A classic crochet granny square is a useful first motif for blankets, bags, cushion covers and patchwork accessories. This three-round beginner pattern uses groups of double crochet stitches and clearly defined corners. Work a small sample first, then repeat the same round structure to make larger squares.
Pattern status: This is an original written teaching pattern based on the traditional granny-square construction. The stitch arithmetic has been checked, but the instructions have not been physically test-crocheted. Finished measurements are approximate and depend on your tension.
Project at a Glance
- Skill level: Confident beginner
- Finished size: Approximately 9–12 cm across after three rounds with medium-weight yarn; measure your own sample
- Yarn: Smooth medium-weight cotton or acrylic yarn, approximately 15–25 g for a small sample (estimate, not a tested consumption figure)
- Hook: 4 mm or the size suggested on your yarn label
- Other tools: Scissors, blunt yarn needle, measuring tape
- Terms: US crochet terminology
Crochet Abbreviations
- ch: chain
- dc: double crochet (US)
- sl st: slip stitch
- sp: space
- st: stitch
- 3-dc group: three double crochet stitches worked into the same space; the beginning ch-3 counts as the first dc in the opening group
Important: The ch-2 at each corner forms the turning space. The ch-1 between groups forms a side gap. These chains are spaces, not extra double crochet stitches.
Round 1: Make the Centre and Four Corners
- Make a slip knot and chain 4. Join to the first chain with a slip stitch to form a small ring. Avoid twisting the chain.
- Chain 3 (counts as the first dc). Work 2 dc into the ring. Chain 2. This is your first 3-dc group and first corner space.
- Work (3 dc into the ring, ch 2) three more times.
- Join with a slip stitch into the top of the beginning ch-3. Slip stitch across the next two dc and into the first ch-2 corner space so the next round begins in a corner.
Round 1 check: 4 groups of 3 dc = 12 dc equivalents, 4 ch-2 corner spaces, and no ch-1 side gaps.
Round 2: Build Eight Groups
Begin in any ch-2 corner space. A corner is made by working (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) into that one space. At the start of the round, replace the first dc with ch 3.
- In the starting corner space, ch 3, work 2 dc, ch 2, then 3 dc into the same corner space. Chain 1.
- In the next ch-2 corner space, work (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc). Chain 1.
- Repeat the previous step in each of the remaining two corner spaces, chaining 1 after each corner.
- Join with a slip stitch into the top of the starting ch-3. Slip stitch across the next two dc and into the next ch-2 corner space.
Round 2 check: 8 groups = 24 dc equivalents, 4 ch-2 corners, and 4 ch-1 side gaps. There are two groups along each side between the corner turns.
Round 3: Add the Side Groups
Each side now has one ch-1 space between its two corner groups. In this round, work a single 3-dc group into each of those four side spaces.
- Starting in a ch-2 corner space, ch 3, work 2 dc, ch 2, then 3 dc in the same corner space. Chain 1.
- Work 3 dc into the next ch-1 side space. Chain 1.
- In the next ch-2 corner, work (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc). Chain 1.
- Repeat steps 2 and 3 around the next three sides and corners, but do not repeat the starting corner: work each of the remaining three side spaces and three corner spaces once.
- After the last side group, chain 1 and join with a slip stitch to the top of the initial ch-3. Fasten off.
Round 3 check: 12 groups = 36 dc equivalents, 4 ch-2 corners, and 8 ch-1 side gaps. The last side gap is the chain-1 made just before joining.
Stitch-Count Reference
| Round | 3-dc groups | DC equivalents | Corner ch-2 spaces | Side ch-1 spaces |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 4 | 12 | 4 | 0 |
| 2 | 8 | 24 | 4 | 4 |
| 3 | 12 | 36 | 4 | 8 |
How to Make a Larger Granny Square
Continue working into spaces, not into individual stitches: in each ch-2 corner work (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc), with ch 1 between groups; in every ch-1 side space work 3 dc, followed by ch 1. Every additional round adds four 3-dc groups. Thus round 4 has 16 groups (48 dc equivalents) and round 5 has 20 groups (60 dc equivalents). Stop when the square reaches your required size.
Finishing and Blocking
- Cut the yarn, pull the tail through the last loop and tighten gently.
- Thread the tail through a blunt needle and weave it under several stitches on the wrong side, changing direction to secure it without distorting the fabric.
- Lay the square flat and measure its width and height. Do not stretch it to force an exact size.
- If the yarn label allows, lightly dampen the square, shape the four corners into a square and leave it flat to dry completely. Avoid excessive heat, especially with acrylic yarn.
How to Join Granny Squares
For a simple beginner join, place two squares right sides together and whipstitch through matching edge stitches with a yarn needle. Match corners and side gaps as you go; avoid pulling the seam tight. For a crochet join, use slip stitches through corresponding edge loops. Make two identical squares first so their sides align.
Troubleshooting Common Granny-Square Problems
The square is becoming a circle
Check for four distinct ch-2 corner spaces in every round. The corner increase—two 3-dc groups separated by ch 2—must go into each corner space.
My edges ripple
Check that you have only one 3-dc group in each ch-1 side gap and two groups in each corner. Extra groups or loose tension can cause rippling.
The square curls inward
Your chains or dc stitches may be too tight. Try a slightly larger hook, relax your tension and check that each corner contains a ch-2 space.
I cannot find where the next round begins
After joining the previous round, slip stitch along the top of the first group until you reach a corner ch-2 space. Starting the next round there keeps the instructions consistent.
Optional Colour Variations
- One colour: Use the same yarn for all rounds for a simple learning sample.
- Three colours: Fasten off after each round, join the next colour in a corner space and begin with ch 3.
- Blanket squares: Make several squares to the same measured size, then join them using a consistent seam.
- Bag panels: Use firm cotton yarn and consider lining the finished bag; the square alone does not guarantee load-bearing strength.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many stitches are in a three-round granny square?
This version has 12 three-dc groups, or 36 dc equivalents, plus four ch-2 corner spaces and eight ch-1 side spaces in round 3.
Is a granny square suitable for absolute beginners?
It is a good next project after learning chain, double crochet and slip stitch. Practise those basics before attempting the corners.
Can I use cotton instead of acrylic yarn?
Yes. Smooth cotton often gives defined stitches, while acrylic can make a lighter, springier fabric. Match the hook to the yarn and make a sample to check size.
Why is my square not exactly 10 cm?
Hook size, yarn thickness, tension and blocking affect finished measurements. The suggested size is an estimate, not a guaranteed gauge.
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