How to Join Granny Squares: 4 Methods Compared

The four methods

1. Whipstitch (flat and invisible)

1. Step 1: Place two squares right sides together, edges matching.
2. Step 2: With a tapestry needle, sew through the back loops of both edges, stitch by stitch, always going in from the same side.
3. Step 3: Open the squares flat. The seam is nearly invisible from the front.

Best for: blankets where you want the squares to read as one fabric. Slow, but flat and neat.

2. Slip stitch seam (fast and flat)

1. Step 1: Hold the squares right sides together.
2. Step 2: With a hook, sl st through both back loops of each pair of stitches along the edge.

Best for: quick, firm seams. Keep the tension loose so the seam doesn't pucker.

3. Single crochet seam (raised ridge)

1. Step 1: Hold the squares wrong sides together so the seam faces out.
2. Step 2: Sc through both loops of both squares along the edge, working 1 sc into each corner chain.

Best for: a bold, decorative grid — especially in black or a contrast colour. Sturdy enough for bags like our granny tote.

4. Join-as-you-go (no seaming at all)

1. Step 1: Make the first square completely.
2. Step 2: On the last round of the next square, when you reach a corner that touches the first square, work (3 dc, ch 1), sl st into the first square's corner space, ch 1, 3 dc.
3. Step 3: Along the shared side, replace each ch 1 between clusters with a sl st into the matching space on the finished square.
4. Step 4: Repeat for each new square, joining to one or two neighbours.

Best for: people who hate seaming — when the last square is done, the blanket is done. Gives a lacy, open join.

Which method should you choose?

Finishing a granny blanket

After joining, work a border: 2–3 rounds of sc or dc all the way around, with 3 stitches in each corner. Then weave in ends — our guide to weaving in ends keeps them from popping out.

Common questions

What is the easiest way to join granny squares?

The slip stitch or single crochet seam — both are quick and use only your hook.

Should I join granny squares with the same yarn?

Use the yarn of the last round for an invisible seam, or a contrast colour for a bold, framed look.

Should I block squares before joining?

Yes. Blocking evens out size differences, sharpens corners and makes joining much easier.

Which joining method is your favourite? 🧩