Free Granny Squares + Granny Square Crochet Projects!
Granny squares are back!
If those words make you picture your grandma’s brown and orange afghan, stick with me. Today’s squares look nothing like that. You’ll find flowers, sunbursts, seashells and 3D texture in this collection of free crochet granny square patterns, and not one of them is drab.
I think you’ll want to bookmark this post! You get more than 40 squares to pick from, sorted into traditional and unique. But you also won’t have to search for what’s next… what to make with granny squares once you’ve got a pile of them, how to join granny squares so they lie flat, and how to choose a first square that won’t put you off embracing these colorful scrapbusters.
August 15th is Granny Square Day in the online world!
Don’t let the name fool you – granny squares are anything but old-fashioned! These versatile little squares are the building blocks for a stunning array of modern crochet projects. With a few simple stitches, you can create everything from cozy blankets and adorable toys to stylish bags, wearables and trendy home decor accents. The beauty of granny squares lies in their adaptability. Play with color palettes, and experiment with different textures to put your own unique spin on this timeless technique.
You ready? Then together, let’s get ready to redefine the granny square!
Happy Hooking! 💜
PS: If you’re a member of my facebook group then I invite you to stop by and share a photo of the item you’ve handcrafted from this pattern collection! And if you’re not yet a member, then click the link to pop over now! You’ll discover VIP access to free patterns and discounts, and the ability to share within a supportive and like-minded community.
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How to Pick Your First Granny Square
Did you know? Not all granny squares are created equal, and picking the wrong one first might put you off them for good.
An easy square usually has three things going for it. It works in rounds you can count without losing your place. It sticks to stitches you already know, like double crochet and chain spaces. And it doesn’t ask you to change colors every other round.
If this is your first one, start here (scroll down to find the patterns below):
- Daisy Granny Square, beginner friendly and made for scrap yarn
- Easy Neutral Square, all half double crochet and about as simple as it gets
- Hashtag Granny Square, a classic build with a modern look
- Diamond Granny Square, comes with a video, which helps a lot the first time
Any of those gives you a finished square in an evening. That matters more than you’d think. Finishing something is what makes you want to start the next one.
Now for the ones to save until you’ve got a few under your belt. Lotus Flower and Concha Cluster are beautiful, but both work in raised layers that take some patience. Juneberry is marked intermediate. The Mosaic square uses overlay mosaic crochet, which is a whole technique on its own. And the Unusual square stacks cables and puffs on top of the basic build.
None of these are out of reach, y’all. They’re just not where you want to start on a Tuesday night when you’re already tired.
One last Pro Tip! Make two of your first square before moving on. The second one always comes out neater, and you’ll spot your own tension habits without anyone having to point them out.
Find all of my FREE Crochet Patterns in one place!
Unique Granny Square Crochet Patterns
Granny Square designs used to have a traditional look, with clusters, spaces and rounds, with almost the only variation being size or color. But that’s not how we roll today!
There are now many, many granny square variations out there, which allows us to interpret the GS in our own different ways. Such as employing different techniques, creating different shapes, changing up yarn weights – and even new stitches!
Sól Sunburst Granny Square by Green Fox Farms Designs
This one starts as a circle and ends as a square, with a textured sunburst center that shifts depending on the colors you pick. It finishes at 8 inches, so it lines up with the other 8 inch squares in this roundup. The flat edges join together easily. Worsted weight, advanced beginner to intermediate, so it’s a good next step once you’ve got a few basic squares behind you.
Find the Sól sunburst granny square pattern here!
Sweet Flora Granny Square by Green Fox Farms Designs
The beautiful Sweet Flora Afghan Square gives the feel of a sampler pattern, without having to master a whole bunch of different stitches. This square is beautiful on its own, and if you wanted to work it up in a thicker yarn, it would make a lovely pillow cover or even to hang on your wall, or decorate a tabletop. You could make 3-4 of them and sew them in a square or in a row to make a lovely spring runner too!
Find the free Sweet Flora afghan square pattern here!
Unusual Crochet Granny Square by Made by Gootie
A fun twist of the traditional granny square. With the addition of cables and some puffs, this free pattern creates a beautiful geometric design, based on the granny square!
Find the unusual granny square crochet pattern here!
Lotus Flower Granny Square by Thoresby Cottage
A beautiful, 3D granny square that’s incorporated a number of crochet techniques, to give an eye-catching effect. Experiment with complimentary and contrasting colors, for different looks.
