Get creative with this quick and easy crochet granny square! Our step-by-step tutorial makes this handmade African flower square pattern a breeze, perfect for beginners.
Crochet squares are those delightfully versatile little projects that never cease to inspire. Whether you’re a seasoned crocheter or a curious beginner, the African flower square offers a beautiful and surprisingly easy way to add a touch of vintage charm to your projects. This pattern is perfect for blankets, throws, cushions, bags – you name it!
If you’re looking for a quick, satisfying project with a beautiful result, this is absolutely the one for you.
What You’ll Need
- Yarn: I recommend a medium-weight yarn like YarnArt Jeans (55% cotton, 45% polyacrylic). You can use any similar weight yarn in your favorite colors.
- Crochet hook: A size 3mm hook is ideal for this pattern.
- Scissors: For cutting your yarn.
- Yarn needle: To weave in those pesky ends.
Skill Level: Beginner
Crochet Granny Square Pattern Basics
Before we dive into the African flower pattern, let’s cover some basics if you’re new to crochet:
- Slip knot: This is how you’ll start your project. There are many tutorials online if you’re unsure!
- Chain stitch (ch): The foundation of many crochet patterns.
- Single crochet (sc): A basic and versatile stitch.
- Double crochet (dc): A taller stitch commonly used in patterns.
Crochet a Classic: Your African Flower Square Pattern
Now, let’s get crocheting! This pattern may look intricate, but it’s surprisingly beginner-friendly.
Written Pattern
Row 1:
- Make a slip knot (sl st).
- Chain 5 (ch 5).
- Join with a slip stitch (sl st) to the first chain (ch) to form a ring.
Row 2:
- Chain 3 (ch 3) (counts as the first dc).
- Work 2 double crochets (dc) into the ring.
- Chain 2 (ch 2).
- Repeat from * around the ring: 3 dc in the ring, ch 2.
- Join with a slip stitch (sl st) to the top of the beginning chain 3 (ch 3).
Round 3:
- Slip stitch (sl st) into the first chain 2 (ch 2) space.
- Chain 3 (ch 3).
- Work 2 double crochets (dc) in the same chain 2 (ch 2) space.
- Chain 1 (ch 1).
- Work 3 double crochets (dc) in the next chain 2 (ch 2) space.
- Repeat from * around the round.
- Join with a slip stitch (sl st) to the top of the beginning chain 3 (ch 3).
Rounds 4-8 (Increase Rounds):
- These rounds follow a similar pattern, increasing the number of double crochets (dc) in each petal.
- In each round, work additional chain stitches (ch) between the double crochets (dc) in the petals.
- The exact number of chain stitches and double crochets will vary depending on your desired size and shape of the flower square.
- A helpful tip is to reference a chart or video tutorial for specific stitch counts in each round for increasing the size.
Shaping the Square (Optional):
- Once you’ve reached the desired size for the base of the flower square, you can create a squarer shape by adding “corner rounds.”
- In these rounds, instead of working chains between each petal, work double crochets (dc) across the corner spaces between the petals.
- The number of double crochets (dc) you work in each corner space will depend on your desired squareness. You can experiment to find the look you prefer.
Finishing:
- Weave in all yarn ends with a yarn needle.
- You can block your finished squares to achieve a more even shape (optional). Blocking involves gently dampening the squares and pinning them out to dry flat.
Assembly (Optional):
- You can join your completed African flower squares together using single crochets (sc) or another joining method of your choice to create a blanket, throw pillow, or other project.
Tips:
- Use stitch markers to mark the beginning of each round if you find it helpful.
- Pay attention to your tension to create an even and consistent square.
- There are many variations of the African Flower Square pattern available online. Feel free to experiment with different colors, stitch counts, and embellishments!
Watch and Learn
For a visual guide, be sure to check out the wonderful video tutorial on the YouTube channel “https://www.youtube.com/@user-mr8vx5fo3q” and watch the video titled “https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iJcn3qyJc2M“.
Make it Your Own
The beauty of crochet granny squares is their amazing adaptability. Experiment with different color combinations to create unique African flower squares! You can make a whole flower square blanket, stitch them into a cozy throw, or even turn them into decorative coasters.
Join the Community
I’d absolutely love to see your creations! Share your projects on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/tubacrochet_) or TikTok (tiktok.com/@tubacrochet and let’s inspire each other. And don’t forget to leave a comment below – I love hearing from you!
Conclusion
The African flower square is a timeless crochet square pattern that’s both beautiful and surprisingly easy to learn. So, grab your hook and yarn, and let’s get creative! I’m confident that this little pattern will spark your love for crochet and inspire endless possibilities.
