Crochet granny squares are timeless and endlessly versatile. They form the foundation for countless crochet projects — from blankets and scarves to bags and home décor. Learning to crochet different types of granny squares helps you understand shaping, texture, color combinations, and stitch consistency, all while building your creative confidence.
Below are three beginner-friendly granny square patterns that will help you practice essential techniques and make beautiful, functional crochet pieces.
Pattern 1: Classic Granny Square
The classic granny square is where every crocheter begins. It is built from the center outward using clusters of double crochet stitches separated by chain spaces, creating the familiar open and lacy design that is both simple and satisfying to make.
Skill Level:
Beginner
Finished Size:
Approximately 5 inches × 5 inches (size can be adjusted by adding or removing rounds)
Materials:
Copy and use these directly:
- Worsted weight yarn (#4) in three colors (Color A, Color B, Color C)
- Crochet hook size 4.0 millimeters (G)
- Yarn needle
- Scissors
Notes Before Starting:
This square is worked in joined rounds, beginning from a small center ring and expanding outward. Each round changes colors to help you practice fastening off and joining new yarns neatly. Always join rounds with a slip stitch into the top of the starting chain three.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Start the Center Ring:
Make a slip knot and chain four.
Insert the hook into the first chain, yarn over, and pull through both loops to form a small ring. - Round 1 – Center Cluster:
Chain three (this counts as your first double crochet stitch).
Work two more double crochet stitches into the ring.
Chain two to form the corner.
Work three double crochet stitches, then chain two again.
Repeat this process two more times until you have four groups of three double crochet stitches separated by chain two spaces.
Slip stitch into the top of the starting chain three to close the round.
Fasten off Color A. - Round 2 – Building the Corners:
Attach Color B in any corner space (the chain two space).
Chain three (counts as one double crochet).
In the same space, work two more double crochet stitches, chain two, and then work three more double crochet stitches — this forms one corner group.
Chain one.
In the next corner space, repeat: three double crochet stitches, chain two, three double crochet stitches.
Continue this pattern all the way around, working chain one between corners.
When you reach the end, slip stitch into the top of the starting chain three.
Fasten off. - Round 3 – Expanding the Square:
Attach Color C in any chain one space.
Chain three, then work two double crochet stitches into the same space.
Chain one, and in the next corner space, work three double crochet stitches, chain two, three double crochet stitches.
Continue working three double crochet stitches in each chain one space and corner clusters in each chain two space.
Join with a slip stitch to the top of the chain three and fasten off. - Round 4 and Beyond – Continue as Desired:
Each new round increases the number of chain one spaces on each side. Continue alternating colors every round if you wish.
Remember: corners always have three double crochet stitches, chain two, three double crochet stitches. Sides always have one chain space between clusters.
Finishing and Variations:
- Weave in all yarn tails using a yarn needle.
- To create a modern look, use a single solid color instead of multiple colors.
- To make larger squares, simply add more rounds using the same pattern sequence.
- Lightly block your finished square to even out the edges.
Pattern 2: Solid Granny Square
The solid granny square is an excellent follow-up to the classic version. It uses the same construction idea but eliminates the gaps, creating a dense, warm fabric perfect for cozy blankets or pillow covers.
Skill Level:
Beginner
Finished Size:
Approximately 5 inches × 5 inches (can be adjusted by adding more rounds)
Materials:
Copy and use these directly:
- Worsted weight yarn (#4) in one or more colors
- Crochet hook size 4.0 millimeters (G)
- Yarn needle
- Scissors
Notes Before Starting:
This pattern is worked from the center outward in joined rounds. The corners are formed using double crochet increases, but there are no chain spaces between clusters on the sides, giving it a solid appearance.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Start the Center Ring:
Make a slip knot and chain four.
Slip stitch into the first chain to form a ring. - Round 1:
Chain three (counts as your first double crochet).
Work two more double crochet stitches into the ring, then chain two to form the first corner.
