Granny squares are one of the most popular kinds of crochet patterns, and for good reason! They’re easy to create with just a little practice.
But if you want to take your grannies to the next level, try these 10 variations that will show off your skills and make your project stand out from all the rest.
| Takeaways |
|---|
| Granny square crochet is a classic and versatile technique that can be used to make a variety of projects. |
| It is a beginner-friendly technique that can be learned with just a few basic stitches. |
| There are many variations and styles of granny squares to choose from, and you can mix and match them to create unique designs. |
| You can incorporate granny squares into larger projects, such as blankets, scarves, and sweaters, or make standalone items like coasters or pot holders. |
| The technique can be used with any type of yarn, and the weight and texture of the yarn will affect the final look of your project. |
1. Granny Square With a Regular Border
The first step is to make a granny square. You can find an easy tutorial on this by searching “granny square” or “crochet.” Once you’ve made your piece, it’s time to add the border!
To create a regular border, simply use Chain 3 and Slip Stitch into the first stitch of each row around your square.
Remember that when working in rows for a granny square, you need to start with chain 5 instead of chain 4. Otherwise, follow all other instructions as normal!
If you’re looking to take your crochet skills to the next level, the Art of Broomstick Lace Crochet is definitely worth exploring. With its unique texture and distinct look, this technique can add a touch of sophistication to any project.
2. Crochet Granny Square With a Wavy Border
For this design, we used a size H hook and Lily Sugar ‘n Cream Cotton yarn in the color White. You’ll need to make 6 granny squares in total.
To create the wavy border, follow these steps:
Round 1: Chain 3, join with slip stitch to first chain to form a ring; work 16 double crochets into ring; slip stitch into first double crochet; chain 2 (counts as first double crochet); work 1 double crochet in same stitch as joining slip stitch; work 2 more double crochets in same stitch as joining slip stitch;
work 3 double crochets around post of next dc below and repeat from
4 more times; at end of round, finish off by working 1 single crochet into space between last dc and ch-2 that began round.
Round 2: Join new color with sc in space between any two sc’s from previous row but not too close that you can’t get your hook around it easily) Ch 3 (counts as dc), skip next st – this will be skipped because of how our pattern is written out – then dc in next st – repeat across until last two stitches where you will stop before finishing each row off with a sl st into top of turning chain from previous rnd ending there so that you won’t accidentally miss where it should go if you’re looking while working on another one.”
Looking for a way to add some coziness and warmth to your home décor? Take a look at our guide on Crochet Your Way to Beautiful Home Decor. With easy-to-follow patterns and helpful tips, you can create stunning pieces that will make any space feel like home.
3. Raised Granny Squares
Raised granny squares are an excellent way to get started with crochet. If you’ve never made a granny square before, don’t worry! This style of crochet is easy and the raised effect gives the finished piece a unique look.
To begin, make a regular granny square using any yarn and hook combination you’d like. I recommend using thicker yarn and larger hooks for this project so that your stitches will stand out more prominently.
After completing each round of single crochet stitches, change colors by knotting off one color and leaving it long enough to tie on another color with a slip knot at the end.
Once all rounds have been completed, use this same technique for making an edging around the outside edge of your blanket or bag!
Here’s a simple table detailing the steps to make a raised granny square:
| Steps | Description |
|---|---|
| Round 1 | Make a magic ring and chain 3. Work 2 double crochets into the ring, chain 2, then work 3 more double crochets into the ring. Chain 2, then join with a slip stitch to the top of the first chain. |
| Round 2 | Chain 3, then work a double crochet in the next 2 stitches. In the corner space, work 2 double crochets, 2 chains, and 2 more double crochets. Repeat this pattern (3 double crochets in the next 3 stitches, followed by 2 double crochets, 2 chains, and 2 double crochets in the corner space) until you reach the beginning. Join with a slip stitch to the top of the first chain. |
| Round 3 | Chain 3, then work a double crochet in each stitch until the corner space. In the corner space, work 2 double crochets, 2 chains, and 2 more double crochets. Repeat this pattern around, then join with a slip stitch to the top of the first chain. |
| Rounds 4 and above | Continue repeating Round 3, working 2 double crochets, 2 chains, and 2 double crochets in each corner space, until your square reaches the desired size. |
4. Spike Stitch Granny Square
The spike stitch is a simple variation of the double crochet stitch. It’s often used in granny squares to add a little bit of texture to them, but it can also be used on its own.
