How to Crochet a Granny Square: A Beginner’s Guide


If you’ve ever admired a colourful crocheted blanket draped across a sofa or a stack of vibrant coasters at a craft fair, chances are you’ve already encountered the beloved granny square. This iconic crochet motif is more than just a retro favourite — it’s the perfect project for beginners and a versatile building block for endless creative possibilities.

Whether you want to make a cozy afghan, a stylish bag, or just practice your crochet skills, learning how to crochet a granny square is a fun and rewarding journey. Let’s dive in!

Why Granny Squares Are So Popular

Granny squares are the heart of crochet for a few reasons:

  • Beginner-friendly: With just a handful of stitches, you can create something beautiful.

  • Portable: You can work on them anywhere — no big project to lug around.

  • Customizable: Play with color, yarn texture, or size to make each square unique.

  • Practical: Join squares together for blankets, scarves, or even sweaters.

Their simplicity combined with endless design possibilities explains why granny squares never go out of style.

What You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather your supplies:

  • Yarn: A medium-weight yarn (like worsted) is great for beginners.

  • Crochet hook: Size H/5 mm works well with most medium yarns.

  • Scissors: For trimming yarn ends.

  • Tapestry needle: To weave in those ends neatly.

Step-by-Step: Crocheting a Classic Granny Square

Step 1: Start with a slip knot and chain 4.
Join the chain with a slip stitch to form a small ring. This ring is your starting point.

Step 2: Make the first round.

  • Chain 3 (this counts as your first double crochet).

  • Crochet 2 double crochets into the ring.

  • Chain 2 (this makes a corner).

  • Repeat the pattern of 3 double crochets + chain 2 three more times.

  • Join with a slip stitch to your first chain-3. You should now have 4 little clusters with chain spaces at each corner.

Step 3: Build the next rounds.

  • Slip stitch over to the nearest corner.

  • Chain 3, then work 2 double crochets, chain 2, and 3 double crochets (all in the corner space).

  • Move to the next corner and repeat.

  • Join with a slip stitch at the end of the round.

Step 4: Keep going!
Each new round adds clusters into the corners and the spaces between clusters. Your square will grow evenly, round by round.

Tips for Success

  • Count your stitches: It’s easy to get lost while crocheting. Double-check clusters and corners each round.

  • Experiment with colors: Switching yarn at the start of each round gives the classic multi-colored granny square look.

  • Practice tension: If your square curls or feels tight, try a larger hook. If it’s loose and floppy, go smaller.

Beyond the Basics

Once you’ve mastered the traditional granny square, try:

  • Granny triangles or hexagons for unique shapes.

  • Solid granny squares (without gaps) for a different look.

  • Mixing yarn textures for a modern twist.

The possibilities are as endless as your creativity.

Final Thoughts

Crocheting a granny square isn’t just about making fabric; it’s about joining a tradition that connects generations. Each square is a little piece of art you can carry with you, combine with others, and eventually turn into something bigger.

So grab your yarn and hook, put on your favorite playlist, and let your hands find the rhythm of this timeless craft. Before long, you’ll have a stack of colorful squares — and plenty of ideas for what to do with them.


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