Once you learn the basic stitches of crochet, the easiest thing to work on is the granny square. It might come next to something simple as a dishcloth or scarf, however, it lays the foundation of almost any crochet project. You can refer to our previous blog on how to crochet a classic granny square. Built with basic crochet stitches, the square remains a favorite due to its versatility and timeless appeal. With modern crochet techniques, vibrant yarns and your crochet hooks, Granny Squares remains crocheters’ go-to project for its classic charm and also its expanding possibilities. In this blog, we’ll walk you through exploring the classic granny square and its various design possibilities.
What’s the Granny Square?
Granny Square is synonymous with crochet. They are often used as the foundation of any project. Let’s take a look at what Wikipedia says about Granny Square. The piece of square fabric is produced in crochet by working in rounds from the center outward. Although particular color and pattern schemes for granny squares change with time, this class of motif is a staple among crocheters. Multicolor granny squares are an effective way to use up small amounts of yarn left over from other projects and basic granny square motifs do not require advanced skills to execute.
The origins of the Granny Square trace back to the late 19th century. The description of the traditional design was submitted in an edition of Prairie Farmer by a Mrs Phleps. She was experimenting with a design for an Afghan where she explored the potential of treble crochet stitches in US terms (known as double crochet stitches in UK terms). By the mid-20th century, Granny Squares became synonymous with colorful, handmade afghans and bohemian-style apparel. Their vibrant hues and cozy texture brought charm to homes and wardrobes, especially during the DIY crafting boom of the 1970s.
The best explore multiple design possibilities with the humble square. Think garments, accessories home décor and anything crocheted.
Why Granny Squares Remain Popular
- Beginner-Friendly- With a basic crochet hook and some yarn, even beginners can create the classic granny square and begin with projects.
- Portable- The project is small and manageable, perfect for crafting on the go.
- Customizable- From experimenting with colors to combining different stitches, the design possibilities are endless.
- Sustainable - The granny squares are ideal for using up leftover yarn, making them an eco-friendly choice.
The beauty of the granny square is that it only requires a crochet hook. You can choose according to your comfort level.
Single-ended crochet hooks are basic tools for any traditional project. From basic dishcloths to vast blankets, you can work with any project. Double-ended crochet hooks have the benefit of two different hook sizes on either side allowing them to meet gauge as per requirement. Even with Tunisian crochet hooks, you can attempt to make granny squares. Interchangeable Tunisian crochet hooks work like regular hooks if you do not attach the cord.
And, the most important thing is the crochet hook size should match the yarn weight. Refer to the yarn label or go by your own gauge or the pattern instructions.
For the material of the crochet hook, work with wood or bamboo. Dreamz, Ginger and Symfonie offer laminated birchwood that is warm in the hands of the makers. For aluminum hooks, there’s Zing that offers vibrant shades and smooth surfaces. Waves 2.0 brings colorful rubber handles that are smooth on the hands. Oasis interchangeable crochet hooks are a game changer as you can work with any crochet hook size that fits on an ergonomic wooden handle. Investing in a quality crochet hook set ensures versatility and comfort for all your projects.
New Design Possibilities with Granny Squares
Traditional Granny Squares featured simple, symmetrical patterns. If you are looking to explore some modern variations, here’s what you can try:
Texture Stitch variations - When you combine post stitches, popcorn stitches, or cluster stitches to make the granny squares then you add depth and texture. Instead of making TR stitches any other textured stitch variation is a perfect choice to experiment with. Explore our blog on how to crochet the bobble stitch and pair it with the granny square.
Creative Shapes- Granny Hexagons is a creative spin on the classic square. You start similar to the granny square but instead of squaring up, you make it a hexagon offering a geometric, honeycomb-like effect. Granny Triangles are another variation. Instead of working four corners, you shape your piece into a three-sided motif, perfect for shawls and unique patchwork designs.
Mock-Granny Squares - This is a fun experiment. You can work with solid stitches or lacework to create a more dense or airy appearance, depending on your preference.
Color combinations- Instead of working with different semisolid shades of yarn work with a single shade or a skein of variegated yarns. Modern yarn collections offer various options that add visual interest to Granny Squares.
The humble granny square is timeless! Social media and online platforms have brought the popularity of Granny Squares. Whether you’re a beginner exploring the basics or an experienced crocheter, Granny Squares offers an opportunity to experiment. So, grab your crochet hook set, pick your favorite yarn, and let your creativity shine through the magic of Granny Squares!