If you’ve ever saved a granny square on Pinterest and thought, “Okay… which one should I actually start with?” you’re in the right place.
This is a curated list of my favorite granny square patterns...everything from classic squares you can memorize to bold florals, modern geometric designs, and cute motifs that make blankets look anything but basic.
What to Do With Granny Squares
Granny squares are basically crochet LEGO pieces. Once you’ve made a stack, you can turn them into almost anything. If you’re not sure what to make yet, use the ideas below to match your squares to a project (and a vibe).
Easy projects (great if you’re making your first set of squares)
- Throw blanket: the classic choice. Mix 2–6 square designs for a sampler look, or repeat one square for a clean, modern blanket.
- Baby blanket: smaller, faster, and so giftable. Softer colors + simple squares = adorable.
- Pillow cover: a quick win that feels “finished” fast. Two panels of squares + a simple backing = done.
- Wall hanging: perfect for your prettiest floral squares. Add fringe or tassels for a modern boho finish.
Wearables (once you’re comfy with joining)
- Granny cardigan: cozy, beginner-friendly garment construction (it’s mostly rectangles and squares).
- Vest: even easier than a cardigan and super cute layered over a tee.
- Simple pullover: choose a solid or low-hole square for a warmer, less “lacey” fabric.
- Shrug / cocoon: minimal shaping, maximum coziness.
Bags + accessories (fast + practical)
- Crossbody bag: sturdy when lined, and a great way to show off bold squares.
- Tote bag: perfect for scrap yarn and market vibes.
- Pouch / clutch: small = fast. Great gift idea.
- Scarf or wrap: join squares in a long strip, add a border, and you’re done.
Home + seasonal decor
- Table runner: alternating squares + solid spacer rows looks so polished.
- Coasters / mug rugs: use cotton yarn for the best results.
- Garland: hearts, florals, or mini squares strung together for cute seasonal decor.
- Holiday blankets: mix a few themed squares (hearts, flowers, winter motifs) into a larger neutral blanket.
Quick “how many squares do I need?” cheat guide
This varies by square size, but this gives you a helpful starting point:
- Baby blanket (approx. 30" x 36"):
- 6" squares: ~30 squares (5 x 6)
- 8" squares: ~20 squares (4 x 5)
- Throw blanket (approx. 50" x 60"):
- 6" squares: ~80 squares (8 x 10)
- 8" squares: ~48 squares (6 x 8)
- Pillow (approx. 18" x 18"):
- 6" squares: ~9 per side (3 x 3)
Tip: If you’re mixing different square patterns, block them to the same size before joining (it makes everything look cleaner and saves a ton of frustration).
Speaking of blocking, be sure to check out our "mini guide" after the crochet granny square round-up for some tips on both blocking and joining your granny squares.
30 Must-Try Crochet Granny Square Patterns
Below you’ll find a mix of beginner-friendly staples and squares that look extra impressive once you’ve got the basics down. I included a little context for each one so you can quickly decide what to make next—then click through for the full pattern and tutorial.
Wild Popcorn Daisy Granny Square-Free Pattern+Video
Skill: Advanced beginner (you’ll work in joined rounds and do a few color changes)
Why you’ll like it: It has a bright, happy flower center with a clean square finish—and there’s a follow-along video, which makes it really approachable.
Description: If you love floral granny squares but still want something that feels doable (not overly fussy), this wildflower square is a great pick. It starts with a simple center, builds petals with a textured look, then “squares up” nicely so it’s easy to join into blankets, bags, or sampler projects.
The pattern walks you through turning the flower into crisp corners and finishing with a simple border, and the video support is perfect if you like seeing the steps as you crochet.
How to Crochet a Granny Square Bag Step-By-Step
Skill: Beginner–Advanced beginner (granny squares + joining + strap technique)
Why you’ll like it: It’s a modern sling bag made from 11 classic granny squares, and it includes a step-by-step tutorial (plus a quick video) so assembly feels totally doable.
Description: If you want a granny-square bag that feels trendy but still beginner-friendly, this pattern is a great pick. You’ll crochet 11 granny squares, then use a join-as-you-go style approach to seam them into a structured crossbody shape—so it feels like crochet “geometry” in the most satisfying way.
The bag is designed to be just-right for essentials and finishes with a sturdy strap (the pattern includes a Romanian cord strap technique for extra strength) plus simple details like a button closure. It’s also super customizable: add extra rounds to your squares to size it up, go scrappy for a retro look, or keep it tonal for a modern, boutique vibe.
Granny Square Crochet Bag: Free Crochet Pattern
Skill: Advanced beginner–Intermediate (puff stitches + seaming)
Why you’ll like it: It’s a modern, sling-style granny bag made from 15 puff-stitch granny squares, and there’s a step-by-step video to walk you through the squares and assembly.
