by Timmy Duncan

Created on: March 16, 2010

The crochet square, often affectionately referred to as ‘the granny square’, is perhaps one of the most easily recognizable shapes in the world of knitting and crocheting. Granny squares are relatively small and perfect for a beginner as way to learn the craft. Granny squares are often used on their own as a decoration, but many people string granny squares together to create a larger project. By stitching granny squares together you can create anything from a scarf, to a sweater, to a patchwork quilt type of afghan.

Granny squares are traditionally worked in a 3 double crochet, although some prefer to use their own technique. For those who are just learning to knit or crochet, the granny square can be the perfect way to ease in to a larger project. Those who are not ready to take on a big blanket or sweater, might instead make several granny squares and then stitch them together to complete their project.

Stitching granny squares together is very easy and there are several different options to choose from. You can either use a sewing technique that you are comfortable with or you can crochet them together as you go. Perhaps the easiest way to do this is to sew the squares together with needle and thread - or yard - as you would any other sewing project. You can use any sewing technique you are comfortable with.

If you want your seam to be highly visible and decorative, you can opt for a cross stitch. For a more inconspicuous seam, you can use a whip stitch or a mattress stitch. Many crocheters prefer using the strong and flexible slip stitch for crochet projects. This stitch offers the crafter a certain versatility. When done with matching yarn blends right in, yet with a contrasting yarn takes on a more decorative appearance. With the crochet hook, enter two overlapped loops. Pull up a loop of the yarn you are using for the seam from below. Enter the next two overlapped loops and pull up a new loop bringing it through the loop on the hook. Repeat the pattern while checking the tension frequently.

Every crocheter has their own personal favorite method of connecting granny squares. Whichever way you choose, make sure to line up the squares as you go, stitch by stitch so that you are not left with uneven squares at the end of your project. This will leave your project looking messy and unfinished.

Resources:

Crochetoholic’s Crochet and Knitting Blog. How to Connect Squares Knit and Crochet. http://crochetoholic.blogspot.com/2008/04/how-to-con nect-squares-knit-and-crochet.html

Renee Blixt. All About the Granny Square: An All-Time Favorite Crochet Technique. Suite 101, December 21, 2007 http://crochet-patterns-techniques.suite101.com/arti cle.cfm/all_about_the_granny_square   

Knitting n Crochet 4 Fun n Profit. Easy granny square crocheting instructions: Beginning crochet stitches http://www.knitting-n-crochet.com/granny-square.html

Crochet Granny Squares – Sewing Together. September 13, 2008. http://www.sewlowdiscountfabrics.com/sewing/crochet- granny-squares-sewing-together

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