Crochet Granny Squares: Patterns, Yarns and Tutorials for Every Project

If you're looking for a crochet granny square pattern to get started with, you're in the right place. Crochet squares — also known as granny squares — are the basic module for hundreds of projects: blankets, bags, tops, cushions, table runners. Few stitches, endless versatility. In this guide you'll find the three most-used patterns, a selection of Tessiland cottons for every need and tutorials from our creators to see the technique in action.

The 3 crochet granny square patterns

There isn't just one pattern: the granny square comes in variations with very different characteristics. Here are the three most popular ones.

How to start: 3 decisions to make first

Before casting on, it's worth settling three things. It'll save you from frogging halfway through.

1. How many rounds? A classic 3-round square measures about 9–10 cm with a DK cotton. At 4 rounds it reaches 12–13 cm. Decide the final size upfront and keep it consistent throughout the project.
2. One colour or more? Solid colour for a modern, clean look. Colour change every round for the classic multicolour granny effect. Drake in the natural range is perfect for earthy palettes; Iggy in saturated colours for sharp contrasts.
3. How to join the squares? Visible slip stitch creates a decorative ridge. Join-as-you-go connects each square while you work, with no seaming at the end. Crab stitch seaming leaves a raised border that becomes a design feature.

Which cotton to choose for granny squares

Cotton is the most popular yarn for granny squares: it holds its shape, is machine washable and comes in a huge range of colours. Here are the five Tessiland cottons best suited to the technique, from lowest to highest price.

Drake

Ecological cotton DK · 50g

€1.20

Discover Drake →

Iggy

Mercerised cotton DK · 50g

€1.80

Discover Iggy →

Norah

Mélange cotton · 50g

€2.90

Discover Norah →

Rumba

Gradient cotton · 50g

€4.90

Discover Rumba →

Iggy XXL

Mercerised cotton maxi · 50g

€2.00

Discover Iggy XXL →

Tutorials: Tessiland creators working with granny squares

These two creators use the granny square technique in very different ways: from the individual square as a standalone decorative element, to building an entire garment module by module.

Cristiana Rossi

UNIQUE EFFECT crochet square

A three-dimensional granny square. Cristiana uses Norah to make the most of the mélange colour variations on a structured stitch.

Watch with Norah on Studio →

La Fata Tuttofare

EAGLES hexagon blouse

The modular technique taken into wearables: hexagons joined directly on the template to build a complete garment. Made with Iggy mercerised cotton.

Watch with Iggy on Studio →

What you can make with granny squares

Once you have the basic module, the possibilities multiply. Here are the five most popular projects, with the recommended yarn for each.

1. Granny square blanket — the most iconic project. For a sofa throw (120×150 cm) using 12 cm squares, you'll need around 150 modules. Recommended yarn: Drake or Iggy.
2. Granny square patchwork bag — two or four squares sewn together form the bag body. The solid granny gives better structure. Recommended yarn: Iggy XXL for larger versions.
3. Cushion — granny square front, plain fabric back in a matching colour. Recommended yarn: Rumba for natural gradients.
4. Top and cardigan — the modular technique applied to clothing, assembling squares directly on the pattern pieces. Recommended yarn: Norah mélange for an automatic gradient effect.
5. Table runner and placemat — rows of aligned squares, ideal for a modular project you can easily pick up and put down. Recommended yarn: Drake ecological.

FAQ — Frequently asked questions about crochet granny squares