Work three double crochet stitches, chain two.
Repeat this three more times until you have four sets of three double crochet stitches with chain two spaces between them.
Slip stitch into the top of the starting chain three to close the round. - Round 2:
Slip stitch over to the next chain two corner space.
Chain three, work two double crochet stitches, chain two, and work three more double crochet stitches in the same space.
Move directly to the next corner and repeat the same corner group (three double crochet stitches, chain two, three double crochet stitches).
Continue around and slip stitch into the top of the chain three. - Round 3 – Filling the Sides:
Slip stitch to the next chain two space.
Chain three, two double crochet stitches, chain two, and three more double crochet stitches in the corner.
Between corners, work three double crochet stitches in the space between the corner clusters. This will fill the sides and create the solid structure.
Continue around, joining at the top of the starting chain three. - Rounds 4 and Beyond:
Repeat the same pattern, always placing three double crochet stitches, chain two, three double crochet stitches in the corners, and three double crochet stitches in each side space.
Finishing and Variations:
- You can make your solid granny square as large as you like by adding rounds.
- Use gradient yarn for a blended color effect.
- This square is perfect for projects that need warmth and structure, such as bags, seat covers, or cardigans.
- Block the finished piece for even edges.
Pattern 3: Sunburst Granny Square
The sunburst granny square adds texture and visual interest by starting with a circular center and transitioning into a square. It uses puff stitches to create a soft, dimensional design that looks stunning in multiple colors.
Skill Level:
Beginner to intermediate
Finished Size:
Approximately 5.5 inches × 5.5 inches
Materials:
Copy and use these directly:
- Worsted weight yarn (#4) in four colors (Color A for center, Color B for round two, Color C for round three, Color D for edging)
- Crochet hook size 4.0 millimeters (G)
- Yarn needle
- Scissors
Notes Before Starting:
This square begins as a circle, then transitions to a square shape. You will use puff stitches in the early rounds to give the center texture. A puff stitch is made by working several partial double crochets into the same stitch, then pulling through all loops at once. This technique will be written in full form below for clarity.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Round 1 – Center Circle:
With Color A, make a slip knot and chain four.
Slip stitch into the first chain to form a ring.
Chain three (counts as one double crochet).
Work eleven more double crochet stitches into the ring.
You should have twelve stitches in total.
Slip stitch into the top of the chain three to close.
Fasten off Color A. - Round 2 – Puff Stitch Round:
Attach Color B into any stitch.
Chain two (does not count as a stitch).
To make a puff stitch:- Yarn over, insert the hook into the same stitch, yarn over, and pull up a loop (three loops on hook).
- Yarn over again, insert into the same stitch, yarn over, and pull up a loop (five loops on hook).
- Repeat one more time (seven loops on hook).
- Yarn over and pull through all seven loops at once.
- Chain one to close the puff.
Continue making one puff stitch and one chain in each stitch around.
You will have twelve puff stitches.
Slip stitch into the top of the first puff to join.
Fasten off Color B.
- Round 3 – Transition Round:
Attach Color C in any chain one space between puffs.
Chain three (counts as first double crochet).
Work two more double crochet stitches into the same space.
Chain one, then work three double crochet stitches into the next chain one space.
Continue around, always working three double crochet stitches separated by one chain space.
Join with a slip stitch at the top of the chain three.
Fasten off. - Round 4 – Squaring the Shape:
Attach Color D into any chain space.
Work the following into the same space: three double crochet stitches, chain two, three double crochet stitches — this forms your first corner.
Chain one, then work three double crochet stitches in the next space.
In the next space, form another corner (three double crochet stitches, chain two, three double crochet stitches).
Continue this pattern until you have four corners and four side groups.
Slip stitch to the top of the starting chain three. - Round 5 – Border:
Chain one and work one single crochet stitch in each stitch and chain space around.
Work three single crochet stitches in each corner chain two space for a clean edge.
Slip stitch to the first single crochet and fasten off.
