Introduction
Granny squares are a time-honored favorite in the world of crochet, lending themselves to countless variations and color combinations. In this tutorial, we’ll explore how to create three classic and visually appealing two-color granny squares, each with its own unique twist. Each square in the set features a dynamic combination of turquoise and cream (or your chosen colors), striking geometric shapes, and rich textures. The stitch patterns range from the traditional, openwork look to denser, more modern styling. Whether you want to make a blanket, cushion cover, bag, or simply practice and connect motifs, these granny squares are a fantastic place to start.
The first square uses the classic granny shell clusters with a color change, the second introduces more open spaces and eye-catching contrast around the corners, while the third square offers a denser surface with rows of double crochets for a modern, bold effect. These granny squares are visually interesting and accessible, making them the perfect addition to your crochet repertoire. Plus, working these squares is enjoyable and satisfying, especially as you see each motif take shape with every round.
Project Overview
This project consists of three different crochet granny squares, each worked in the round from the center outwards. Each square is crocheted separately and can later be joined together for larger projects. Construction is straightforward: you’ll begin with a magic ring or chain loop foundation, then work successive rounds, changing colors between rounds for a striking effect. Each pattern uses double crochet (dc) as the primary stitch, with chains forming the open mesh and corners. All three squares are approximately the same finished size, making them easy to mix and match in a single project.
Skill Level
Advanced Beginner. These patterns use basic crochet stitches — chain, slip stitch, and double crochet — arranged in slightly different ways. You should be comfortable working in the round, changing colors, and recognizing simple stitch groups.
Materials
- Yarn: Worsted weight (Medium/4) acrylic, cotton, or blend yarn. Approximately 25g (about 50-55 yards/46-50 meters) total, split between two colors: Color A (Turquoise): 13g, Color B (Cream): 12g. Adjust according to the desired number of squares.
- Crochet hook: 5.0 mm (H/8) or size needed for preferred tension.
- Tapestry needle for weaving in ends and sewing squares together.
- Sharp scissors.
- Stitch markers (optional, to mark corners or the start of rounds).
- Measuring tape for finished size and gauge checks.
Finished Size
Each square measures approximately 12 cm x 12 cm (about 4.75 in x 4.75 in) when worked to the suggested gauge. You can easily adjust the size of the squares by adding or subtracting rounds, or by switching to a lighter or heavier yarn. For larger items like afghans or bags, simply join more squares together.
Gauge
Approximate gauge: 4 rounds (one square) should measure about 12 cm (4.75 in) across. After completing 4 rounds, check your work; small differences in personal tension and yarn may change the finished size, but gauge is not critical unless you’re making a fitted item like a wearable.
Stitches and Abbreviations
- ch – chain
- sl st – slip stitch
- dc – double crochet
- sc – single crochet
- MR – magic ring
- sp – space
Pattern Notes
- Chains at the beginning of rounds count as a stitch unless otherwise stated.
- Each square is worked in joined rounds. Each round is joined with a slip stitch to the first stitch or chain.
- For neat color changes, finish the last stitch of the round with the new color.
- Keep right side (RS) always facing unless otherwise noted.
- Stitch markers can be helpful to mark the corners, especially in the first few rounds.
- Weave in ends as you go for a neater finish.
Granny Square Patterns – Crochet Instructions
Square 1: Classic Two-Color Granny Square
Colors: Color A (Turquoise), Color B (Cream)
- Round 1 (Color A): Make a MR. Ch 3 (counts as dc), 2 dc into ring, *ch 2, 3 dc into ring; repeat from * 3 times, ch 2; join with sl st to top of initial ch-3. (Total: 4 clusters of 3 dc, 4 ch-2 corners)
- Round 2 (Color B): Sl st to next ch-2 corner sp, ch 3 (counts as dc), 2 dc in same sp, ch 2, 3 dc in same sp (first corner made). *In next ch-2 corner sp, 3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc; repeat from * 2 more times; join with sl st to top of starting ch-3. (Each side now has 2 clusters separated by corner ch, 4 corners)
- Round 3 (Color A): Sl st to next ch-2 corner sp, ch 3 (counts as dc), 2 dc in same sp, ch 2, 3 dc in same sp. *In each space between clusters on each side, 3 dc. In each ch-2 corner sp, (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc); repeat from * around. You should have 3 dc groups along each side between corners. Join with sl st to starting ch-3.
- Round 4 (Color B): Repeat as established: corners (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in each ch-2 corner sp, 3 dc in each sp between clusters along sides. Join with sl st to top of ch-3. (Each side will now have 5 3-dc clusters, separated by spaces.) Fasten off and weave in ends.