Find the lotus flower granny square pattern here!
Lemon Granny Square Pattern by Raffamusa Designs
Learn how to make this adorable, fruity granny square, which is part of a collection of tutti frutti patterns! This happy pattern is perfect for adding a touch of sunshine to your blankets, cushions, and more.
Find the free lemon granny square pattern here!
Crochet Lollipop Granny Square by Raffamusa Designs
Add a sweet treat to your granny square, by including a spiral lollipop to the mix! Great for blankets, pillowcases and sweaters, this fun GS square pattern, demonstrates just how colorful and creative you can be!
Find the lollipop granny square crochet pattern here!
Sand Dollar Crochet Square Pattern by Thoresby Cottage
Named for the delicate shell of a burrowing sea urchin, this beautiful granny square pattern captures memories of the ocean, well. Especially, when you choose natural yarn colors that you mind find at the seaside.
Find the sand dollar crochet square pattern here!
Crochet Sunflower Sunburst Granny Square by Hooked By Robin
Follow the video tutorial and clearly written pattern, to make your own series of Summer Lovin’ Sunburst Sunflowers. This stash buster pattern is free, and suitable for beginners.
Find the sunflower sunburst granny square pattern here!
Concha Cluster Crochet Square by Make It Crochet
Learn a new bobble stitch technique, to create this vintage-look, feminine crochet square. This free pattern produced a 10″ square, that would make a stunning heirloom blanket as a bedspread or wedding gift.
Find the concha cluster crochet square pattern here!
Juneberry Crochet Granny Square by Creations By Courtney
Make a pretty, 8″ square, using a twist on the half double cluster stitch. This intermediate level pattern includes a photo and video tutorial, along with the written pattern, to help you acheive this subtley textured square.
Find the Juneberry crochet granny square pattern here!
Traditional Crochet Granny Square Patterns
Although I’m a big fan of the unique look of modern granny squares, I’m also a retro fan-girl – and I know you might be too! So, here are a range of more traditional granny squares. Beginner crocheters will enljoy starting here, with more basic crochet granny square patterns.
Four Sections Granny Square Pattern by Raffamusa Designs
Try a variation of the half and half granny square – by changing colors each quarter instead! The result is a creative, colorful block that can be used as part of any granny square project.
Find the four sections granny square pattern here!
How to Crochet a Daisy Granny Square by Raffamusa Designs
Bring some retro 60s into your next crochet project, with a fun daisy flower granny square. This is a beginner-friendly pattern, that can be made with scrap yarn.
Find the daisy granny square crochet pattern here!
Continuous Granny Square Blanket by Jo To The World
This is an easy blanket pattern that won’t take long, if you’re looking for a beginner blanket to gift for a baby shower. The video tutorial will help to guide absolute beginners. This free pattern would make a great, beginner project.
Find the continuous granny square blanket pattern here!
Hashtag Granny Square Crochet Pattern by Thoresby Cottage
The traditional granny square is a fun beginner project that takes shape fast and can be used to make many items. This cute pattern is a modern take on the regular granny square design.
Find the hashtag granny square crochet pattern here!
Easy Neutral Square Pattern by A Box Of Twine
Crochet a granny square using half double crochet stitches (hdc). This simple square is beginner friendly and can be utilized in small projects like a mug rug, or larger projects like a table runner, or blanket.
Find the easy neutral crochet square pattern here!
Diamond Granny Square by Raffamusa Designs
follow the step-by-step process to make your own, seriously cute diamond granny squares. There’s a video tutorial too, making this free crochet pattern, even more accessible for beginner crocheters.
Find the diamond granny square crochet pattern here!
Which Granny Squares Work Together?
Here’s the trap. You fall in love with four different squares, make a stack of each, then sit down to join them and nothing lines up.
It happens to everyone. Designers write their patterns to different round counts, different stitch heights, and different yarn weights. Two squares can both be called an 8 inch square and still come out an inch apart in your hands.
The good news is that you can fix almost any mismatch. Pick your target size first, then bend the squares to fit it.
Start by making one of each
Before you commit to a whole blanket, make a single square from each pattern you like. Lay them side by side and measure. This takes an evening and saves you weeks.
