How to Crochet a Granny Square

Granny squares, worked in two or more colors, are stitched together to make decorative afghans, shawls and other accessories. Open spaces between clusters of double crochet produce a lacy effect. Check project instructions in craft books for specific granny-square patterns.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Crochet Patterns
• Knitting Gauge Rulers
• Ring Markers
• Crochet Hooks
• Crochet Thread
• Row Counter
• Tapestry Needles
• Yarns
• Scissors
• Scissors

1. Chain stitch the number of stitches specified in pattern.

2. Make a slip stitch in top chain to make the chain form a ring.

3. Chain three. (This counts as the first of three double crochets.) Make two double crochets, chain two, make three double crochets in ring.

4. Wrap yarn over hook and draw through three loops on hook with one loop remaining on hook.

5. Continue sequence of three double crochets with two chains between them as directed in your pattern.

6. Switch yarn colors between rounds.

Tips & Warnings

• Scrap yarn works well for granny squares.
• To chain stitch, start about 6 inches from the end of the yarn. Make a slip knot - a loose single knot with a loop just large enough to slip the hook through - around the hook. Wrap yarn over hook from back to front between hook end and knot. Draw yarn through loop. Repeat for desired number of stitches.
• To make a double crochet, wrap yarn over hook from back to front. Insert hook into both loops of the next top stitch in previous row or the next back loop of foundation chain. Wrap yarn over hook again. Draw yarn through the stitch.

on 11/22/2005 Choose to make 2 chain sts or 3 chain sts at corners of granny squares according to your individual tension. My tension is quite loose, so I regularly have to make less joining chains between groups of sts to keep the fabric flat. If you have a tighter tension you may find 3 chain corners sit better.

on 11/22/2005 I was always taught that there are three chain stitches between the three double crochets on each corner.