Easy Granny Square Blanket Crochet Tutorial: Striped & Solid Color Options

Updated at: 29/03/2025

Granny squares: the epitome of cozy comfort and timeless crochet charm. Whether you're a seasoned crocheter looking for a quick and satisfying project or a beginner eager to tackle your first larger piece, this tutorial is perfect for you. We'll guide you through creating stunning granny square blankets in both vibrant striped and classic solid color variations, resulting in a beautiful and personalized throw. This versatile pattern allows for endless customization; experiment with your favorite yarn colors and create a blanket that perfectly reflects your style.

This easy-to-follow tutorial breaks down the granny square process into manageable steps, making it accessible to all skill levels. From understanding the basic stitches to assembling the squares into a finished blanket, we'll cover everything you need to know. Ready to embark on your granny square adventure? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Size 8 (5 mm) crochet hook
  • Karen Simply Soft yarn (or similar worsted weight yarn)
  • Yarn needle
Safety Guidelines
  • Use sharp scissors to avoid accidental cuts. Keep them away from your work area when not in use.
  • Always count your stitches carefully at the end of each round to ensure your granny squares are the correct size and shape. An incorrect stitch count can cause significant problems later.
  • Take breaks to avoid eye strain and fatigue, especially when working with small hooks or dark yarn. Proper lighting is also crucial.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Starting the Granny Square

    • magic circle or chain 4.
    • Create a magic circle. Chain 3 (counts as first double crochet).
    • Chain 4, slip stitch to first chain to form a ring. Chain 3.
    Chain 4 Method: Chain 4, slip stitch to first chain to form a ring. Chain 3.Chain 4 Method: Chain 4, slip stitch to first chain to form a ring. Chain 3.
    Starting the Granny Square

  2. First Round

    • Work 2 double crochets in the circle/ring. Chain 2 (corner). Work 3 double crochets in the same space. Repeat chain 2, 3 double crochets around until you have 4 corners. Slip stitch to top of beginning chain 3.
    Round 1: Work 2 double crochets in the circle/ring. Chain 2 (corner). Work 3 double crochets in the same space. Repeat chain 2, 3 double crochets around until you have 4 corners. Slip stitch to top of beginning chain 3.
    First Round

  3. Subsequent Rounds (Solid Color)

    • Turn your work. Slip stitch in the corner space. Chain 3 (counts as first double crochet). Work 2 double crochets in the corner space. Chain 2 (corner). Work 3 double crochets in same space. Chain 1. Repeat around for each side and corner. Slip stitch to top of beginning chain 3.
    • Repeat steps 5 and 6 until desired size is reached (32 rounds for a 31-inch square blanket).
    Repeat steps 5 and 6 until desired size is reached (32 rounds for a 31-inch square blanket).Repeat steps 5 and 6 until desired size is reached (32 rounds for a 31-inch square blanket).
    Subsequent Rounds (Solid Color)

  4. Subsequent Rounds (Striped Color)

    • Turn your work. Slip stitch in the corner space. Chain 3 (counts as first double crochet). Work 2 double crochets in the corner space. Chain 2 (corner). Work 3 double crochets in same space. Chain 1. Repeat around for each side and corner. Slip stitch to top of beginning chain 3.
    • Fasten off the yarn, leaving a tail. Introduce the new color by laying the yarn over the hook and pulling through the next chain space. Chain 3 and continue.
    • Repeat steps 5 and 6 until desired size is reached (32 rounds for a 31-inch square blanket).
    Repeat steps 5 and 6 until desired size is reached (32 rounds for a 31-inch square blanket).Repeat steps 5 and 6 until desired size is reached (32 rounds for a 31-inch square blanket).Repeat steps 5 and 6 until desired size is reached (32 rounds for a 31-inch square blanket).
    Subsequent Rounds (Striped Color)

  5. Finishing

    • Weave in loose ends.
    Weave in loose ends.
    Finishing

Read more: Easy Color Block Crochet Blanket Tutorial for Beginners

Tips

  • Always turn your work after each round to ensure a square blanket.
  • Use a crochet hook size recommended on your yarn label for best results.
  • For striped blankets, the tutorial suggests 6 rows of each main color and 2 rows of the connecting color.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Inconsistent Tension

Reason: Varying tightness of stitches leads to uneven squares and a misshapen blanket.
Solution: Maintain consistent tension throughout by crocheting at a steady pace and using a consistent amount of yarn.

2. Incorrect Starting Chain

Reason: An incorrect chain number will result in squares that are too big or too small, disrupting the overall pattern.
Solution: Carefully count your starting chain to ensure it matches the pattern's requirements.

3. Missing or Extra Stitches

Reason: Skipped or added stitches distort the square's shape and may cause problems when joining.
Solution: Use stitch markers and regularly count your stitches to prevent errors.

FAQs

What size crochet hook should I use?
The hook size will depend on the yarn you choose. Your yarn label will usually recommend a hook size. Generally, a size H/8 (5.0 mm) or I/9 (5.5 mm) hook works well for a standard-weight yarn, but you may need to adjust based on your tension.
How many granny squares will I need for a blanket?
The number of squares depends on the desired blanket size. You can create a sample square and measure it. Then, determine the number of squares needed across and down to reach your target dimensions. Larger blankets will naturally require more squares.
How do I join the granny squares together?
There are several methods for joining granny squares, including the slip stitch join, the single crochet join, and weaving in the ends. The slip stitch join is generally the quickest and least visible method, while the single crochet join creates a more sturdy seam. The tutorial will demonstrate a suitable method.