton yarn known for its softness, sheen, and durability. Feel free to choose your favorite colors and experiment with different yarn weights for unique effects.
- Crochet Hook: A 3.00mm (5/0) crochet hook is recommended, but you may need to adjust the size depending on your yarn and desired tension.
- Scissors: For snipping yarn ends.
- Tapestry Needle (Optional): Useful for weaving in loose ends.
With your materials ready, it’s time to learn some basic crochet techniques:
- Slip Knot: This creates the loop on your hook to begin.
- Chain Stitch (ch): Forms the foundation of your granny square.
- Single Crochet (sc): The most basic stitch, creating a dense fabric.
- Double Crochet (dc): Taller than a single crochet, resulting in a more open fabric.
- Slip Stitch (sl st): Used to join rounds and move your yarn without adding height.
Mastering the Granny Square Pattern: Step by Step Instructions
Now, let’s create your first granny square:
Pattern:
Round 1 (Magic Ring):
- Create a magic ring (adjustable loop).
- Work 3 ch (counts as first dc).
- Work 2 dc into the ring.
- Ch 2, then work 3 dc into the ring.
- Repeat steps 4 and 5 two more times (total of 3 corner spaces created).
- Ch 2, sl st to the top of the first ch 3 to join the round. (8 dc)
Step 2 (Color Change):
- Change yarn to your second color.
- Ch 3 (counts as first dc).
- Work 2 dc into the first corner space (from the previous round).
- Corner increase: (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc). Work this group of stitches into the next corner space.
- Work 3 dc into the space along the side of the square.
- Repeat steps 4 and 5, alternating corner increases and 3 dc stitches, until you reach the last corner space.
- Work the corner increase at the last corner space.
- Ch 2, sl st to the top of the initial ch 3 to join the round. (16 dc)
Round 3 and Beyond:
- Change yarn to your next desired color (optional).
- Ch 3 (counts as first dc).
- Work 2 dc into the first corner space (from the previous round).
- Corner increase: (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc). Work this group of stitches into the corner space.
- Work 2 dc into the space along the side of the square (instead of 3 dc used in Round 2). This creates a descending round and shapes the square.
- Repeat steps 4 and 5, alternating corner increases and 2 dc stitches, until you reach the last corner space.
- Work the corner increase at the last corner space.
- Ch 2, sl st to the top of the initial ch 3 to join the round. (20 dc)
Continue rounds:
- Follow the pattern established in Round 3:
- Begin each round with a ch 3 (counts as first dc).
- Work corner increases in each corner space.
- Work decreasing stitches (2 dc) in the spaces along the sides.
- Change yarn colors as desired to create your unique design.
- Continue working rounds until your granny square reaches the desired size.
Finishing:
- Fasten off by cutting the yarn, leaving a long tail.
- Weave the tail through the back loops of the stitches to secure and hide the end.
- Repeat the pattern to create additional granny squares.
Granny Square Pattern Variations: Exploring Color and Texture
The beauty of the granny square pattern is its versatility. Here are some ways to personalize your squares:
- Color Play: Experiment with different color combinations and striping patterns.
- Texture Time: Incorporate different stitches like the cluster stitch for a raised texture.
- Picot Perfection: Add a delicate picot edging to your squares for a touch of elegance.
Beyond the Basics: Expanding Your Granny Square Pattern Skills
Once you’ve mastered the basic granny square pattern, you can explore more complex variations. Try:
- Solid Granny Squares: These squares are worked without chain spaces, resulting in a denser fabric.
- Flower Granny Squares: Add floral elements to the center or corners of your squares.
- Join as you go Squares: This technique allows you to connect squares as you crochet them.
Granny Square Pattern Inspiration: Creative Project Ideas
Crochet squares offer endless possibilities! Use them to create:
- Blankets: Join squares together for a cozy and colorful masterpiece.
- Bags: Crochet a unique tote bag or purse with personality.
- Garments: Design a sweater, scarf, or even a skirt using granny squares.
Perfecting the Granny Square Pattern: Tips for Beginners
- Tension Matters: Keep your tension consistent to ensure your squares are uniform in size.
- Count Carefully: Pay attention to stitch counts to maintain the pattern and shape of your squares.
- Practice Makes Perfect: Don’t be discouraged if your first squares aren’t perfect. The more you practice, the more confident you’ll become.
Remember to check out @TubaCrochet’s video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OlWBZw6K5B8) for a visual demonstration of these techniques.
Share your beautiful creations with the crochet community! Use the hashtag #tubacrochet_ on Instagram and @tubacrochet on TikTok. Let’s inspire each other and celebrate the joy of crochet!
Other Crochet Projects You’ll Love
- Crochet Amigurumi: Explore the adorable world of crocheted stuffed animals.
- Add handmade touches to your living space with crochet pillows, blankets, and more.
The world of crochet is full of endless possibilities. Start with the basic granny square pattern and let your creativity bloom!
