How to Crochet a Granny Square
Granny squares are one of the most iconic and versatile crochet motifs. They’re fun, beginner-friendly, and can be used to make just about anything blankets, bags, clothing, coasters, and more. You can crochet lots of small granny squares and sew them together, or keep going round and round to make one giant granny square blanket…the choice is yours!
In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to crochet a classic granny square starting with a magic ring, which gives your centre a neat and polished finish.
Why Start With a Magic Ring?
A magic ring (or magic circle) lets you adjust the centre of your granny square so the hole closes completely. This gives your work a tidy, professional look—much nicer than a big open centre!
What You’ll Need
- 8-ply/DK yarn (or your chosen yarn)
- Crochet hook to suit your yarn
- Scissors
- Yarn needle, for sewing in ends.
Stitches Used
- MR – Magic Ring
- CH – Chain
- DC – Double Crochet (UK terms)
- SL ST – Slip Stitch
💡 Note: This tutorial uses UK terms.
(If you prefer US terms, a UK DC = US SC and UK TR = US DC.)
How to Crochet a Classic Granny Square
Round 1 – Start the Magic Ring
- Make a magic ring and secure it with a chain.
- CH 3 (this counts as your first DC).
- Work 2 DC into the magic ring – this creates your first cluster.
- CH 2 – this forms the corner.
- Repeat:
-
- 3 DC into the ring, CH 2
- Do this 3 more times until you have 4 clusters total.
- Pull the tail to close the ring tightly.
- SL ST into the top of the starting CH 3 to finish the round.
You now have the centre of your granny square!
Round 2 – Build the Corners
Every corner will always be the same:
3 DC, CH 2, 3 DC
- CH 3
- Into the same space, work 3 DC, CH 2, 3 DC.
- In the next CH-2 space: work 3 DC, CH 2, 3 DC.
- Repeat in the remaining two corners.
- Join with a SL ST to the top of your CH 3.
Your square is coming together!
Round 3 and Beyond – Growing Your Square
From here, every round follows the same rhythm:
In each corner space:
➡️ 3 DC, CH 2, 3 DC
In each side space:
➡️ 3 DC
There are no CH spaces between side clusters in this classic version.
Continue this pattern round after round.
Your square will naturally expand and lie flat.
Two Ways to Use Granny Squares
1. Make Lots of Small Squares
One of the best things about granny squares is how modular they are.
You can:
- Mix and match colours
- Use up scrap yarn
- Create a patchwork aesthetic
- Arrange them in any order
- Sew or crochet them together
This method makes it easy to create blankets, pillows, bags, clothing panels, or even table runners.
2. Make One Big Granny Square Blanket
Want something quick and seamless?
Just keep adding rounds!
A single large granny square makes a beautiful blanket with no joining required.
You can change colours each round for a rainbow effect or keep it simple with a single shade.
Perfect for:
- Baby blankets
- Lap throws
- Meditation rugs
- Decorative sofa throws
💡 Tips for Perfect Granny Squares
- Keep your tension even for smoother edges.
- Change colours at the end of each round for neat transitions.
- Block your squares if making multiples this makes joining much easier.
- Weave in ends as you go to avoid a big pile later!
Final Thoughts
Granny squares are timeless, forgiving, and endlessly customisable. Whether you create a stack of colourful squares to join together or work one giant square for a cozy blanket, the process is relaxing and rewarding.