Beginner Granny Square
The granny square is one of the most useful things you can learn in crochet. This version keeps to four rounds of simple double crochet clusters in a single color, so you can focus on the rhythm: clusters, chain spaces and corners.
- Skill level
- Beginner
- Finished size
- About 4.5–5 in (11–13 cm) square after 4 rounds
- Yarn weight
- Medium / Worsted
- Hook
- 5 mm (US H-8)
- Time
- About 45 minutes
- Terminology
- US terms
Gauge: Not critical for a single square. For a blanket, make every square with the same yarn and hook so they come out the same size.
On this page
About this pattern
Each round is built from groups of three double crochet stitches worked into the spaces of the round below. Corners get two groups separated by two chains, and each side gets one group per space, so every round grows by twelve stitches and the square stays flat.
Once the pattern clicks, you can change color on any round, keep going to make one large square, or join lots of small squares together. Three rounds make a coaster-sized square, and four make a 4.5–5 in (11–13 cm) square for joining. Keep adding rounds for a pillow front or even a whole blanket.
Why you'll love it
- Only chains, slip stitches and double crochet
- The repeat quickly becomes second nature
- A perfect use for leftover yarn
- Your first step toward blankets, bags and cardigans made from squares
Materials
Worsted-weight yarn
A smooth, light-colored yarn makes the stitches easier to see
About 20 yd (18 m) per 4-round square
5 mm (US H-8) crochet hook
Tapestry needle and scissors
Abbreviations
- ch
- chain
- sl st
- slip stitchUK: ss
- dc
- double crochetUK: tr
- ch-sp
- chain space
- sp(s)
- space(s)
- st(s)
- stitch(es)
- rnd(s)
- round(s)
- rep
- repeat
- [ ]
- repeat the instructions inside the brackets the number of times stated
- *
- repeat from the asterisk as instructed
- ( )
- stitch count at the end of a round or row, or a group worked into one stitch
This pattern uses US terms. Convert US ↔ UK terms
Stitches used
Notes before you start
- The beginning chain 3 counts as the first double crochet of every round.
- Work every round with the right side facing you — do not turn.
- A corner is (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) worked into the same chain-2 space.
- The stitch count shows the total number of double crochet at the end of each round.
Free pattern
The pattern
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Tick rows and rounds as you finish them — your progress is saved on this device.
Center ring
Rounds
Tip: To make a bigger square, keep going. Each new round has one more 3-dc group on every side than the round before, and 12 more double crochet in total.
Finishing
Tip: If your square curls, block it: pin it flat to size, mist it with water and let it dry completely.
Tips
- If your square twists as it grows, check that you are working into the chain spaces rather than into the tops of the stitches.
- Count your corners — every round needs exactly four corners, each with a chain-2 space.
- Keep your chains relaxed so the spaces are easy to work into on the next round.
Variations
- Color-change square
- Fasten off at the end of any round and join a new color with a sl st in a corner space, then start the next round as usual.
- Cotton coaster
- Stop after Round 3 and use cotton yarn, which handles warm mugs and washing well.
- One big granny blanket
- Keep adding rounds until the square is the size you want — a single square can become a whole blanket.
Common questions
Why does my granny square look round instead of square?
The corners are usually missing their chain-2 spaces or have too few stitches. Each corner needs two 3-dc groups with ch 2 between them.
Should I turn my work at the end of each round?
Not in this pattern. Some makers turn every round to reduce the natural slight twist of the square — that works too, as long as you are consistent.
How many squares do I need for a blanket?
Measure one finished square, then use the granny square calculator in our Tools section to plan the number of squares and layout.
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