Granny Square 101 – Everything You Want to Know in 30 Questions

The granny square is one of the most iconic and beloved crochet motifs.

These charming little squares have a rich history dating back to the late 1800s, and their popularity continues.

Here are the answers to everything you need to know about Granny Squares!

What is a granny square?

A granny square is a classic crochet motif made by working in the round from the center outward, usually with double crochet stitches, to form a square shape.

It is traditionally handmade.

Granny squares are made with a series of chains and clusters of double crochet stitches that create a lace-like, open texture.

Why is it called a granny square?

The exact origin of the name “granny square” is unknown, but there are a few theories.

One is that these squares were traditionally crocheted by grandmothers using scraps of leftover yarn. 

Feeling the pattern is also an advantage for a “granny” with failing eyesight. 

However, the name didn’t become popular until the 1970s, possibly because many people’s grandmothers had made granny square blankets in the 1930s when the motif surged in popularity.

What are granny squares used for?

Granny squares are very versatile and can be used to make lots of items.

Multiple squares are often combined to create clothing, accessories like purses and bags, and household textiles such as blankets, pillows, potholders, and more. 

They can also be used individually for smaller projects like coasters, dishcloths, bookmarks, and mug cozies.

Are granny squares easy for beginners?

Yes, basic granny squares are considered very beginner-friendly.

The classic granny square uses just a few basic crochet stitches: chain stitch, double crochet, and slip stitch. 

The repeating pattern helps beginners get a feel for the stitches and rhythm.

Granny squares are also small and portable, so they aren’t as overwhelming as larger projects for a new crocheter.

How many types of granny squares are there?

There are countless variations of granny squares.

While the traditional granny square is the most well-known, the term has expanded to include many different square motifs that maintain the basic idea of working in the round from the center out, even if they use different stitch patterns. 

Some common variations include solid granny squares, puff stitch squares, flower motifs, and textured or 3D designs.

The color combinations and arrangement are also infinitely customizable.

What size crochet hook should you use to crochet granny squares?

The crochet hook size depends on the weight of the yarn you are using.

Most granny square patterns recommend worsted weight yarn with a 5.5mm to 6.5mm hook size. 

For finer weight yarns, a smaller hook like 4mm can be used.

In general, choose a hook size that gives you a tight, neat stitch for the best-looking granny squares

What type of yarn should you use to crochet granny squares?

Worsted-weight acrylic yarn is a popular choice for granny squares because it is affordable, comes in many colors, is easy to care for, and has good stitch definition. 

Cotton yarns are also commonly used and provide a different texture. 

For a luxurious feel, wool or wool-blend yarns can be nice.

The most important thing is to choose a yarn you enjoy working.

How do you crochet a granny square?

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And pick a project to get started.

How do you start a granny square? What are the different methods?

The most common way to start a granny square is by making a slip knot, chaining 4, and joining with a slip stitch to form a small ring. 

Then the first round is worked into the center of this ring.

Some alternate methods are:

• Magic ring/magic circle start
• Chaining more stitches (like 6) and joining, then working the first round into the larger ring

How do you change colors in a granny square?

To change colors, work the last stitch of a round until there are 2 loops left on the hook. Yarn over with the new color and pull through both loops.

Then proceed to the next round, building off the new color.

Carry the old color up the side as you work the next round.

For a cleaner look, some prefer to cut the old color, pull through, and start the next round with a standing stitch in the new color.

Weave in ends as you go or after finishing the square.

How do you join granny squares together?

There are several methods to join granny squares, including:

1. Whipstitch – sew squares together through one or both loops
2. Single crochet – work single crochet stitches through both loops of adjacent squares
3. Slip stitch – work slip stitches through both loops on right or wrong side
4. Slip stitch and chain – alternate slip stitches and chains for a lacy join

Joining can be done with the same color as the squares for a seamless look or a contrasting color for visual interest.

How many granny squares do you need for a blanket?

The number of squares needed depends on the size of the squares and the desired blanket dimensions.

For example, for 5″ squares and a 50″x 75″ blanket, you would need 120 squares (10 squares wide by 12 squares long).

It’s best to make a sample square, measure it, and then calculate how many are needed to reach the target size.

Also, consider the border size in your calculations and the total amount of yarn required based on the weight of each square.

How do you crochet a small granny square?

Small granny squares are made the same as regular ones, just with fewer rounds.

Crochet the starting ring, then work clusters of double crochet stitches in each round, separated by chain stitches at the corners.

Stop when the square reaches the desired size, usually around 3-4 rounds.

Smaller hooks and finer-weight yarn will also result in smaller squares.

What can you make with granny squares besides blankets?

Granny squares are extremely versatile for projects beyond blankets. Some ideas include:

• Pillows and cushion covers
• Bags, purses, and pouches
• Garments like vests, sweaters, shrugs
• Accessories – hats, headbands, fingerless gloves, slippers
• Home decor – potholders, dishcloths, coasters, baskets
• Seasonal items – stockings, ornaments, bunting

Why are my granny squares not square?

The most common reasons for granny squares turning out wonky are:

• Inconsistent tension between rounds
• Adding or omitting stitches
• Not working the same number of stitches on each side
• Crocheting too tightly or loosely

Blocking the finished squares can help even them out. Using stitch markers and carefully counting stitches also improves the shape.