Description: If you want a granny-square bag that looks trendy and “boutique,” this one is such a good pick. The square itself is worked in the round with puff stitches for a thick, sturdy texture, then finished into a square—so the motifs feel satisfying and substantial (not floppy).
The full bag is assembled by seaming together 15 squares, and the tutorial covers the whole process, including creating the strap and adding neat finishing edges so it looks polished when you’re done. It’s also a great pattern if you like planned color palettes: the designer works it in three colors for that modern, coordinated look.
Bag of Hue Scraps Bag (Crochet)
Skill: Beginner
Why you’ll like it: It’s a granny-square bag that feels trendy and usable, but the construction stays beginner-friendly with clear, step-by-step instructions.
Description: If you’ve been wanting to try a granny square bag but didn’t want anything too complicated, this pattern is a great place to start. It’s designed as a “scrap-friendly” project (especially if you have Bulky weight yarn on hand), and the finished bag is a practical size—about 25 cm tall, 35 cm wide, and 14 cm deep—so it’s roomy enough for everyday use.
Ravelry notes it’s written in US terms and suggests Lion Brand Hue + Me (bulky) with a 6.5 mm (K) hook, so it works up relatively quickly. It’s the kind of project that gives you that satisfying “one square at a time” progress, then comes together into a finished bag that looks modern, colorful, and totally giftable.
Emma Crochet Square Pattern (Look At What I Made)
Skill: Intermediate (but very doable if you’re comfortable working in the round)
Why you’ll like it: It’s a polished, “designer” square with options—there are multiple sizes and you can even stop early if you’re using mini skeins.
Description: This square is such a good pick when you want something that looks detailed and intentional, especially for sampler blankets. The pattern includes small, medium, and large size options with gauge guidance built in, which is amazing if you like consistency across lots of squares.
It’s written with an optional final round, so you can stop at the end of Round 7 without losing the overall look—perfect if you’re working from mini balls or coordinating limited amounts of yarn. It also makes a great “test square” for dialing in hook size and making sure you won’t run short on your accent colors before you commit to a whole set.
Ocean Pals Blanket - Crochet Pattern
Skill: Easy (Beginner-friendly)
Why you’ll like it: It’s a super cute ocean-themed blanket made from adorable sea animal squares, and the pattern is designed to feel “stress-free” with clear guidance.
Description: If you want a granny-square-style project that feels playful (and super giftable), this ocean blanket is such a fun pick. The pattern is built around individual squares that feature sweet sea-creature designs, so you get that satisfying “one square at a time” progress—then everything comes together into a finished blanket.
It’s written to be beginner-friendly, and it includes step-by-step instructions, a materials list, and video tutorials, which is great if you like having extra support while you crochet. This is a perfect choice for a baby blanket, a kid gift, or anyone who loves ocean themes—and since it’s a PDF instant download, it’s easy to start right away.
Free Chunky Granny Square Bernat Blanket Pattern
Skill: Easy
Why you’ll like it: It’s super cozy, works up fast with chunky chenille yarn, and the ends are worked in continuously—so you won’t be stuck weaving in a million tails.
Description: If you want that classic granny-square look but in a modern, extra-squishy way, this pattern is such a fun one to try. It uses Bernat Blanket (super bulky chenille) and a 15 mm hook, so the squares grow quickly and feel instantly cozy.
The square is a tighter “modern granny” style (it swaps in half double crochet and skips the usual chain spaces), which gives you a plush, cloud-like fabric instead of a lacy, holey look. The blanket is made from 20 squares (about 12" x 12" each) arranged in a 4 x 5 layout for a throw-sized finish around 48" x 60" (before edging), and there’s also a video tutorial to walk you through it.
Free Crochet Granny Square Pattern for a Cute Handmade Look
Skill: Beginner
Why you’ll like it: It’s a straightforward, classic granny square tutorial you can use as a “starter square” for basically any granny project.
Description: If you’re looking for a simple, traditional granny square pattern you can whip up quickly (and repeat a bunch of times), this one is an easy option. It walks through a basic square worked from the center outward, making it a good choice for stash-busting and quick makes like blankets, tote bags, and pillows.
It’s also a nice “reset” pattern if you haven’t made granny squares in a while and want something familiar before jumping into florals or textured squares. As always, you’ll get the neatest finish if you block your squares before joining, especially if you’re mixing different patterns in one blanket.
Fountain Flower Crochet Granny Square Pattern Free
Skill: Advanced beginner
Why you’ll like it: It’s a bright, floral granny square with a standout center motif that looks detailed—but it’s only six rounds, so it works up faster than you’d think.
Description: If you want a granny square that instantly feels “special,” this one is such a good pick. The center flower has 8 petals (a tweak from the designer’s original happy flower concept), which gives it a fuller, more dramatic look once it’s squared off. It’s worked in joined rounds from the center, just like many classic granny squares, so it’s a nice step up without being overwhelming.
