If you’re on the hunt for a free step-by-step pattern that brings vintage vibes with a modern twist, you’ll love this granny ripple stitch. This crochet pattern features a zig zag ripple, in an eye-catching and timeless charm of the granny stitch. Making it one of those favorite stitches you’ll return to again and again.
What is the Granny Ripple Stitch?
This pattern uses basic stitches like double crochets to build a rhythmic, meditative wave that’s hard to put down. The result? A handmade blanket, shawl, or other fun crochet project full of warmth, texture, and love.
This granny ripple pattern is often used for a blanket, also known as a zig zag stitch or a granny chevron blanket. It combines simplicity and beauty in every row. Whether you’re making a baby-sized version or a full throw size afghan, this easy pattern is the perfect project for relaxing evenings and cozy weekends.
With its soft texture and different colors, it’s a stunning option for crochet blankets that suit every home.
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Great Beginner-Friendly Crochet Stitch
Don’t worry if this is your first time trying a ripple pattern! I’ve included pattern notes, a photo tutorial, and even a video tutorial to guide you through. If you can crochet a chain stitch and double crochet, you can master this lovely pattern.
The granny ripple stitch has a special place in the heart of the crochet world. With its endless possibilities of the granny stitch, it’s easy to see why. You can use this design for soft garments, scarves, or classic crochet projects like pillows and wraps. But for me, it shines brightest as a handmade blanket.
One thing I love about this zig zag stitch is how easy it is to adjust. Want a wider or longer version? Just modify your foundation row and work until your desired length.
What Yarn Works Well?
One of the best things about the granny ripple stitch blanket is how versatile it is when it comes to yarn choices. Whether you’re reaching for worsted weight yarn, bulky yarn, or even delicate crochet thread, this pattern adapts beautifully to your personal style and desired project size.
For a cozy, everyday afghan pattern or throw size blanket, worsted weight yarn is the go-to. It provides great stitch definition, holds the granny cluster shape well, and works up quickly.
For this sample project, I used worsted weight yarn, though it looks just as lovely in other yarn weights too. If you want something extra warm and plush, try chunky yarn. The thicker fiber creates a dramatic granny ripple with bold, textured dc clusters that are perfect for winter throws or sofa blankets.
Looking for something lightweight or lacy? Try a thread yarn or lighter number 3 weight. These yarns create a lighter drape and are great for summer accessories or decorative crochet projects like shawls and baby blankets.
Color choice is where this stitch really shines
Use solid colors for a sleek, modern look, or lean into the vintage flair with variegated yarn and stripes. The peaks and valleys of the pattern make even simple color transitions look magical. Changing colors every few rows adds visual interest and brings out the iconic stitch definition.
Great for using up that scrap yarn stash. Just remember to change colors at the start of a new row to keep a clean, consistent edge.
No matter what yarn you choose, be sure to swatch for your foundation chain and check the finished size if you’re aiming for a specific baby blanket pattern or throw size. That way, you can make sure your gauge, drape, and stitch count are just right.
So, grab your crochet hook, pick your palette, and let’s get started on this modern crochet design with the perfect mix of vintage flair.
Directions: Granny Ripple Stitch Crochet Pattern for Beginners
Skill Level
Beginner Friendly
Gauge
18 double crochet stitches and 6 rows every 4” X 4”.
Size
This sample pattern worked with a medium weight yarn and size I 5.5mm crochet hook will make about 8” width.
To adjust the width of the blanket, simply start with a chain in a multiple of 18. To make the blanket longer or shorter, simply crochet for more or fewer rows.
Abbreviations
- CH = Chain
- DC = Double Crochet
- SK = Skip
- SP = Space
- ST = Stitch
- STs = Stitches
- YO = Yarn Over
- [ ] = Repeat Between
Materials
Yarn. A medium weight yarn works well with this pattern. For my sample, I used Caron Big Cakes from Yarnspirations. Number 4 medium weight yarn. Color Toffee Brickle. Plan for about 150 yards of yarn.
Crochet Hook. Choose a hook size that matches your yarn weight.
I used a size I crochet hook 5.5 mm. Crochet hook size H 5.5mm would also work.
Scissors
Tapestry Needle
Pattern Notes
Written in US Terms.
Turn at the end of each row.
You may choose to practice the pattern on a small swatch before beginning a larger project. To make the ends symmetrical, simply chain 36 and work the pattern as written.
There are photo tutorials throughout the pattern and video tutorials after the written pattern.
Crochet Stitches Used
Chain Stitch (CH ST)
Begin the chain stitch by making a slip knot on the crochet hook. Leave about a 5-inch tail on the yarn. This will be weaved in later.
Next snug up the yarn loop that is on the crochet hook; while it should be firm, it should also be loose enough to slide on the hook with ease.
Keeping the loop on the hook, insert the hook in the stitch, wrap the yarn over the crochet hook from back to front. Draw the yarn through the loop. Yarn over again and draw the yarn through both loops that are currently on the hook. (The first chain stitch is complete).
HOW TO CROCHET THE CHAIN STITCH video tutorial
Double Crochet (DC)
Yarn over, insert the hook through both loops and pull up a loop. Next, yarn over and pull through two loops on the hook. Lastly, yarn over again and pull through the last two loops on the hook.
