Granny Square for Beginners: Classic and Solid Squares, Step by Step

Before you start

• A cluster = 3 dc worked into the same space.
• A corner = (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) all in one corner space.
• The ch 3 at the start of a round counts as the first dc.
• You work into the spaces between clusters, never into the tops of stitches (in the classic square).

The classic granny square

1. Rnd 1: Ch 4, sl st to the first ch to form a ring. Ch 3, 2 dc in the ring, ch 2, *3 dc in the ring, ch 2*; repeat twice. Sl st to the top of the ch 3. (4 clusters)
2. Rnd 2: Sl st in the next 2 dc and into the ch-2 corner. Ch 3, (2 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in the same corner. *Ch 1, (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in the next corner*; repeat twice. Ch 1, sl st to the top of the ch 3. (8 clusters)
3. Rnd 3: Sl st to the corner. Ch 3, (2 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in the corner. *Ch 1, 3 dc in the ch-1 side space, ch 1, (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in the next corner*; repeat twice. Ch 1, 3 dc in the last side space, ch 1, sl st to join. (12 clusters)
4. Rnd 4 onward: Same as Rnd 3, working a cluster into every side space and a corner into every corner. Each round adds one cluster per side. (16, 20, 24…)

The ch 1 between clusters is optional — many crocheters skip it for a tighter square, as in our Halloween granny square. Pick one method and use it for every square in a project.

The solid granny square

The solid square has no holes, so it's warmer and looks smoother.

1. Rnd 1: As the classic square. (12 dc)
2. Rnd 2: Sl st to the corner. Ch 3, (2 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in the corner. *Dc in each of the next 3 dc, (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in the next corner*; repeat twice, dc in the last 3 dc. Join. (36 dc)
3. Rnd 3 onward: In each corner work (2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc) and dc in every stitch along the sides. Each round adds 4 dc per side. (52, 68…)

Fixing common granny square problems

• Twisting: turn your square over and work the next round from the other side, or block the finished squares.
• Wavy edges: too many stitches or chains in the side spaces — skip the ch 1s.
• Rounded corners: make sure you work ch 2 (not ch 1) at the corners and pull the corners firmly when blocking.
• Squares different sizes: crochet them all in one sitting or week, with the same hook. Tension drifts.

What to make next

• Join squares: our guide to joining granny squares.
• A granny square tote (12 squares).
• The granny square cardigan.
• A blanket — plan it with our blanket size chart.

Common questions

How do you start a granny square?

Ch 4 and join into a ring (or use a magic ring), then ch 3 and work 2 dc into the ring, followed by three more clusters of 3 dc separated by ch 2.

How many rounds should a granny square have?

Most blanket squares are 4–6 rounds (about 4–6 in with worsted yarn). A "giant granny" blanket is just one square worked until it's big enough.

How much yarn does one granny square use?

About 25 yd of worsted for a 5-round square — roughly 15 squares per 100 g ball of acrylic.

How many squares have you made? Everyone starts with one. 🟪🟧🟩