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Granny squares are one of the most iconic symbols of crochet, loved for their versatility, charm and endless possibilities. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced crocheter, mastering the art of granny squares can take your projects to the next level. From blankets to bags, the humble granny square can be transformed into beautiful works of art with a few tips and tricks. If you are ready to create the perfect granny square every time, here are 10 must know tips to get you there!

Choose the Right Yarn and Hook Size

The foundation of a perfect granny square starts with choosing the right yarn and hook. For beginners, a medium weight yarn like worsted weight and a hook size of 5mm (H-8) work well together, giving you enough stitch definition without being too tight or loose. Experimenting with different yarn types of cotton, acrylic or wool can also add different textures and finishes to your squares.

Master the Magic Circle

The magic circle also called a magic ring is the key to starting a seamless center in your granny square. This technique eliminates the hole that can appear when starting with a chain ring. It may take a little practice but once you get the hang of it, your granny squares will look neat and polished right from the center.

Consistent Tension is Key

One of the biggest challenges with granny squares is achieving consistent tension across all your stitches. If your tension is too tight, your square may become too small and stiff. If it’s too loose, the square may become floppy and uneven. Try to keep your tension steady and practice until you can crochet without pulling too tight or leaving too much slack.

Count Your Stitches And Count Again!

Granny squares typically follow a set stitch count usually three double crochets (dc) per corner, with chains in between. If you are following a pattern, it’s important to count your stitches as you go, especially in the rounds. Missing a stitch here or there can lead to uneven corners or an out of shape square. Don’t be afraid to stop and double check your work!

Use a Stitch Marker for Corner Accuracy

Corners can be tricky in granny squares, especially when working with multiple rounds. To help you remember where your corners are, use a stitch marker to mark the first stitch in each corner. This simple trick will ensure that your corners are neat and well defined every time and it will save you from second guessing your placement.

Keep Your Square Flat with Blocking

Crochet Stitches. Photo Credit: Miriam Alonso/Pexels

Blocking is a crucial step in perfecting your granny square, as it helps flatten any wonky edges and ensures each square is the same size. After you have finished your square, gently steam or wet block it by pinning it to a flat surface and shaping it into a perfect square. This step is especially important when joining squares together for larger projects like blankets, ensuring a smooth, even finish.

Don’t Be Afraid of Color Combinations

Granny squares are famous for their colorful designs, so don’t shy away from mixing colors. Choose complementary or contrasting colors to create stunning patterns. If you are unsure where to start, a simple color wheel can guide your choices. You can also opt for a color palette based on the project’s theme; pastels for a soft, delicate blanket or bold, bright hues for a modern pop.

Avoiding the Twisting of Rounds

As you work through each round, it’s important to keep your stitches aligned. Twisted granny squares can happen when you are not mindful of stitch placement or if your work turns in on itself. Always make sure to crochet in the same direction and adjust your work if it starts to twist, keeping each round nice and even.

Join Your Squares with Care

When it’s time to join your granny squares, there are various methods to choose from such as whip stitch, slip stitch or the flat braid join. Each technique has its advantages, whichever one you use, be sure to match the tension and placement to avoid uneven seams. Joining squares can be tricky but with a little patience, it can become a seamless part of the process.

Practice Patience and Consistency

Granny squares, though simple, require patience. While they may seem like small, quick projects, they require consistent effort to keep everything in line. Take your time and be patient with yourself, especially if you are new to crocheting or learning a new stitch pattern. With each square, you will see progress and soon you will be cranking out perfect squares with ease!

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Granny squares are a wonderful way to explore color, texture and design in crochet. With these 10 tips, you will be well on your way to creating beautiful, consistent granny squares that can be used for any project, big or small. Whether you are making a blanket, a pillow or a cute accessory, these timeless squares will always have a place in the world of crochet. Happy crocheting!

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.

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