HOW TO CROCHET THE DOUBLE CROCHET STITCH video tutorial
Begin
Chain 36
Row 1
In the 5th CH from the hook, 3 DC. SK 2 CH STs, 3 DC in the next CH. SK 2 CH STs, in the next ST work (3 DC, CH 3, 3 DC). The first peak is done. SK 2 CH STs, 3 DC in the next CH, SK 2 CH STs, 3 DC in the next CH. Make the Valley. [SK 5 CH STs, 3 DC in the next CH. SK 2 CH STs, 3 DC in the next CH. Make the Peak. SK 2 CH STs, in the next ST work (3 DC, CH 3, 3 DC). SK 2 CH STs, 3 DC in the next CH, SK 2 CH STs, 3 DC in the next CH]. Repeat between [ ] across. End with 1 DC in the last CH. Turn
With a longer pattern than this 36-stitch sample, continue working the pattern for the valleys and peaks.
Row 2
CH 4. [SK the first 3 DC. In the SP between the 2 clusters of 3 DC, 3 DC]. Repeat between [ ] once. Skip to the CH 3 SP and work (3 DC, CH 3, 3 DC). [SK 3 DC, in the SP between the 2 clusters of 3 DC, 3 DC]. Repeat between [ ] once. [SK the next 2 clusters of 3 DC. 3 DC between the next clusters of 3 DC. SK 3 DC, in the SP between the 2 clusters of 3 DC, 3 DC. Skip to the CH 3 SP and work (3 DC, CH 3, 3 DC). SK 3 DC, in the SP between the 2 clusters of 3 DC, 3 DC. SK 3 DC, in the SP between the 2 clusters of 3 DC, 3 DC]. Repeat between [ ] across to the end. End with a DC in top of the turning CH. Turn
With a longer pattern than this 36-stitch sample, continue working the pattern for the valleys and peaks.
Rows 3 and Beyond
Repeat row 2 until your project reaches your desired length.
Finishing
After you work the last SC ST, cut off the yarn leaving about a 12-inch long tail. Pull the yarn tail through the last loop on the hook.
Thread the yarn needle with the yarn tails and weave them through the crochet stitches back and forth until the yarn feels secure. Snip off the excess yarn.
If you are a beginner crocheter, you can find more detail on finishing your crochet project on the website.
Crochet Video Tutorials of the Granny Ripple Stitch Crochet pattern
Granny Ripple Stitch Crochet Pattern for Beginners
Equipment
- Crochet Hook: Choose a hook size that matches your yarn weight. I used a size I crochet hook 5.5 mm. Crochet hook size H 5.5mm would also work.
- Scissors:
- Tapestry Needle
Materials
- Yarn. A medium weight yarn works well with this pattern. For my sample. I used Caron Big Cakes from Yarnspirations. Number 4 medium weight yarn. Color Toffee Brickle. Plan for about 150 yards of yarn.
Instructions
Begin
- Chain 36Yarn.
Row 1
- In the 5th CH from the hook, 3 DC. SK 2 CH STs, 3 DC in the next CH. SK 2 CH STs, in the next ST work (3 DC, CH 3, 3 DC). The first peak is done. SK 2 CH STs, 3 DC in the next CH, SK 2 CH STs, 3 DC in the next CH. Make the Valley. [SK 5 CH STs, 3 DC in the next CH. SK 2 CH STs, 3 DC in the next CH. Make the Peak. SK 2 CH STs, in the next ST work (3 DC, CH 3, 3 DC). SK 2 CH STs, 3 DC in the next CH, SK 2 CH STs, 3 DC in the next CH]. Repeat between [ ] across. End with 1 DC in the last CH. Turn
- With a longer pattern than this 36-stitch sample, continue working the pattern for the valleys and peaks.
Row 2
- CH 4. [SK the first 3 DC. In the SP between the 2 clusters of 3 DC, 3 DC]. Repeat between [ ] once. Skip to the CH 3 SP and work (3 DC, CH 3, 3 DC). [SK 3 DC, in the SP between the 2 clusters of 3 DC, 3 DC]. Repeat between [ ] once. [SK the next 2 clusters of 3 DC. 3 DC between the next clusters of 3 DC. SK 3 DC, in the SP between the 2 clusters of 3 DC, 3 DC. Skip to the CH 3 SP and work (3 DC, CH 3, 3 DC). SK 3 DC, in the SP between the 2 clusters of 3 DC, 3 DC. SK 3 DC, in the SP between the 2 clusters of 3 DC, 3 DC]. Repeat between [ ] across to the end. End with a DC in top of the turning CH. Turn
- With a longer pattern than this 36-stitch sample, continue working the pattern for the valleys and peaks.
- Repeat row 2 until your project reaches your desired length.
Finishing
- After you work the last SC ST, cut off the yarn leaving about a 12-inch long tail. Pull the yarn tail through the last loop on the hook.
- Thread the yarn needle with the yarn tails and weave them through the crochet stitches back and forth until the yarn feels secure. Snip off the excess yarn.
Notes
Skill Level
Beginner FriendlyGauge
18 double crochet stitches and 6 rows every 4” X 4”.Size
This sample pattern worked with a medium weight yarn and size I 5.5mm crochet hook will make about 8” width. To adjust the width of the blanket, simply start with a chain in a multiple of 18. To make the blanket longer or shorter, simply crochet for more or fewer rows.Abbreviations
- CH = Chain
- DC = Double Crochet
- SK = Skip
- SP = Space
- ST = Stitch
- STs = Stitches
- YO = Yarn Over
- [ ] = Repeat Between
You can find Victoria crocheting, quilting, and creating recipes. She has cooked in restaurants for over 20 years, including many larger parties. She learned to crochet when she was just 11 years old and has been crocheting ever since; over 50 years now. Over 40 years ago, she loved her first class in sewing and continues to hone her skills in quilting. Many have enjoyed the handmade gifts over the years. In her professional career, she has worked in management in a wide variety of businesses including higher education as a dean of a division. All the while attending college part-time to achieve her doctorate in higher education with an emphasis in e-learning.
Easy pattern to work up. Lovely results.