Then close the gap
There are three ways to bring a small square up to size:
- Add a round of double crochet in the same color, which usually adds about half an inch to an inch
- Go up a hook size and make it again, which adds size without changing the look
- Add a border round in a color that ties your whole set together
And two ways to bring a big square down:
- Leave off the final round
- Drop a hook size
The border trick
This is what makes a mixed set look like it was planned. Give every square the same one or two border rounds in the same color. It evens out the sizes and pulls the whole thing together at once. A cream or charcoal border does a lot of heavy lifting on a scrappy set.
Squares that already tell you their size
A few of the patterns above state their finished measurement, which makes planning easier:
- Lotus Flower Square, about 6 inches
- Juneberry Square, 8 inches
- Sól Sunburst Square, 8 inches
- Sweet Flora Square, 10 inches
- Concha Cluster Square, 10 inches
- Kisses Square, 12 inches
The 8 inch pair works together straight off the hook. The 10 and 12 inch squares suit bigger projects, or you can pair the 10 with an 8 plus a border round.
One rule to save yourself grief
Use the same yarn weight across the whole project. Mixing worsted with DK causes more sizing headaches than any pattern difference will. Same weight, same hook, and you’re halfway there.
Grab These Granny Square Lover Items!
What to Make With Granny Squares!
Beautiful Blanket Patterns, Using Crochet Granny Squares
Ah, crocheted granny square blankets! Did we all grow up with them around the house? Surely that wasn’t just me? And now, we’re so excited when we find them in thrift stores! Well, here are some free and easy patterns to make your own! And I’ve got intermediate crocheters covered too (pun intented). Keep reading 🙂
Trinity Jewels Lightweight Crochet Afghan Pattern by Make It Crochet
Here’s something really different! The placement is unique because it’s worked in a C2C color direction. The squares are only 4.5″, making them a perfect takealong project.
Find the Trinity Jewels crochet afghan pattern here!
In The Mood Granny Square Blanket by Cosy Rosie UK
Similar to a temperature blanket, this granny square blanket design – tracks your moods! This beginner friendly crochet pattern is personalized to the maker. With 4 squares and 7 stitches, every crocheter will create a unique blanket.
Find the mood granny square blanket pattern here!
Hodgepodge Granny Square Blanket by Cosy Rosie UK
Each of the 30 different squares that make up this large blanket, have their own free video tutorial! Each square will teach you a different crochet technique, including filet crochet, working in the round and color changes.
Find the beginner granny square blanket pattern here!
Black and White Striped Squares Blanket by Jo To The World
Striking and modern, you’ll love this bold design that’s made from only two colors of yarn. The size is easily adjustable and the free blanket pattern includes detailed instructions.
Find the striped squares blanket crochet pattern here!
Easy Granny Square Gift Ideas
So you’ve found a beautiful square that you want to make, and now you want to show it off? Or. You’ve become addicted to making granny squares, and want to do something special with them? Then my personal favorite solution is to get gifting! And these cute patterns are the answer.
Granny Festival Pouch by Green Fox Farms Designs
This cute and functional hip pouch patterns is easy for beginners and is made using worsted weight yarn. Be hands free while out and about, with your phone, keys and cards are safely stored at arms reach.
Find the free Granny Festival Pouch crochet pattern here!
Patchwork Crochet Bandana Head Scarf by Annie Design Crochet
Create classic granny squares from the patterns above, for a unique, patchwork bandana that’s both boho and vintage-inspired.
Find the patchwork crochet bandana pattern here!
Mosaic Granny Lattice Bookmark by Juniper and Oakes
Make 3 tiny granny squares, sewed together to make this bookmark! Remember this free pattern, because it makes a great gift for teachers, dads, and stocking stuffers.
Find the granny lattice bookmark crochet pattern here!
Granny Square Book Sleeve by Stitch by Fay
Wrap your favorite read in a granny square! This sleeve works up as one continuous square, then gets seamed into a pouch and finished with a beaded tie. It fits any size book and takes any yarn weight, so a chunky paperback or a slim e-reader both work. Pair it with a novel and you’ve got a gift any bookworm will use.
Find the granny square book sleeve pattern here!
Stash Buster Cup Cosy by The Crochet Fix
A super quick pattern, ideal for using up random yarn scraps and a practical make. They come in really handy for keep cup takeaway coffees. There’s a link included to a video, showing how to JAYG for quickest construction.
Find the stash buster cup cosy crochet pattern here!
