How to Crochet a Granny Square

The granny square is the most iconic crochet motif — and one of the easiest to learn. It uses just three stitches: chain (ch), slip stitch (sl st), and double crochet (dc). In this guide, you'll learn the basics and generate your own customizable granny square pattern.

What You Need

• Worsted weight yarn (1-4 colors)
• 5.0mm crochet hook (US H/8)
• Yarn needle for weaving ends
• Scissors

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Magic ring — Create a magic ring (or chain 4 and slip stitch to join).
2. Round 1 — Ch 3 (counts as first dc), 2 dc into ring, ch 2. Repeat [3 dc, ch 2] three more times. Sl st to top of ch-3 to join. You now have 4 clusters with 4 corner spaces.
3. Round 2 — Sl st to next corner space. Ch 3, 2 dc, ch 2, 3 dc in same space (corner made). [Ch 1, 3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc in next corner space] three times. Ch 1, sl st to join.
4. Round 3+ — Same pattern: 3 dc clusters in each space, with (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in corners. Each round adds one more cluster per side.
5. Fasten off — Cut yarn, pull through, weave in ends.

Tips for Beginners

• Count your stitches after each round — each side should have the same number of clusters.
• Use stitch markers in the corners to keep track.
• For a solid granny (no holes), skip the ch-1 between clusters.
• Change colors at the start of each round for a striped effect.

Generate Your Own Granny Square

CrochetPop lets you customize your granny square — choose the number of rounds, stitch type, colors, and style. Get an interactive chart with row-by-row instructions.

CrochetPop © 2026 — Free crochet pattern generator