Do you want to learn how to crochet the classic solid granny square pattern? In this guide, I’ll show you the simplest way to crochet a solid granny square. And as you go through each step, I’ll share secrets for making them picture-perfect. I’ve included lots of photos and a video tutorial to walk you through it all.
UPDATED: JULY 28, 2023 BY BRITTANY
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A modern twist on the classic granny square, the solid granny square is just as popular. Granny squares continue to find their place in contemporary fashion and modern homes so it’s a great time to learn how to crochet this iconic square.
When you join solid granny squares together you can create blankets, scarves, pillows, and even bags. So gather your trusty hooks and a bundle of your favorite yarn. With a little practice, you’ll have a stack of solid granny squares to become your next big project.
Here is a quick overview of the topics we will cover in this article:
- Solid Granny Square Pattern
- Finishing the Solid Granny Square
- Solid Granny Square Pattern Tutorial
- How Many Rounds Should a Solid Granny Square Have?
- How to Add More Rounds to a Solid Granny Square
- Stitch Counts for Solid Granny Squares
- What Crochet Hook Is Best for Solid Granny Squares?
- What Other Granny Square Tips Make Perfect Squares?
- What is the Easiest Way to Join Granny Squares?
- Should You Block Solid Granny Squares?
- Patterns Using Solid Granny Squares
Solid Granny Square Pattern
The traditional solid granny square pattern can be worked in a few different ways. I’ve tried them all, but the following pattern is my favorite to make solid granny squares because it looks the neatest.
Supplies
- Yarn: For practice, use medium-weight yarn. You’ll only need a small amount to practice a few rounds.
- Crochet Hook: 4.5 mm crochet hook.
Using a smaller hook size than you would normally use for a medium-weight yarn is intentional. Through an extensive test of granny square tips, we determined that using a smaller hook will make your granny squares look neater. You can use any kind of medium-weight yarn you have on hand. Something that’s smooth, so you can see the stitches well will be the best choice.
Pattern Notes
- The side facing you as you crochet is considered the right side of the granny square.
- This crochet pattern is written in US terms.
Three Ways to Start the Solid Granny Square Pattern
There are three ways to start the first round: starting in a single chain, starting in a center ring, or using the magic loop. While each option is perfectly acceptable, we prefer to start our granny squares with a center ring. The ring provides enough space to fit all the stitches of the first round, and it’s much more approachable for a beginner than a magic ring.
Stitch Abbreviations
Before you start crocheting, get familiar with the abbreviations below. These are the abbreviations you’ll see in the pattern. For reference, this pattern is written in US terms.
- Ch Chain
- Dc Double Crochet
- Slst Slip Stitch
- Sp Space
- St(s) Stitch(es)
Round 1: Ch 3. Join with a slst to the first ch. Ch 5. In the center of the ring, [3 dc. Ch 2] three times. Ch 2. 2 dc in center of the ring. Join with a slst in ch-5 sp. (12 dc)
Round 2: Ch 5. 2 dc in ch-2 sp. [1 dc in each st to next ch-2 sp. In ch-2 sp, (2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc)] three times. Dc in last 3 sts. Dc in ch-2 sp. Join with a slst in ch-5 sp. (28 dc)
Round 3: Ch 5. 2 dc in ch-2 sp. [1 dc in each st to next ch-2 sp. In ch-2 sp, (2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc)] three times. Dc in the last 7 sts. Dc in ch-2 sp. Join with a slst in ch-5 sp. (44 dc)
Round 4: Ch 5. 2 dc in ch-2 sp. [1 dc in each st to next ch-2 sp. In ch-2 sp, (2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc)] three times. Dc in the last 11 sts. Dc in ch-2 sp. Join with a slst in ch-5 sp. (60 dc)
Round 5: Ch 5. 2 dc in ch-2 sp. [1 dc in each st to next ch-2 sp. In ch-2 sp, (2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc)] three times. Dc in the last 15 sts. Dc in ch-2 sp. Join with a slst in ch-5 sp. (76 dc)
Fasten off and weave in the ends.
Finishing the Solid Granny Squares
Your granny squares may not look perfectly square right off the hook, and it’s completely normal. That’s why we recommend wet blocking them before you start joining them together.
This process will “set” the stitches into a perfectly square position so your bag will look more polished and professional.
If you’re unfamiliar with the blocking process, check out our beginner-friendly guide and video here.
Solid Granny Square Pattern Tutorial
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Right-Handed Tutorial on YouTube
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How Many Rounds Should a Granny Square Pattern Have?
Four or five rounds are common in most granny square patterns. But occasionally you may want a larger or even a giant granny square.
So how do you know how many rounds your granny square should have?
First, establish the desired width and length of your project, making sure you have a clear vision in mind. Since granny squares are perfectly square, you’ll need to identify a number that can be divided into both dimensions evenly.
