Granny Classic Afghan Pattern

The Timeless Charm of the Granny Classic Afghan Pattern

In the world of crochet, few patterns are as beloved and enduring as the Granny Classic Afghan. With its nostalgic charm and timeless appeal, this pattern has warmed homes and hearts for generations. Its straightforward construction, limitless color possibilities, and cozy aesthetic have made it a favorite for crocheters of all skill levels. In this post, we’ll explore the history behind this classic design, guide you through creating your own, and share tips for customization and finishing.

A Bit of History

The Granny Classic Afghan pattern has been around for decades, although its exact origin remains a bit of a mystery. It gained mainstream popularity during the 1970s, when the granny square became a cultural icon of handmade home décor. Originally, this pattern was a clever way for crafters to use up leftover yarn. With time, it evolved into a symbol of creativity and resourcefulness, celebrated for its simplicity and charm.

What Makes It a Classic?

At its core, this afghan is made up of small motifs—commonly known as granny squares. Each square is crocheted in the round, typically using clusters of double crochet stitches. These squares are then joined together to create a full-size blanket. The beauty of this method is its flexibility—you can mix and match colors, add or subtract rounds, and assemble the squares in endless configurations.

Granny Classic Afghan Pattern: Step-by-Step

Tools & Materials

Crochet Hook: 6.5 mm [US K-10.5]
Gauge: 9 rounds = 10½” across in pattern
Note: Adjust hook size as needed to meet gauge.

How to Crochet the Basic Square

Foundation:
Chain 5. Join with a slip stitch to form a ring.
Round 1:
Chain 3 (counts as first double crochet), work 2 double crochet into the ring, chain 2.
[3 double crochet, chain 2] into the ring 3 more times.
Join with a slip stitch to the top of the starting chain-3. Fasten off.
Round 2:
Join a new color in any chain-2 corner space. Chain 3, then (2 double crochet, chain 2, 3 double crochet) in the same space.
Chain 1 and repeat the same group in each of the remaining chain-2 spaces.
Join and fasten off.
Round 3:
Join a new color in any chain-2 corner. Chain 3, (2 double crochet, chain 2, 3 double crochet) in the same space.
Chain 1, 3 double crochet in next chain-1 space, chain 1. Repeat from * to next corner.
Continue around, join, and fasten off.
Rounds 4–9:
Join a new color in any chain-2 corner. Continue the same pattern:
(3 double crochet, chain 2, 3 double crochet) in corners; 3 double crochet in each chain-1 space, separated by chain 1.
Join and fasten off at the end of each round.

Joining the Squares

After making the first square, join subsequent ones as you crochet Round 9.

To join one side:

Begin Round 9 as usual.
When you reach a corner: chain 1, place wrong sides together, single crochet in the corner space of the completed square, chain 1, continue the round.
Join in chain-1 spaces with single crochet, then resume the granny pattern.
Join additional squares by connecting 1 or 2 sides as needed.
When squares meet at a corner, join with a single crochet in the existing single crochet at the junction.

Color Sequences and Assembly

Make a total of 30 squares, 5 each in 6 different color sequences. Use a placement diagram (not shown here) to guide the layout of your afghan.

Edging

Round 1:
With the right side facing, join your chosen edging color in any chain-2 corner. Work the same pattern as Round 4 around the entire afghan.
Round 2:
Repeat Round 4 with the same or a contrasting color. Slip stitch to the chain-2 space of a corner to finish.
Round 3 (Final Edge):
Chain 1. In each corner chain-2 space: (single crochet, chain 2, single crochet).
Then:
Chain 3, single crochet in the next chain-1 space. Repeat between corners.
Join with a slip stitch to the first single crochet. Fasten off and weave in all ends.

Abbreviations

CA, CB, CC… = Colors A, B, C, etc.
ch = chain
dc = double crochet
sc = single crochet
sl st = slip stitch
sp = space
st(s) = stitch(es)
rnd = round
rep = repeat

Finished Size

Approximate dimensions: 54½” x 65”

Square Color Sequences (Sample)

Each row below represents a 9-round square, with the colors listed in the order used:

CB, CH, CG, CF, CA, CE, CD, CC, CJ
CA, CD, CG, CF, CJ, CE, CB, CH, CI
CF, CA, CJ, CD, CI, CB, CC, CE, CG
CG, CC, CJ, CA, CI, CH, CE, CD, CF
CI, CB, CC, CG, CD, CA, CH, CJ, CE
CH, CG, CA, CD, CE, CC, CI, CF, CB

Let’s Crochet Together

Whether you’re a seasoned crocheter or just picking up your first hook, the Granny Classic Afghan is a delightful and rewarding project. In this blog, I share not only classic patterns like this one but also modern takes—from whimsical amigurumi to elegant shawls.

So grab your favorite yarn and let’s make something beautiful together.
Happy crocheting! 🧶✨