Crochet is a timeless and rewarding craft that lets you create everything from cozy blankets to chic accessories. If you’re new to crocheting, the granny square is the perfect project to start with. It’s simple, satisfying, and incredibly versatile—plus, it’s a great way to practice the basic stitches.
In this step-by-step guide, we’ll show you exactly how to crochet a traditional granny square, even if you’ve never picked up a hook before.
🌸 What is a Granny Square?
A granny square is a small, square-shaped crochet motif made using basic stitches—mainly the chain and double crochet. Its signature lacy, geometric look makes it both charming and iconic.
These little squares are perfect for using up leftover yarn and can be stitched in one solid color or a delightful mix of shades. Whether you’re making a blanket, pillow, bag, or scarf, granny squares are a fun and flexible building block for countless crochet projects.
🧶 What You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather these supplies:
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Yarn: Choose a medium-weight yarn (often labeled “worsted” or “aran”). Light-colored yarn is great for beginners because it’s easier to see your stitches.
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Crochet Hook: A 5.0 mm hook (US H/8) works well with medium-weight yarn. Always check your yarn label for the recommended hook size.
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Scissors: For cutting your yarn.
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Yarn Needle: To weave in the ends neatly once your square is finished.
🪡 Stitch Abbreviations
Here are the basic stitches you’ll be using:
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ch – chain stitch
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ch-sp – chain space
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dc – double crochet
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sl st – slip stitch (insert hook, yarn over, pull through both the stitch and loop on hook)
📘 Step-by-Step Granny Square Pattern
Foundation Ring:
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Chain 4.
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Slip stitch into the first chain to form a ring.
Round 1:
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Chain 3 (counts as your first dc), then work 2 dc into the ring.
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Chain 3.
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Work 3 dc, chain 3—repeat 3 more times.
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Join with a slip stitch to the top of the starting chain-3.
Round 2:
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Chain 4 (counts as 1 dc + chain-1).
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Into the next chain-3 space (corner), work: 3 dc, ch 3, 3 dc, ch 1.
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Repeat this (3 dc, ch 3, 3 dc, ch 1) two more times in each corner.
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In the final corner space, work: 3 dc, ch 3, 2 dc.
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Join with a slip stitch to the 3rd chain of the starting chain. Round 2 is complete.
Round 3:
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Chain 3 (counts as 1 dc).
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In the chain-1 space just below, work 2 dc, ch 1 (this makes the first granny cluster of the round).
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In the next corner (ch-3 space), work: 3 dc, ch 3, 3 dc, ch 1.
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In each chain-1 space, work: 3 dc, ch 1.
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Continue this pattern around.
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Join with a slip stitch to the top of the starting chain-3.
Round 4:
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Chain 4 (counts as 1 dc + ch 1).
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In each chain-1 space, work: 3 dc, ch 1.
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In each corner space (ch-3), work: 3 dc, ch 3, 3 dc, ch 1.
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Repeat around the square.
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At the final chain-1 space, work 2 dc.
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Join with a slip stitch to the top of the starting chain-3.
Finishing:
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Cut the yarn, leaving a 6-inch tail.
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Pull the yarn through the final stitch and use a yarn needle to weave in the ends securely.
🎉 Congratulations! You’ve completed your first granny square!
To make a larger square, simply keep adding rounds using the same pattern. Mix and match yarn colors to create vibrant designs and explore endless creative possibilities. With just a few squares, you can make everything from throw pillows to full-size blankets!
Video Tutorial
If you prefer video tutorials, you’re in luck! I highly recommend checking out this extensive tutorial tailored for visual learners who find video content more accessible than written instructions. The tutorial was carefully created by Amira Crafts Channel and you can access the video tutorial.
Dear crocheter friend, if you liked this article and wanted to have it in PDF, we can help you. You can access the PDF here below:
Access the PDF/ Basic Granny Square
🧵 From Us to You
We at Crochet Easy Blog hope you enjoyed this tutorial. Crochet is more than a hobby—it’s a joyful, creative journey that brings warmth, comfort, and beauty to everyday life.
Thanks for visiting! Come back any time for more patterns, tips, and inspiration. Until next time, happy hooking! 🧶✨