Cute Crochet Bags from Granny Squares
If you’ve been here before, you most likely know how much I absolutely love crochet bags and baskets! I’ve made sure to include some great crochet projects for bags here, which involve unique design and different stitches. Make sure to comment below with whichever granny square bag pattern you decide to make! Because I’d love to know!
Calliope Crossbody Boho Bag by Green Fox Farms Designs
This super popular crochet bag pattern has a boho feel and incorporates grannsy squares in a novel way. It’s large enough to hold a full project, or makes a unique school bag!
Find the free Calliope Crossbody Boho Bag crochet pattern here!
Granny Heart Market Bag by Raffamusa Designs
Making your own market totes is the greenest option – and you’ll never get your bags mixed up with others at the checkout. This easy bag pattern uses 4 squares joined together.
Find the granny heart market bag crochet pattern here!
Flower Granny Square Bag by Jo To The World
This step-by-step tutorial shows you how to easily create your own crochet flower bag, made with cute flower granny squares. Classic in design, yet modern in style, this will also make a well-loved gift.
Find the flower granny square bag crochet pattern here!
Beginner Motif Market Tote Bag by A Crocheted Simplicity
This free crochet bag pattern makes a styllish tote that you’ll want to use all of the time – not just at the markets. with it’s combination of visual interest and simplicity, this is a pattern you’ll return to often.
Find the motif market tote crochet bag pattern here!
Running Rings Granny Square Handbag by Cozy Rosie UK
Crochet bags are always trendy and perfectly compliment a French Girl look! Mix and match your favorite colors, to craft a fancy, crochet bag that will match your wardrobe.
Find the granny square handbag crochet pattern here!
Colorful Squares Bag by Jo To The World
This easy to make crochet bag would look equally as alluring with bright colors as with neutrals. The top opens wide, allowing ease of access, but the handle placement makes sure it remains closed when carried.
Find the colorful squares crochet bag pattern here!
Granny Square Lovey Patterns for Baby Gifts
With granny squares looking so wonderful in bright colors, they make a perfect match with children’s toys.
Bjorn the Granny Square Bear Lovey by Green Fox Farms Designs
Craft a teddy bear amigurumi joined with granny square blanket to get a Bjorn Lovey! Kids will love this comforter that you’ve created especially for them.
Find the free Bjorn granny square bear lovey pattern here!
Bijoux Butterfly Amigurumi by Green Fox Farms Designs
What do you get when you pair granny square wings with an easy caterpillar amigurumi? This large butterfly security blanket and educational toy! Kids will love cuddling this soft plush, almost as much as you’ll love making it.
Find the Bijoux butterfly amigurumi pattern here!
Giraffe Lovey Pattern by Cuddly Stitches Craft
A giraffe lovey is the perfect choice for a new baby with a safari themed nursery. Although, even if there’s no theme, giraffes are yellow which makes for a bright and happy gift idea.
Find the giraffe lovey crochet pattern here!
Crochet Granny Squares for Home Decor
Using granny square patterns in your home can be perfect, no matter your style. Subtle and Understated? Stick to muted colors. Retro or Vintage? Match yarn colors to the era you love! Eclectic? Absolutely!
Running Rings Around Granny Wall Hanging by Cosy Rosie UK
Making wall art couldn’t be simpler, than with this quick crochet pattern. Easily introduce some retro style to your home with this vintage look crochet pattern. Use chunky yarn from your stash, or
Find the granny circle wall hanging crochet pattern here!
Running Rings Around Granny Square Cushion by Cosy Rosie UK
Brighten any room with this colorful rochet cushion that’s easy to make! This free pattern comes with a series of free video tutorials. Start with just one as an accent, and continue – to furnish every room in the house!
Find the granny square cushion crochet pattern here!
Simple Granny Square Wall Hanging by Juniper & Oakes
Learn crochet the easy way and make something to show for it! This wallhanging is made from a granny square and tassels. A simple crochet project that makes a statement and can turn your hobby into art.
Find the simple granny square wall hanging pattern here!
Tutorials to Join Granny Squares
Now that you’ve completed your granny square projects, what now? There’s almost as many ways to join your squares as there are styles of Granny Square. But the best way is often the easiest. No need to overcomplicate things. So here are some simple ways to join your squares, to make sure they remain the star of the show.
How To Whip Stitch Crochet Pieces Together by Made By Gootie
Whether you want to join crochet squares, or other crochet pieces, you can use this simple joining method for a visible join.
