How to Crochet a Granny Square

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When people think of crochet, they usually think of the granny square, because it’s the quintessential crochet motif. Clustered stitches and open spaces create a block or square design. Crocheters easily change colors each round, so they use it for stash-busting. Granny square basics are easy to learn and one of the first things I like to teach new crocheters.

Once you’ve mastered the basic granny square below, put it into practice with some super fun projects!

Granny Square Basics

To make granny squares, you need to know how to crochet a chain (ch), a slip stitch (sl st), and a double crochet (dc). Here are the step-by-step instructions and chart for how to crochet a basic granny square.

Granny Square Pattern

• Ch 4, sl st in in 4th ch from hook to form a ring (Figure A).
• Rnd 1: Ch 5 (count as a dc, ch 2 throughout), 3 dc in ring, (Figure B), ch 2, [3 dc in ring, ch 2] 2 times, 2 dc in ring, sl st in 3rd ch of beg ch-5 to join (Figure C).
• Rnd 2: Sl st in first ch-2 sp, ch 5, 3 dc in same sp as last sl st made, [ch 1, (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in next ch-2 sp] 3 times, ch 1, 2 dc in same sp as first 3 dc, sl st in 3rd ch of beg ch-5 to join (Figure D).
• Rnd 3: Sl st in first ch-2 sp, ch 5, 3 dc in same sp as last sl st made, *ch 1, 3 dc in next ch-1 sp, ch 1**, (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in next ch-2 sp; rep from * around, ending last rep at **, 2 dc in same sp as first 3 dc, sl st in 3rd ch of beg ch-5 to join (Figure E).
• Rnd 4: Sl st in first ch-2 sp, ch 5, 3 dc in same sp as last sl st made, *[ch 1, 3 dc in next ch-1 sp] across to next ch-2 sp, ch 1**, (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in next ch-2 sp; rep from * around, ending last rep at **, 2 dc in same sp as first 3 dc, sl st in 3rd ch of beg ch-5 to join.
• Rep Rnd 4 as desired.

Granny Square Chart

Related: Crochet Granny Square Tips and Variations

Granny Square Crochet Projects

Practice the basic granny square pattern above in a single color, or change the color every row. Once you’ve mastered this pattern, give these fun projects a try.

1. Mod Squad Bag

Great for beginners, the Mod Squad Bag by Brett Bara uses basic granny squares to create a bold graphic design. A simple crocheted lining worked in single crochet keeps your daily necessities secure inside.

2. Sundance Dress

Create your own flirty Sundance Dress with the granny stitch following this cool design by Moon Eldridge. Crochet two large granny squares to make a stylish tank, then use the granny stitch to add a skirt with flair.

3. Marmalade Skies Afghan

Turn the granny squares on an angle and join them with rhombus-shaped motifs fora crazy mixed-up Marmalade Skies Afghan by Mary Beth Temple.

4. Lottie Top Crochet Pattern

The granny stitch takes center stage in Moon Eldridge’s colorful Lottie Top. Exaggerated raglan lines in the granny square create a deep neckline and butterfly-wing sleeves.

5. Gobi Dress

Cotton thread makes the granny square look mighty fine. The Gobi Dress by Annastasia Cruz incorporates small granny stitch and squares into a stunning lace dress.

6. My Favorite Play Blanket

Edge a simple 2-color granny square with the lacy pineapple stitch to create a lacy play blanket that your kids will love.

Want to stitch all the grannies? A few of these, plus some other favorites, appear in our Interweave Favorites: Granny Square Pattern Collection.

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Are you a granny fan? If you’re curious and want to learn more, check out our article on the origins of the granny square. Let us know your favorite granny square projects in the comments!

Originally published April 20, 2017. Updated November 4, 2022.

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Hook Up a Granny Square Project!