The Classic Granny Square
Welcome to The Granny Square Fair, where even the simplest stitches come together to make something timeless! Today we’re making the Basic Granny Square — the quintessential pattern that launched a thousand (zillion?) blankets.
Today we’re working up a Single Color Classic Granny Square. This version lets the stitchwork shine without the distraction of color changes. Less ends to weave in so it’s the perfect starting point for beginners and a meditative make for seasoned crocheters.
Jump to:
Skill Level
Beginner — If you’re comfortable with the basic stitches (chain, double crochet, and slip stitch) and can work in the round, you’ll find this pattern as easy as it is satisfying.
Stitch Abbreviations Used in the Pattern (U.S. Terms)
| Abbreviation | Stitch Name |
|---|---|
| ch | chain |
| sl st | slip stitch |
| dc | double crochet |
| sp | space |
| st(s) | stitch(es) |
| rep | repeat |
What You’ll Need
- Yarn: Any weight yarn you love. I used a wool blend 3 (sport) weight yarn.
- Hook: Use the hook size recommended on your yarn label, go down a hook size for smaller "holes" or up a hook size for added drape.
- Notions: Scissors, optional yarn needle, and your favorite cozy corner.
Gauge & Size
Gauge isn’t crucial here. A 4-weight yarn with a 5mm (H) hook yields a square about 5 inches across after four rounds. Use lighter yarn and smaller hooks for daintier motifs, or go chunky for a statement piece.
Pattern Notes
- Worked in the round, joining each round with a slip stitch.
- We will turn the work at the beginning of each round.
- Starting chains count as stitches.
Single Color Classic Granny Square Pattern
To begin:
Ch 4, sl st to the first ch to form a ring. (Or use a magic ring if you prefer.)
Round 1
Ch 3 (counts as 1 dc), 2 dc into the ring, ch 2.
(3 dc, ch 2) three more times into the ring.
Sl st to the top of the starting ch-3 to complete the rnd.
(You’ll have 4 groups of 3 dc and 4 ch-2 corners.)
Round 2
Ch 3 (counts as 1 dc) and turn your work, 2 dc, ch 2, 3 dc all in the nearest ch sp.
*Ch 1, (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in next ch-2 space*
Rep from * to * around for every ch sp.
Ch1 and sl st to the top of the starting ch-3 to complete the rnd. (8 3dc clusters, 4ch2 sps, 4ch1 sps)
Round 3
Ch 3 (counts as 1 dc) and turn your work, 2 dc in the nearest ch sp.
*Ch 1, (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in next ch-2 space. Ch1 and make 3dc in the next ch1 sp*
Rep from * to * around to the last ch2 space. Work one more corner (3dc, ch2, 3dc), ch1 and sl st to the top of the starting ch-3 to complete the rnd.
Round 4 and beyond
Ch 3 (counts as 1 dc) and turn your work, work 2 more dc in the next ch1 sp. Ch1 and either work (3dc, ch2, 3dc) into ch2 sps or work 3dc, ch1 in each ch1 sp from the prev rnd. Sl st to the starting ch3 to finish rnds.
Each new round adds one more 3-dc cluster per side. You can continue this pattern as wide as you'd like. I did 5 rounds total.
Finishing Touches
Fasten off and weave in your ends. For extra polish, give your square a gentle block — a bit of steam or a light pin-out helps those corners stay neat and true.
The result? A timeless, all-purpose granny that’s soft, sturdy, and endlessly useful. Make a stack for blankets, bags, or even wearables — or simply enjoy the quiet rhythm of hook and yarn for its own sake.
Until next time, keep those hooks busy and your corners square — we’ll see you again at The Granny Square Fair!