The classic granny square pattern is perfect for beginners since it is the easiest granny square you can make. Our photo tutorial makes it simple to follow along with, and it has a free crochet pattern included too.
Easy granny square afghan. Free directions on how to make one of your own.
Blanket Inspiration
This one was made in memory of my sister’s mother-in-law. This is her last yarn colors she purchased.
In Memory of Florence
This afghan was made in memory of a loved one. My bother-in-law of many years recently lost his mom. My sister was helping clean out the house when she found a bag of yarn, a started project, and a crochet hook. She gave it to me, but I decided to make something to give back to them as a last gift from her.
Out of the yarn she gave me, I was able to make a blanket for my sister and brother-in-law. Additionally, I also made a table cloth for each daughter and son; they loved their crochet item in memory of their grandmother.
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What is a Granny Square?
A classic and iconic granny square motif in the world of crochet. It’s a small, square-shaped piece of fabric that’s created by working a combination of stitches in a repetitive pattern. Granny squares are known for their versatility and can be used to make a wide variety of projects, from blankets and afghans to clothing, accessories, and home décor items.
Typically, a granny square starts in the center with a small ring made of chain stitches. From there, rounds of stitches are worked outward, creating a layered effect that forms the square.
The hallmark of a granny square is its cluster of stitches, often three double crochets, separated by chain spaces. This cluster creates the open and lacy appearance that’s characteristic of the pattern.
One of the great things about granny squares is their adaptability. They can be made using a single color or multiple colors, allowing for endless combinations and color play.
This makes them an excellent choice for using up scrap yarn or creating unique color gradients. Additionally, once you’ve made several granny squares, you can join them together to form larger projects like blankets or clothing.
Granny squares are loved by both beginners and experienced crocheters because they provide a relatively simple yet rewarding way to create intricate-looking designs. They’re also a great way to practice and master basic crochet stitches, making them an ideal starting point for those new to the craft.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing and nostalgic project or an avenue to showcase your creativity, the granny square is a timeless crochet motif that’s sure to capture your imagination.
Easy Crochet Granny Square Afghan
This granny square afghan starts with the classic granny. Rather than making a number of small squares and joining them, this pattern is achieved by continuing to add rounds to the beginning square. Making this a continuous granny square.
Making a Granny Square Afghan can be addicting. After researching a few patterns, I tried my hand at making one myself. Addicted is all I can say after making my first one. This one, I gave to my sister and her family
Make the afghan the size you want it.
The granny square is often one of the first crochet patterns that beginner crocheters make.
To start a square, create the center of the motif and continue adding rounds by repeating a pattern of granny clusters and chains.
You can make this afghan any size. Just keep going and adding rounds until you reach the desired size, or run out of yarn.
What is a Granny Cluster?
A granny cluster is simply three double crochet stitches worked into the same space. Follow our beginner-friendly guide to make your own beautiful granny square in no time.
It makes me so Happy that they loved the results and it was meaningful for all of them.
Great Colors
Truly, I was at a loss on what to do with the yarn. I loved the color combination, it is a medium weight yarn and I was struggling with what to make. The only thing I knew was that I wanted to use the yarn and her crochet hook to make something to give to the family.
After thinking for a few weeks, I decided to try making a granny square afghan. There are many great patterns available and examples. However, I learned from the very clear and detailed tutorial on this site The Humble Granny Square.
I am Hooked!
Since learning how to do this simple pattern, I have been finding all kinds of creative projects.
I made the larger project first. Then I realized that there might be enough leftover yarn for making something special for her grandchildren too.
This is a nice example of how this stitch can be used in different ways. One is the granny square tablecloths that I made for my nieces and nephew from this yarn, that pattern is available here Granny Square Tablecloth Pattern.
The granny square is worked from the center to the outer edge in rounds. Therefore, as you complete each round the blanket continues to grow.
Step-By-Step Tutorial with Video Tutorials
If you are brand new to crochet, refer to the blog post on How to Crochet a Classic Granny Square.
Directions: Granny Square Crochet Pattern
Skill Level
Beginner Crocheter
You’ll only need to know how to double crochet and make a chain stitch to complete this easy granny square pattern.
Gauge
Approximately 12 DC per 4 inches. I used a larger crochet hook than what the yarn called for; therefore, I had less stitches per inch for my gauge.
Size
My blanket measured approximately 44 X 44 inches square.