Square 2: Corner Contrast Granny Square
Colors: Color A (Turquoise), Color B (Cream)
- Round 1 (Color A): MR, ch 3 (counts as dc), 2 dc, ch 2. *3 dc, ch 2; repeat from * 2 times. Join with sl st to top of ch-3. (4 clusters, 4 corners)
- Round 2 (Color B): Sl st into ch-2 corner, ch 3, 2 dc, ch 2, 3 dc (first corner), ch 1, *(3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in next ch-2 corner, ch 1; repeat from * around. Join with sl st to top of beginning ch-3. (Now each side has a ch-1 space between corners)
- Round 3 (Color A): Sl st into ch-2 corner, ch 3, 2 dc, ch 2, 3 dc (first corner), ch 1, 3 dc in next ch-1 sp, ch 1, *(3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in next corner, ch 1, 3 dc in next ch-1 sp, ch 1; repeat from * around. Join with sl st to beginning ch-3. (Each side has two 3-dc clusters between corners)
- Round 4 (Color B): Repeat previous round’s setup: corners (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in each ch-2 sp, 3 dc in each ch-1 sp along each side, separating each group with ch 1. Join with sl st, fasten off, weave in ends. (Each side now has three 3-dc clusters, with ch-1 spaces between them for an airy mesh.)
Square 3: Solid Stripe Granny Square
Colors: Color A (Turquoise), Color B (Cream)
- Round 1 (Color A): Ch 4, sl st to form a ring (or MR). Ch 3 (counts as dc), 2 dc, ch 2. *3 dc, ch 2; repeat from * 2 more times into ring. Join with sl st to top of starting ch-3. (12 dc, 4 corner ch-2 sps)
- Round 2 (Color A): Sl st to next ch-2 corner. Ch 3, (1 dc, ch 2, 2 dc) in same corner. Dc in each st along side to next corner, *(2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc) in corner, dc in each st along side; repeat from * for remaining sides. Join. (Each side has 6 dc, corners worked as established)
- Round 3 (Color B): Sl st to corner, ch 3, (1 dc, ch 2, 2 dc) in corner. Dc in each st along side to next corner (work into dc, not spaces), *(2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc) in corner, dc in each st along side; repeat from * for other sides. Join. (Each side now has 10 dc, corners unchanged)
- Round 4 (Color A): Repeat as established: (2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc) in corner, dc in each st along side. Join, fasten off, weave in ends. (14 dc per side, corners continue as above)
Assembly and Finishing
Once you’ve completed your squares and woven in all ends, gently block each square to ensure consistent size and smooth edges. To block, pin each square to shape on a flat, covered surface, spritz with water or steam lightly and allow to dry fully. If you wish to join multiple squares for a larger project (blanket, bag, cushion), use the whip stitch, mattress stitch, or single crochet join; align the squares RS together or side-by-side for joining, inserting needle or hook into the outer loops of stitches. Weaving in all ends securely and trimming excess yarn will produce a polished, durable finish. Handle gently during assembly to maintain evenness.
Customization Ideas
- Color Play: Use more than two colors for a vibrant patchwork effect, or go monochrome for minimalist projects.
- Yarn Weight: Substitute lighter yarn and a smaller hook for delicate coasters, or chunky yarn for larger, bolder squares.
- Edging: Add a picot or scalloped border for extra flair.
- Alternative Uses: Sew or crochet squares together for bags, scarves, wall hangings, baby blankets, or tote accents.
Troubleshooting
- Curling: Curling often results from tight tension or skipped stitches. Relax your grip, check your stitch count, and block finished squares.
- Uneven Edges: Uneven edges can occur if ch-1 spaces or corners are missed. Mark corners with a stitch marker and count groups after each round.
- Incorrect Size: If your square is too large or small, check your hook size and tension. Use a smaller hook for smaller squares or switch yarn for larger ones.
- Loose Color Changes: Make color changes by completing the last stitch of a round with the new color and secure the beginning tail under the first few stitches of the next round.
- Uneven Tension: Practice steady hand movements and consistent yarn feed for uniform stitches. Blocking helps even out minor inconsistencies.
Care Instructions
Machine wash your acrylic or cotton granny squares gently in cold or lukewarm water using a mild detergent. Lay flat to dry on a clean towel, reshaping as necessary to desired measurements. Avoid bleaching or aggressive wringing. If made with natural fibers, check manufacturer recommendations for care.
Final Notes
Regularly check your stitch count, especially at round ends and corners, to ensure consistent square shapes. Adjust personal tension and hook size as needed; each crocheter’s work is unique. Use the provided step-by-step instructions as a guide, but let the photo serve as inspiration for color and layout as you master these classic granny techniques. Enjoy the creative journey!