Finishing and Variations:
- The puff stitches make this square stand out — use contrasting colors for each round to highlight the design.
- These squares look beautiful joined into blankets or cushions.
- To enlarge, continue adding rounds following the same corner structure.
- Block your square gently to define its shape and corners.
Pattern 4: Flower Center Granny Square
Skill Level: Easy
Finished Size: Approximately 5 inches (12.7 cm) square
Materials
Yarn:
- Light worsted weight (Category 3) cotton yarn in two colors:
- Color A (center flower)
- Color B (outer square)
Hook: 4 mm (G-6) crochet hook
Other Supplies: Yarn needle, scissors
Notes Before Beginning
This beautiful square begins with a small flower at the center and transitions into a traditional granny square shape. It’s great for blankets, cushions, or bags. You’ll work in rounds, changing colors after the flower portion.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Round 1 (Flower Center):
With Color A, make a magic ring.
- Chain 3 (counts as first double crochet).
- Work 11 double crochets into the ring.
- Slip stitch into the top of the starting chain-3 to join. (12 stitches total)
- Fasten off Color A.
Round 2 (Petals):
Attach Color A in any stitch.
- Chain 2, yarn over, insert the hook into the same stitch, pull up a loop, yarn over, pull through two loops. Repeat this until you have 4 loops on your hook. Yarn over and pull through all 4 loops, then chain 2.
- Repeat this process in every stitch around to create 12 small puff-like petals.
- Slip stitch to the first chain-2 space to close the round. Fasten off Color A.
Round 3 (Square Formation):
Attach Color B in any chain-2 space.
- Chain 3 (counts as a double crochet), 2 double crochets, chain 2, 3 double crochets – this forms your first corner.
- In the next chain-2 space, work 3 double crochets (no chain space).
- Continue this sequence around the flower — make a corner in every third space (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc), and fill the rest with 3 dc clusters.
- Slip stitch to the top of your first chain-3 to join.
Round 4 (Expanding):
- Slip stitch to the next chain-2 corner space.
- In each corner, work 3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc.
- In each side space, work 3 dc.
- Continue around. Join and fasten off.
Finishing Tips
Block your square for crisp edges. The floral center looks lovely in pastel shades or contrasting bright tones. You can add another round of single crochet around the edge for a clean finish.
Pattern 5: Heart Granny Square
Skill Level: Intermediate Beginner
Finished Size: Approximately 5 inches (12.7 cm) square
Materials
Yarn:
- Light worsted (Category 3) yarn in two colors:
- Color A (heart center)
- Color B (background square)
Hook: 4 mm (G-6)
Other Supplies: Yarn needle, scissors
Notes Before Beginning
This charming granny square has a heart shape at the center — perfect for Valentine’s projects or cozy baby blankets. The heart is worked in the round and then squared off with the background color.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Round 1 (Heart Center Start):
With Color A, chain 4 and slip stitch to form a ring.
- Chain 3 (counts as a double crochet), then work 2 double crochets into the ring.
- Chain 2, work 3 double crochets into the ring again.
- Repeat twice more to create a total of 4 groups of 3 double crochets, separated by chain-2 spaces.
- Slip stitch to the top of chain-3 to join. (Basic square center foundation.)
Round 2 (Shaping the Heart):
Now we form the heart curve.
- In the next chain-2 corner, work 2 double crochets, 2 treble crochets, 2 double crochets.
- Work 3 double crochets in the next space, then 2 double crochets, 2 treble crochets, 2 double crochets in the next corner space again.
- Continue this pattern to complete the heart shape. Slip stitch to join.
- Fasten off Color A.
Round 3 (Background):
Attach Color B in any space.
- Chain 3 (counts as dc), 2 dc, chain 2, 3 dc in the same space for the first corner.
- Work 3 dc in each space along the sides, with 3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc in each corner.
- Join with a slip stitch and fasten off.
Round 4 (Optional Edge):
- With Color B, you can work a round of single crochet stitches evenly around for a neat edge.
