Crochet Fundamentals: How to Make a Basic Granny Square

The granny square has been around for decades, and with good reason! It's the most versatile pattern out there and it can be used to make anything from afghans to gorgeous garments. If you’ve always wanted to learn how to crochet, follow our series of Crochet Fundamentals. This pattern uses US terms and stitches include double crochet (dc); slip stitch (sl st) and chain (ch).

Supplies

• Yarn
• Crochet hook
• Scissors
• Click here to learn more about essential crochet tools

1. Crochet the Granny Square

Step 1

To start your granny square, make a magic circle and secure with a stitch. If you don’t know how to do this, be sure to check out our video tutorial on how to make a magic circle.

Chain two (counting as 1 dc), then work two double crochet (dc) into the ring. Chain one and work three dc into the ring. *ch1, dc3* around, until you have four 3dc-clusters separated by ch3.

Pull the yarn tail to close the circle, and then finish the round by slip stitching into the back loop of your beginning chain two.

Step 2

Chain three (counting as 1 dc), then work two double crochet (dc) into the ch1 space from the previous round. Chain one.

Work *3dc, ch1* into each of the next corners.

When you get to the last corner, work three double crochet into the ch1 space, chain 1 and join with a slip stitch.

Step 3

Your granny square is now complete. You can make it bigger by adding more rounds. Work *3dc, ch1, 3dc* in each corner and *3dc* in each side.

Watch the Video

Learn how to make a granny square with my step-by-step video tutorial. Watch the video tutorial here.

Now Make a Granny Square Cushion!

In this tutorial, you've learned how to make the versatile granny square, and how to easily increase its size.

This is one of the most fundamental crochet skills you can have under your belt, and now you know what to do, the possibilities are endless. Why don't you start by whipping up a nice stack of granny squares, and let your creativity do the rest! You might like to try our tutorial on how to make a granny square cushion cover.

Are you learning to crochet? Did you find this tutorial helpful? Let us know in the comments below.