If there’s one project every crocheter has made at some point, it’s crocheted granny squares. Despite their iconic status, they’re usually relegated to baby blankets; but these classic crochet staples are far more versatile than that! Let’s delve into a few fun, unexpected ways to use them.
PS: If you’re not familiar with how to make a granny square, be sure to check out Charlotte Lee’s Granny Squares course at the School of SweetGeorgia.
Joining Joy
The most popular way to use granny squares is to join small ones together into larger items such as blankets and pillow covers. They can be joined using whip stitch, slip stitches, or the join-as-you-go method; Charlotte shows how to work these in her Granny Squares course. Whichever method you choose, granny squares can be pieced into lots of other types of projects, such as:
- Small or medium-sized squares are perfect for piecing into the body of a tote or satchel, while little “baby” granny squares can be joined to form a strap and sewn onto the body.
- If you’re a fan of textural shawls, a granny square shawl might be just the ticket, whether in a single colour or several. Nazanin S. Fard’s Persian Tiles shawl pattern uses hexagons, but squares can be equally rich and ornate.
- Table runners and placemats. Granny squares in a hard-wearing cotton or linen yarn are perfect for an everyday table setting, while silk blends such as SweetGeorgia Yarns Flaxen Silk Fine work well for a fancier look.
- A single row of small, colourful granny squares with a button attached would make a cute, quirky belt (perhaps for a handmade cardigan?)
Go Big
One reason granny squares are such a popular crochet motif is that they can be made in literally any size. So go large! Big ones are just as fun and easy as little ones, and they open up even more project options.
- Pillow covers. Pieced granny square pillow covers are popular, but why not use a couple of big ones for the front and back instead? That means less joining, and therefore less finishing time!
- Hot pads. For obvious reasons, granny squares wouldn’t be very good pot holders. But they can still be used as pads to protect your table/countertop from hot dishes. Cotton is washable and sturdy, but tightly spun wool also works well.
- Mesh bags. A couple of large granny squares sewn together along three sides make a great mesh bag for produce, gym clothes, beach items, and more.
With all those ideas in mind, let’s talk about some ways to up your granny square game!
Colour Play
Granny squares are the perfect canvas for colour! With a little planning and forethought, you can create a ton of different visual effects with the same motif.
- Since granny squares are worked from the center out, they look fabulous in gradients—just grab a set of gradient skeins or mini-skeins! Starting with a light or bright colour and working out towards a darker or more muted colour creates a glow effect, while reversing that creates a sunburst look.
- Curated palettes. While the traditional granny square look is worked in pastels or other bright hues, switching up the hues can change the feel of the project instantly. Try deep jewel tones or muted neutrals, or maybe an unexpected seasonal palette. For more tips on creating your own curated palettes, check out Felicia Lo’s Colour Mastery course at the School of SweetGeorgia.
- Go wild! Granny squares are forgiving. If you feel like being spontaneous, grab a few of your favourite colours or leftovers from your scrap bin and get to work! You might discover colour combos you didn’t realize you’d like. And even if you aren’t happy with a few of them, they’ll blend in with the other squares made in a project of small joined motifs.
Don’t Forget the Fancy Granny Squares!
While this article focuses on the classic granny square, many designers have transformed this beloved technique into an art form of its own. The internet is a treasure trove of floral, architectural, and textured designs. Once you’re comfortable with classic squares, maybe give some of the more complex ones a try. You can even mix and match them with plain squares in pieced projects for a fancier look with only a little extra effort (remember those table runners from earlier?).
I hope this article has left you inspired and ready to take a fresh look at the humble granny square. Don’t be afraid to experiment, play, and have fun! Who knows what creative possibilities you’ll unlock?
Explore our online courses and community of fibre arts makers at the School of SweetGeorgia! Use the code: EXPLORETHESCHOOL to save 15% on an All-Access monthly membership!
Original post publication: November 02, 2023. Refreshed post: June 29, 2024
