Granny square crochet patterns are seen everywhere including; blankets, afghans, sweaters, cardigans and accessories.
The classic granny square is one of the most well-known motifs in crochet.
There are many different stitch patterns available, that include colour changes, different stitches and techniques.
The History of The Granny Square and The Word Afghan
The word ‘afghan’ was apparently first heard in English during the early 1700s.
This was the name given to the Pashtuns of Eastern and Southern Afghanistan.
They were well known for their extravagant textiles and carpets.
But the granny square was thought to have come from a different place, as merchants would bring colourful rugs over to the USA from the UK via the Middle East.
By the early 1800s, colourful blankets with squares stitched together with many colours came to be known as granny square afghans.
The name has stuck around and is well known by makers around the globe.
Crochet Squares
The history of the granny square is thought to have been a way for people to use up and recycle scraps of yarn.
Women would unravel old sweaters and socks and crochet the yarn into small squares.
They would choose various colours and stitch patterns, making lots of squares.
The squares would be sewn together to make a colourful blanket or afghan.
The grandma of the family would normally have the task of stitching all of the squares together, and this is how they became known as ‘granny squares’.
Granny Square Blankets
You often see patterns for granny square blankets, with colourful squares in various designs.
They can range from simple patterns for beginners to more advanced complicated stitches.
Depending on your own skill level, there are many choices out there and lots of lovely free patterns!
Easy Granny Square
This simple beginner crochet granny square pattern is easy to follow.
The tutorial has step by step photographs and video tutorials to help you.
Made with cotton and a size 4mm (G/6) crochet hook.
Flower Granny Square
This crochet sunflower granny square is part of a project to make a blanket.
You can make two types of sunflower crochet square and see examples of them joined together.
Get the free pattern from Brenna Ann Handmade – in collaboration with Hobium Yarns.
Classic Granny Square Pattern
If you want to make a classic granny square, try out this step by step tutorial from You Should Craft.
The classic design can be used for a number of items including blankets, pillows and stuffed animals.
The crochet square needs a 5mm(US H) hook and Caron Simply Soft Yarn.
Crochet Square Patterns
In the round-up below, you will see 20 different granny square patterns.
From the more basic stitch patterns to the more advanced, there will be something for every skill level to try out.
If you are new to crochet and want to practice the crochet basics, perhaps start with the granny square patterns above first.
If you need a refresher for any other terms or stitches, take a look at these posts below;
20 Granny Square Crochet Patterns
Take a look through this round-up of crochet granny squares and choose your next project!
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