Granny squares are the foundation of crochet. Once you master this small, satisfying motif, an entire world of blankets, bags, cardigans, and home decor opens up to you.
What You'll Need:
- 4mm crochet hook
- DK weight yarn in 3 colors (A, B, C)
- Scissors and yarn needle
Step 1 — Magic Ring
Start with a magic ring. This gives you a tight, clean center with no hole. Insert your hook, pull up a loop, and chain 3 (counts as your first double crochet).
Step 2 — Round 1
Work 2 double crochets into the ring, chain 2. Repeat (3 double crochets, chain 2) three more times. Slip stitch to the top of your starting chain 3 to close. Pull the magic ring tight. You now have 4 clusters with 4 corner spaces.
Step 3 — Round 2
Join color B in any corner space. Chain 3, work 2 double crochets, chain 2, 3 double crochets in the same space (your first corner). Chain 1, then work a full corner (3dc, ch2, 3dc) in each remaining corner space, with chain 1 between. Slip stitch to close.
Step 4 — Round 3
Join color C. Work corners as before and fill each side space with 3 double crochets separated by chain 1.
Finishing:
Weave in all ends with your yarn needle. Block lightly with a damp cloth for a perfectly flat square.
Once you've made one, you won't be able to stop. Most blankets use between 20 and 100 squares — the magic is in the making.