Materials:
Size K 6.5 mm crochet hook
Tapestry needle
Scissors
less than 1.5 skeins of each color of yarn
Claret color Red Heart approximately 550 yards
Buff color Red Heart approximately 550 yards
Coffee color Red Heart approximately 550 yards
Medium Thyme color Red Heart approximately 550 yards
Abbreviations:
CH = Chain
DC = Double Crochet
SC = Single Crochet
SL ST = Slip Stitch
SP = Space
ST = Stitch
STs = Stitches
Pattern Notes
The basic granny square motif is worked from the center out in joined rounds. The first round and additional rounds of a granny square are made from a repeating pattern of granny clusters and chain stitches.
Traditional granny squares are worked in the round, which means you’ll be joining yarn to form a continuous round without turning.
A double crochet cluster refers to a set of three double crochet (DC) stitches worked into the same space.
Each 3 DC, CH 3, 3 DC make the corner space.
Basic Stitches of Crochet Granny Squares
Chain Stitch
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, wrap the yarn over the crochet hook from back to front using the hook to draw the yarn through the loop that is currently on the hook. (The first chain stitch is complete).
HOW TO CROCHET THE CHAIN STITCH video tutorial
Double Crochet
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
Directions: How to Crochet an Easy Granny Square Afghan Pattern
Begin by making 5 chains (CH), join with a slip stitch to the 5th chain from hook to form a ring. You can also start out a granny square with a magic ring, also called the magic circle, rather than the CH 5.
Round 1:
For this round, you will be working inside the ring.
Chain 3 and count this chain 3 as your first double crochet of this round and throughout the entire pattern. Continuing working in the ring, work 2 DC. Then chain 3. 3 DC, CH 3, 3DC, CH3, 3DC, CH3 and join into the top of the beginning chain. This join completes the first shell of the first round. (note, you should have 4 clusters of 3 DC with 4 areas of CH 3 between).
Round 2:
CH 4 (This will count as your first DC plus a 1 CH). Then in the first CH 3 SP, [3 DC, 3 CH, 3 DC and CH 1]. Continue the stitch pattern between the [ ] until the last CH 3 SP. In the last CH 3 SP, work the 3 DC, 3 CH, then work only 2 DC and join with a SL into the 3rd chain of the beginning CH STs. This join will complete the round. (You should have 8 shells, 4 chain 3 spaces, and 4 CH 1 spaces).
Round 3:
CH 3 (Counts as a DC), Insert the hook into the CH 1 SP from the previous row, (Should be right where the previous row ended). YO and work a DC, Insert hook again, YO and DC. (This completes your first 3 DC in the round). CH 1. [In the corner CH 3 SP work (3 DC, 3 CH, 3 DC. and CH 1)]. In the next CH 1 SP work 3 DC and 1 CH]. Repeat between [ ] 3 more times until all 4 sides are complete. After the last DC in the CH 3 space CH 1 and SL ST into the top ST of the first DC of this round. (You should have 12 shells and 12 spaces after the completion of this round).
Continue working round 2 and 3 until your project is the desired size that you wish.
Finishing Off
Finish off with two rounds of double crochet Claret. In the corners, I did three double crochet to reduce any chance of bunching. This helps it lay flat.
Cut off the yarn leaving a 12 inch tail. Using the yarn needle weave in the tail. Cut off any excess.
Color Rows for Pattern
Starting in the middle, two rounds of Claret. Change colors.
- Two rounds of medium Thyme. Change colors.
- Two rounds of Coffee. Change colors.
- Two rounds of Buff. Change colors.
- Claret-Three rounds. Change colors.
- Three rounds of medium Thyme. Change colors.
- Coffee-Three rounds. Change colors.
- Three rounds of Buff. Change colors.
- Claret-Three rounds. Change colors.
- Three rounds of medium Thyme.
- Change colors. Coffee-Three rounds. Change colors.
- Three rounds of Buff. Change colors.
- Claret-Three rounds.
Finishing
Weave in yarn ends and cut off the extra yarn.
Truly a Joy to Crochet This Blanket
When I gave the afghan to my sister and brother-in-law, it was a wonderful and special moment.
Even my brother-in-law recognized his mother’s crochet hook!
He said that he would always see her using just that one. (I gave back the hook with the afghan as I thought it would be a special memory when given back together).
Then I had made smaller granny square table cloths from my nephew and nieces. They too were teary eyed when they received their special gift.
I truly feel blessed to have the gift of crochet. What a wonderful memory and I hope, a long, lasting memory for my family. We miss you and love you Florence.
Two Videos on Granny Square Basics
Here is a video tutorial on making a granny square.
Here is video tutorial on adding a new color when making a granny square
Once you learn how to make this pattern, you can make all types of granny square designs
You may also like these free granny square blankets and other easy crochet patterns.
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.