To start a spike stitch row, you’ll chain three and insert your hook into the second chain from your hook.
Yarn over and pull up a loop until there are three loops on your hook (the same as for an ordinary double crochet). Then yarn over again and pull through all three loops on your hook (you should have one loop left).
You’ll work four more rows of double crochets into that first space before moving on to another space in order to make sure that you don’t run out of yarn while working your way down the side of your square!
5. Colorful Hexagon Granny Squares
You can use a variety of colors for your granny square, but make sure the colors are compatible. If you don’t like how two or more yarns look together, try to avoid them. Otherwise, choose a variegated yarn and decide whether or not you want some color variation.
You can use any crochet stitch pattern as long as it works up evenly; there’s no need to follow the same pattern over and over again!
If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try crocheting with different patterns in each square? You could even make the squares bigger or smaller by changing up your hook size (if using the same weight). The possibilities are endless!
From afghans to wall hangings, granny squares can be used to make a variety of gorgeous home décor. To see just how versatile this classic crochet technique can be, check out our latest guide, From Granny Squares to Gorgeous Home Decor.
6. Colorful Granny Squares in Mixed Sizes
Use a mix of different sizes. Granny squares come in all shapes and sizes, but using a mix of different-sized squares gives your design more depth.
You can choose wide squares for the outer edge and then increase the size of each square toward the center, or use one large square surrounded by smaller ones.
Use a variety of yarns and colors. One way to add interest to your project is by combining various types of yarns: try acrylic blends with cotton blends; soft chenille with smooth wool; glittery thread with matte variegated yarns in similar colors anything goes!
You could also make individual grannies from different colors so that when you put them together it makes an eye-catching patchwork quilt look (see below).
Experiment with stitches. If you’re feeling adventurous, try out some new stitches! Try out double crochet stitches instead of single crochet stitches if you normally use single crochets; work treble crochets into half double crochets as well as double crochets; do a foundation chain using half double crochet stitches instead of single crochet stitches the possibilities are endless!
Here is a simple table detailing the steps to make colorful granny squares in mixed sizes:
| Steps | Description |
|---|---|
| Step 1: Choose your colors. | Select an assortment of yarns in different colors and textures. |
| Step 2: Choose your hook size. | The hook size you use will depend on the weight of your yarn. |
| Step 3: Choose your pattern. | Decide on the pattern and style of granny square you want to make, and how many rounds you want it to have. |
| Step 4: Start with the center. | Make a magic ring and work a round of double crochets, increasing as necessary to create the desired size. |
| Step 5: Continue with the rounds. | Work subsequent rounds in the same or contrasting colors, alternating between different patterns, stitches, and sizes to create a mixed, colorful effect. |
| Step 6: Join the squares together. | Once you have made several granny squares in different sizes and colors, join them together to create a larger project such as a blanket or throw. |
7. Star Stitch Crochet Granny Squares
The star stitch is a variation of the granny square that creates a square with a star pattern. The center of the square looks like an asterisk with points, or like four connected diamonds.
You make this stitch by working 5 double crochet stitches in the same stitch, then working 2 double crochet stitches in each of the next 3 stitches (see illustration).
This creates a diamond shape within your square which makes it look like there are four arms holding up one pointy part!
The only downside to using this pattern is that it can be difficult to keep track of where you’re going when you’re counting multiple increases along with changes in color and yarn thicknesses so if you find yourself getting lost while following a written pattern for star stitch squares (or any other kind), try viewing them as single crochets instead!
If you’re a crochet enthusiast, you know that there’s nothing quite like creating something beautiful that reflects the season. Our guide, Crochet Home Decor for Every Season, is here to help you bring the beauty of every season into your living space
8. Small Filet Crochet Granny Square
If you’re looking for a small filet crochet granny square, this is the tutorial for you! This post will walk you through how to make a small filet crochet granny square that features a border.
