A simple step-by-step tutorial for crocheting a basic granny square.
Granny squares can be used in a multitude of projects. This is the granny square I used to create my Kit Cardigan, a free pattern you can find here.
Abbreviations & Notes
ch chain
dc double crochet
sl st slip stitch
Chain 3 at the beginning of round counts as a double crochet stitch.
A cluster refers to 3 double crochet stitches in the same stitch/space.
Step 1:
Using any weight yarn with corresponding hook, create a slip knot and ch 4.
Step 2:
Slip stitch into the first chain (closest to the slip knot) to form a circle/ring.
Step 3:
Chain 3 stitches
Step 4:
Put 2 double crochet stitches into the middle of the circle/ring
Step 5:
*Chain 2, 3 double crochet stitches in the middle of the circle/ring* 3 more times. You should have a total of 4 clusters in the ring. Chain 2, join to the top of the first chain 3 with a slip stitch to complete the first round of your granny square.
Step 6:
Chain 3. Put 2 double crochet stitches in the previous chain 2 space.
Step 7:
*Chain 1, 3 double crochet stitches in the next corner chain space, chain 2, 3 double crochet stitches in the same corner chain space.* Repeat 2 more times. Chain 1, 3 double crochet stitches in the last corner chain space, chain 2, slip stitch to the top of the chain 3 to finish the round.
Step 8:
To crochet a third round:
Chain 3, 2 dc in the previous chain space. Chain 1, *3 dc in the next ch space, chain 1, 3 dc in the corner chain space, ch 2, 3 dc in the same corner chain space, chain 1* until you reach the last corner space, 3 dc in the last chain space, chain 2, slip stitch to the first chain 3 to finish the round.
To continue growing your granny square, each round begins with a chain 3. You will put 2 clusters in each corner (6 dc total) with 2 chain stitches between), all other chain spaces will have one cluster (3 dc) with 1 chain stitch in between.