For example, if you want to make a blanket that’s 40″ wide and 50″ long, a granny square that’s 5″ is one possible option. Because 5 divides into 40 and 50 evenly.
So how do you make sure your granny square turns out that size?
You’ll have to experiment with different yarn weights, hook sizes, and the number of rounds. In doing so, you’ll find the ideal combination to create granny squares of the dimensions you need.
If you can’t find a combination that makes the exact size you need, use the combination that’s closest but smaller. Then wet block the granny squares to the exact dimensions you need.
How to Add More Rounds to the Solid Granny Square Pattern
Now, let’s dive into adding more rounds to the initial five in our solid granny square pattern above. As you progress to later rounds, you’ll need to make slight adjustments in the pattern instructions. But it’s really easy to memorize!
Notice that each round of the solid granny square is made of four corners and double crochets in between.
From one round to the next, the stitch combination for each corner (dc, ch 2, dc) remains the same. So what makes one round different from the next is the number of double crochets between each corner. As your solid granny square grows, the number of double crochets between the corner chains increases by four.
Notice the first and second round double crochet stitches. In the first round, there are three double crochets between the corner chains. And on the second round, there are seven. This is the general pattern. For every round you add, you’ll have four more double crochets between each corner chain. Everything else with the pattern stays the same.
Stitch Counts for Solid Granny Squares
Total Stitches | |
Round 1 | 12 |
Round 2 | 28 |
Round 3 | 44 |
Round 4 | 60 |
Round 5 | 76 |
Round 6 | 92 |
Round 7 | 108 |
Round 8 | 124 |
Round 9 | 140 |
Round 10 | 156 |
Round 11 | 172 |
Round 12 | 188 |
Round 13 | 204 |
Round 14 | 220 |
Round 15 | 236 |
What Crochet Hook Is Best to Use With the Solid Granny Square Pattern?
It’s tempting to assume that any hook size matching your yarn will work. But our extensive Granny Square testing experiment revealed a valuable insight: using a smaller crochet hook makes a neater-looking square.
So the best crochet hook for solid granny squares is one that’s one or two sizes smaller than the recommended hook size for the yarn.
So if your yarn label says to use a 5.5mm crochet hook, you should actually use a 4mm or 4.5mm for the neatest results.
What Other Granny Square Tricks Make Perfect Squares?
At B.Hooked, we’re passionate about granny squares and dedicated to providing a wealth of resources to help you create the most stunning versions. If you haven’t yet discovered the magic of “wet blocking,” we highly recommend exploring this technique. We’ve prepared a comprehensive guide, similar to the one you’re currently reading, that will carefully walk you through the process, step-by-step.
When it comes to granny squares, it’s not uncommon for them to lack that perfect look right off the hook. You might notice rounded corners, slightly wavy sides, or even a spiral appearance. But fear not, it’s not a reflection of your skills! We tested the most popular tricks to see which ones work. See the results in our article here.
Believe it or not, the right joining method can make or break your project. Here are five simple and classic ways to join granny squares.
What is the Easiest Way to Join Granny Squares?
There are many ways to join granny squares, each with its own purpose and suitability. But when you need a quick and easy join, you can’t go wrong with the invisible seam. This join gives your granny squares a “fused at the edges kind of look”.
You can learn how to do this quick and easy join for granny squares in our helpful guide here. There’s a video tutorial and written instructions as well.
For more simple ways to join granny squares, check out our article here.
Should You Block Solid Granny Squares?
Yes, you should block your solid granny squares. Blocking granny squares will give them a more professional appearance and help achieve a perfectly square shape. So if you’ve ever wondered why your granny square isn’t flat, or why your granny square blanket isn’t square, or if you’ve ever encountered a granny square with soft or rounded edges, chances are it wasn’t blocked.
These squares have not been blocked. Notice the points of the corners are slightly rounded, and the edges aren’t perfectly straight.
We highly recommend taking the time to block your solid granny squares to achieve perfectly squared results. Not only will this lend a polished and professional appearance, but it will also enhance the overall look when the squares are joined together to form a cohesive project.
So how do you block a solid granny square?
The blocking process itself is quite straightforward. Begin by saturating your squares with water, either by dunking them in a filled sink or using a spray bottle. Gently wring out any excess water and proceed to pin the square onto a blocking mat, ensuring it assumes a perfectly square shape. During this step, it’s crucial to stretch the square slightly, applying tension to the stitches. This will allow the square to relax and settle into its new squared position as it dries. For more information about blocking, check out our guide here.
Patterns Using the Solid Granny Square Pattern
So are you wondering what to make with all of these granny squares? Here are a few free patterns that we have available using the classic granny square and some familiar variants. We’re always adding to this list so bookmark this page and check back when you need some more granny square inspiration.
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