If you want to learn how to make a granny square with a wavy border and/or raised center (also known as “3D”), check out these two other posts on my blog:
- How To Crochet A Wavy Border Granny Square
- Raised Granny Square Tutorial
Here is a simple table detailing the steps to make a small filet crochet granny square:
| Steps | Description |
|---|---|
| Step 1: Choose your yarn and hook. | Select a fine yarn and a small hook size that will create a tight, dense fabric. |
| Step 2: Choose your pattern. | A simple filet crochet pattern that works well for granny squares is a block pattern using double crochet (dc) and chain (ch) stitches. For example: ch 3, dc in next stitch, ch 1, skip next stitch, dc in next stitch; repeat from * to * until the end of the round. |
| Step 3: Start with the center. | Make a magic ring and work a round of double crochets (dc) following the chosen pattern until the square is the desired size. |
| Step 4: Work additional rounds. | Continue working additional rounds of the same pattern to build up the square to the desired size. |
| Step 5: Finish the square. | End the last round with a slip stitch (sl st) and weave in the ends. |
9. Linked Crochet Hexagons
Linked crochet hexagons are a fun way to make a crocheted fabric. The process involves working the hexagon in rounds, then joining the rounds together with single crochet stitches to create a seamless circle.
Once you’ve mastered this technique, you can use it in many different projects.
Here’s how to crochet a linked hexagon:
- Chain 6, join with a slip stitch
- Ch 2 (counts as 1st hdc), hdc 12 times into ring (13 sts)
- Join with sl st at top of beginning ch-2; fasten off
- Weave ends into work – do not cut ends short! They’ll be used later on!
Now that we’ve made one side of our first linked crochet triangle, let’s continue making more sides until we have six total sides for our finished square – just keep repeating steps 1-3 five more times!
10. Colored Granny Squares in Spiral Pattern
When you want to add a little more color and texture to your granny square, try one of these variations:
Using different colors of yarn. This is the most common way to change up the look of your granny squares. You can use multiple shades from the same color family, or use several different colors altogether.
Using different types of beads. Try using different sizes, shapes and materials for some extra sparkle! You can also choose between round and flat beads for an even wider range in texture.
Using thread with your yarn instead of using just one or two strands together at once like normal crochet does when working with thick threads like this one here which is made out about 3/4″ wide so we recommend using only 2 strands at most since it would be difficult otherwise due to all those loops being so close together (even though there are 4 balls per package!).
Ready to add a touch of DIY charm to your living space? Take a look at our latest guide on Transforming Your Home with These Crochet Decorations. From doilies to rugs, we’ve got plenty of project ideas to get you started
11. Beaded Crochet Hexagon Grannies
This is a great project for those who are new to beading crochet. It’s a simple, quick and easy pattern with minimal fuss. A small bead goes a long way here! Simply use any color of yarn, any size of beads and any size of hook.
If you want to make these grannies even more special, try mixing and matching different yarns together.
You can also add an extra layer of texture by using two strands of yarn at once or combining different fiber types like cotton and wool for added warmth in winter months.
Conclusion
And there you have it! These are just a few examples of the many ways you can make your own granny squares.
You can play around with different colors, sizes, shapes and patterns. The possibilities are endless! If this post helped inspire some new ideas or get you started on your next project, I’d love to hear from you in our comments section below.
Further Reading
Here are some additional resources related to crocheting:
The Granny Square Book: Second Edition: This book is a comprehensive guide to the granny square crochet technique, featuring step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and a variety of project ideas.
Timeless Classics Pillows to Crochet: This book features 14 classic patterns for crocheting pillows of all shapes and sizes, using a variety of yarn colors and textures.
Granny Square Crochet: A Timeless Classic: This guide provides step-by-step instructions for making traditional granny squares, as well as ideas for incorporating them into larger projects.
FAQs
What is Granny Square Crochet?
Granny square crochet is a technique that involves creating small, square-shaped motifs (called “granny squares”) and joining them together to make larger projects.
What kind of projects can I make with granny square crochet?
Granny square crochet can be used to make a variety of projects, including blankets, scarves, shawls, sweaters, and more.
What kind of yarn should I use for granny square crochet?
You can use any type of yarn for granny square crochet, but the weight and texture of the yarn will affect the final look of your project.
How difficult is granny square crochet?
Granny square crochet is a beginner-friendly technique that can be learned with just a few basic stitches. With practice, you can create a variety of projects using this simple technique.
Are there any tips for joining granny squares together?
Yes, there are several techniques for joining granny squares together, including slip stitching, single crochet, and the whip stitch. Experiment with different methods to find the one that works best for your project.
My name is Hellen James, and I’m a crochet and knitting expert. I’ve been crocheting since I was just a kid, but I started taking it seriously when I realized that it was a great way to de-stress and relax. Now that I have kids of my own, I love teaching them how to do it too!