Find the whip stitch crochet tutorial here!
How to Join Granny Squares Together with Invisible Seam by Made By Gootie
This easy invisible crochet seam is perfect for granny square join, and any crochet project that requires joining parts together.
Find the invisible seam granny square tutorial here!
A Unique Way to Join Granny Squares Together by Cosy Rosie UK
The zigzag crochet join is a pretty and unique way to join granny squares together with a flat, zig zag seam.
Find the zigzag granny square join tutorial here!
How to Join Granny Squares with the Flat Slip Stitch Join by Raffamusa Designs
The zipper join consists of slip stitches, with the squares all lined alongside one another.
Find the flat slip stitch join tutorial here!
3 EASY Ways to Crochet Squares Together! by Hooked By Robin
There’s no need to sew with these three ways to crochet your squares together. They’re easy, fast and each include a full step by step video tutorial.
Find the 3 ways to join granny squares tutorial here!
Join-As-You-Go Flat Braid Join by Knitter Knotter
This is a loose, lacy join that’s made using only basic crochet stitches, for an appealing effect.
Find the join-as-you-go flat braid tutorial here!
Faux Braid Join by Crochet 365 Knit Too
This stitch does all the right things, it’s quick, easy and looks great!
Find the faux braid join tutorial here!
Crochet Patterns Using the Granny Stitch
And there’s more! The granny stitch – or granny stripe stitch – can be used to make all kinds of crochet items! You don’t need to stick to crocheted granny squares. And once you see the following gorgeous patterns, you’ll be hooked! (yes, again, pun intented 😜)
Zig Zag Granny Stitch Blanket by Jo To The World
Made with a simple one-row repeat and featuring a modern chevron twist on the classic granny stitch, this blanket is a delight for beginners. Learn how to create this beautiful project with our step-by-step written pattern and video tutorial!
Find the zig zag granny stitch blanket pattern here!
Classic Granny Stitch Dress by Briana K Designs
This is the dress that everyone’s been talking about! A classic design, worn my a modern icon (Taylor Swift) – that you can crochet, no matter your skill level!
Find the classic granny stitch dress pattern here!
Bottom Up Granny Stripe Stitch Shawl by Hooked By Robin
Made with simple back-and-forth rows, this free pattern is a beginner-friendly project that works up in a flash, perfect for keeping you warm on chilly days. Follow the free video tutorial and written pattern to make your own.
Find the granny stripe shawl crochet pattern here!
Hexi Crochet Poncho Pattern by Creations By Courtney
Made with just 3 colors seamlessly blended, this beginner-friendly pattern creates a stunning, modern poncho perfect for breezy spring days. Learn how to crochet a hexagon poncho and discover the magic of the simple granny stitch!
Find the hexi crochet poncho pattern here!
Crochet Granny Ripple Baby Blanket by Annie Design Crochet
This adorable granny ripple baby blanket pattern is the perfect project for beginners! It combines timeless charm with a stunning texture, making it a breeze to create for any nursery. Whip up this cheerful blanket in just 4 vibrant colors to welcome a special little one!
Find the granny ripple baby blanket pattern here!
Granny Ripple Shawl Pattern by Cozy Rosie UK
This free granny ripple crochet pattern creates a beautiful wrap with perfectly balanced peaks and troughs, ideal for adding tassels for extra flair! The amended stitch pattern ensures a symmetrical design, perfect for beginners and seasoned crocheters alike.
Find the granny ripple shawl crochet pattern here!
These are just a few
Remember, scrap yarn doesn’t have to go to waste! With a little creativity, you can turn it into beautiful and practical granny square projects, that you’ll love – and you’ll love to gift!
And I’m guessing that you love free patterns? Check out my blog post full of all of my FREE Crochet Patterns!
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Thanks so much for reading! I would love to know which of these patterns you’re going to make first! Let me know in the comments! If you enjoyed this post and you want to help me to continue to offer Free Crochet Patterns (<– find them here), please share my Blog Post with your crafty friends and subscribe to my VIP List! You can easily share using the social media buttons below the post! Thank you so much for your support! If you have any questions, feel free to contact me or leave a comment on the blog. Please share your finished creations on Ravelry too!
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Want a better way to keep track of your works in progress? Download a FREE copy of my Printable WIP Cards and never forget which hook, or yarn, or pattern you were using again!
Granny squares ROCK! Thank you for an amazing article with amazing projects!