Why is my crochet granny square curling?

Granny squares often curl because of uneven tension or stitch counts between rounds.

Some common causes are:

• Crocheting too tightly, especially in the first few rounds
• Adding or skipping stitches, throwing off the stitch count
• Not working the corners correctly (usually 2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc)
• Using a hook that is too small for the yarn weight

Not to sound like a broken record, but blocking the finished square can help flatten it out.

Being mindful of tension and using stitch markers to keep count also prevents curling.

Which is the right side of a granny square?

The right side of a granny square is the side facing you as you crochet the first round.

It’s characterized by:

• The tail from the starting slip knot is at the back
• The tops of the stitches are visible and form distinct Vs
• The back ridge of the chain stitches isn’t visible

The wrong side will have the slip knot tail poking out and the back ridges showing more prominently.

However, many granny square designs are reversible with no distinct right or wrong side.

How do you close a granny square?

To close a granny square:

1. Cut the yarn, leaving a 6″ tail.
2. Yarn over and pull the tail all the way through the last loop to secure it.
3. Thread the tail onto a tapestry needle.
4. Weave the tail through stitches on the back of the work to hide it. Go back and forth a few times.
5. Snip off the excess tail close to the surface of the square.

Alternatively, you can slip stitch to the starting stitch, then cut the yarn and pull it through the loop to fasten off.

Is blocking a granny square permanent?

Blocking is not completely permanent, but it does offer lasting benefits, especially for natural fibers.

Wool and other animal fibers hold their blocked shape well until getting wet again.

Plant fibers like cotton are less resilient and may need touch-up blocking after washing.

Acrylic yarn, once blocked with heat, does maintain its shape almost permanently, as the fibers are heat-set into place.

Do you have to block granny squares?

While not absolutely mandatory (because you do you), blocking granny squares is highly recommended.

Blocking evens out stitches sets the shape, and makes the squares look more polished and professional.

It’s especially important to block if the squares are at all misshapen or curling.

Blocking also makes seaming easier by opening up the stitches along the edges. You can get away without blocking, but it does make a positive difference in the finished look of the project.

What happens if you don’t block granny squares?

If you choose not to block your granny squares, they may appear slightly misshapen or have curled edges.

The overall project may look less polished and professional compared to blocked squares. 

However, in some cases, like when using acrylic yarn, the difference may be less noticeable, and blocking is not always necessary. 

Ultimately, it’s a personal choice based on the desired finished look.

Can blocking make granny squares bigger or smaller?

Blocking can help achieve the desired size for your granny squares.

Gently stretching the squares during the blocking process can make them slightly bigger, while compressing them can make them a bit smaller. 

However, blocking will not significantly change the size of the squares.

It’s more about evening-out inconsistencies and creating a uniform appearance.

How do you block granny squares without a board or pins?

If you don’t have a blocking board or pins, you can improvise with household items:

• Use thick towels, blankets, or a carpet to lay out your squares. Shape them by hand and allow them to air dry.
• Repurpose foam boards or cardboard as a pinning surface. You can use regular sewing pins instead of blocking pins.
• For a quick block, use an iron on the steam setting, holding it slightly above the square without touching the fibers directly

Can you block granny squares more than once?

Yes, you can block granny squares multiple times if needed.

Blocking is not always a permanent process, especially for natural fibers that may relax after washing. 

If your squares become misshapen over time or after laundering, you can re-block them to restore their shape and appearance.

What other ways can you make granny squares neater?

In addition to blocking, there are a few other ways to achieve neater granny squares:

• Maintain consistent tension while crocheting to minimize size discrepancies between squares.
• Count stitches carefully in each round to prevent adding or omitting stitches.
• Use stitch markers to keep track of rounds and ensure even spacing.
• Weave in ends securely on the wrong side of the square for a clean finish.

Should you block granny squares before joining them?

Yes, it is recommended to block granny squares before joining them together.

Blocking helps even out the stitches, sets the shape, and makes the squares lay flat.

This results in a neater, more professional look and makes the joining process easier, as the edges of the squares will line up better.

How long does it take to crochet a granny square?

The time it takes to crochet a granny square varies depending on the size, complexity of the pattern, and the crocheter’s speed.

However, a basic solid granny square typically takes around 12-15 minutes to complete.

How do you weave in the ends of a granny square?

To weave in the ends of a granny square:

1. Thread the yarn tail onto a tapestry needle.
2. Weave the needle back and forth through the stitches on the wrong side of the square, following the path of the stitches.
3. Secure the center of the square by weaving through the starting ring a couple of times.
4. Trim the excess yarn close to the surface of the square

When and why should you turn your granny squares?

Turning your granny squares means working on the opposite side in each round, resulting in a more textured, reversible fabric.

This is a matter of personal preference and pattern design.

Some patterns may specifically call for turning after each round.

If the pattern doesn’t specify, the crocheter must decide based on the desired look of the finished project.

What are some common mistakes when crocheting granny squares?

Some common mistakes beginners make when crocheting granny squares include:

• Using the wrong size crochet hook for the yarn weight
• Crocheting with too-tight or too-loose tension
• Not counting stitches accurately in each round
• Not following the pattern instructions carefully
• Confusing US and UK crochet terminology
• Not weaving in ends securely

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