Finishing Tips
Block lightly so the heart shape stays defined. You can alternate colors for a checkerboard effect or use soft pinks and whites for a cozy blanket aesthetic.
Pattern 6: Puff Stitch Granny Square
Skill Level: Easy
Finished Size: Approximately 4.5 inches (11.5 cm) square
Materials
Yarn:
- Worsted weight yarn (Category 4) in two contrasting colors
Hook: 5 mm (H-8)
Other Supplies: Yarn needle, scissors
Notes Before Beginning
This pattern features raised puff stitches that add texture and warmth. It’s slightly thicker than a traditional granny square, making it great for blankets or bags.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Round 1:
With Color A, make a magic ring.
- Chain 3 (counts as first dc). Work 2 dc into the ring, chain 2.
- 3 dc, ch 2 three more times to make 4 corners.
- Join with a slip stitch to top of the chain-3. Fasten off Color A.
Round 2 (Puff Stitch Row):
Attach Color B in any chain-2 space.
- Chain 2 (does not count as stitch), yarn over, insert hook in the same space, pull up a loop. Repeat 4 more times (you will have 9 loops on hook). Yarn over and pull through all loops, then chain 1 to secure (that’s your puff stitch).
- Chain 2, make another puff stitch in the same space (for the corner).
- Work puff stitches between each 3-dc cluster, with corners having 2 puff stitches separated by chain-2.
- Join with a slip stitch to the top of the first puff.
Round 3:
Switch back to Color A.
- In each chain space, work 3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc for corners and 3 dc for sides.
- Continue around and join.
Round 4 (Optional):
Work one round of single crochet stitches in Color A for a clean edge.
Finishing Tips
Puff stitches make this square extra cozy and textured. If you want a smoother texture, try half-double crochet puffs instead. Great color combos include cream with sage green or mustard with white.
Pattern 7: Circle-to-Square Granny Square
Skill Level: Easy
Finished Size: Approximately 6 inches (15 cm) square
Materials
Yarn:
- Light worsted (Category 3) yarn in two shades:
- Color A (center circle)
- Color B (square border)
Hook: 4 mm (G-6)
Other Supplies: Yarn needle, scissors
Notes Before Beginning
This pattern begins as a circle and transitions smoothly into a square, creating a modern and balanced look. It’s a fun twist on the classic granny square and perfect for color experiments.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Round 1 (Circle):
With Color A, make a magic ring.
- Chain 3 (counts as first dc), then work 11 more double crochets into the ring.
- Join with a slip stitch. (12 dc total.)
Round 2:
- Chain 3, then work 1 dc into the same stitch.
- Work 2 dc into each stitch around (24 dc total).
- Join and fasten off Color A.
Round 3 (Transition Round):
Attach Color B in any stitch.
- Chain 3, 1 dc in next 2 stitches, 2 dc in next — repeat this around. (You’ll have 32 dc.)
- Join with a slip stitch.
Round 4 (Forming the Square):
- To begin shaping: in any stitch, work (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) — this creates your first corner.
- Then, 3 dc in each of the next 5 spaces to form the side.
- Repeat the corner pattern and side sequence around.
- Join with a slip stitch.
Round 5 (Finishing Round):
- Continue working 3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc in each corner and 3 dc along sides.
- Join and fasten off.
Finishing Tips
Block gently to shape it into a perfect square. The round-to-square design looks beautiful when made in gradient or ombre yarns. It’s also a great way to practice circle tension before assembling large projects.
Final Thoughts
These 7 Starter Crochet Granny Square Patterns are perfect for beginners ready to expand their skills. Each pattern introduces a slightly different stitch or shape concept, from classic clusters to textured puffs and decorative centers. You can use these squares individually as coasters or join them together to make blankets, scarves, or decorative wall pieces.
Mix and match your colors, experiment with yarn types, and most importantly — enjoy the process of creating something with your own hands.