The finished square is about 4.5" x 4.5", making it ideal for blankets, pillows, bags—or mixing into a sampler afghan when you want a pop of floral texture.
Ravelry: Rainbow Puff Square pattern by Crafty CC
Skill: Intermediate
Why you’ll like it: It’s bright, modern, and textured—plus it uses a tapestry-style approach so you can carry yarn and end up with fewer ends to weave in.
Description: If you want a granny square that looks instantly eye-catching, this one delivers with bold rainbow stripes and puff-stitch details that add a playful, raised texture. Ravelry lists it as an 18 cm square made in DK weight yarn with a smaller hook, which gives it a crisp, polished finish that’s perfect for statement blankets, bags, and colorful sampler projects.
It’s a great choice if you’re ready to try a little colorwork (the pattern is tagged for stripes/colorwork and tapestry crochet), but still want the payoff of a square that feels fun and modern.
How to Crochet a Moss Stitch Granny Square
Skill: Beginner (easy stitch repeat once you get the corners set)
Why you’ll like it: It’s the cozy, modern “linen stitch” look—worked as a granny square—with a super relaxing, mindless rhythm.
Description: If you love the moss stitch (aka linen stitch) and want a granny square that looks a little more modern and textured than the classic cluster style, this tutorial is for you.
It’s built with simple stitches—single crochet + chain spaces—so it’s very beginner-friendly, and the fabric has a nice drape with a clean, woven look. This is a great square for scrap yarn, variegated yarn (the colors pop!), and projects like blankets, pillows, or even an oversized “one big square” blanket if you just keep going.
Free Crochet Sweater Coat In Grannies Pattern
Skill: Easy
Why you’ll like it: It’s a cozy, statement “sweater coat” made with granny-style fabric—warm, bold, and surprisingly approachable.
Description: If you love granny squares but want a project that feels extra wearable (and a little dramatic in the best way), this sweater coat is such a fun pick. Yarnspirations rates it Easy, and the finished look has that cozy, oversized layer-you’ll-reach-for vibe—perfect for throwing on over jeans and a tee.
It’s designed using Red Heart Soft paired with Red Heart Unforgettable, so you get that gorgeous, color-shifting effect without having to juggle a million yarn ends. Bonus: the pattern includes simple finishing touches (like buttons) that make it feel polished and “store-bought,” in a handmade way.
Free Crochet Granny Boxy Cardigan Pattern
Skill: Easy
Why you’ll like it: It’s a wearable granny project with a relaxed, boxy fit—perfect when you want “easy” but still stylish.
Description: This cardigan is such a good next step if you love granny squares but want to turn them into something you’ll actually wear. The shape is intentionally roomy and drapey (more “throw-on-and-go” than fitted), and the airy granny-square fabric makes it feel lighter—great for layering in spring/summer or over a tank on cool evenings. Yarnspirations lists it as Easy, and it uses a mix of familiar stitches plus some simple post stitches for texture, so it feels interesting without being intimidating.
9 Square Granny Throw (Crochet)
Skill: Easy (Beginner+)
Why you’ll like it: It gives you that bold granny-square look with just nine oversized squares, so it feels fast and totally doable.
Description: If you love granny squares but don’t want a long, never-ending motif marathon, this throw is such a satisfying compromise. You only make 9 large squares (each about 30 cm / ~12 in), then join them into a modern, graphic blanket that looks impressive without being complicated. It’s written for beginner-friendly success, and it’s especially fun if you want to play with color placement—go scrappy, keep it tonal, or use high contrast for a statement throw. The pattern is designed with bulky yarn (Hue + Me) and a 10 mm hook, so it works up quickly and has that cozy, chunky finish.
Free Easy Squares Throw Pattern
Skill: Easy
Why you’ll like it: It’s a fast, satisfying granny-square throw that comes together with a surprisingly small number of squares.
Description: If you want that classic granny-square look without committing to hundreds of motifs, this throw is such a smart pick. The pattern is designed so you only need 12 squares to make a bold, eye-catching blanket, which makes it feel achievable even if you’re short on time. It’s a great “weekend win” project, and it’s especially fun if you like playing with color placement for a high-contrast, graphic finish.
Classic Granny Square Crochet Pattern - Hopeful Honey
Skill: Beginner
Why you’ll like it: The go-to granny square everyone should know—easy to memorize and perfect for scraps.
Description: This is the classic, traditional granny square pattern with that timeless “granny cluster” look. It’s quick to learn, works up fast, and is ideal if you’re stash-busting or building a blanket one square at a time. If you’re new to granny squares, start here—once you’ve made a couple, you’ll be able to crochet it without constantly checking the pattern.
Circle to Square Granny Square Tutorial - Free Pattern by Just Be Crafty
Skill: Advanced beginner
Why you’ll like it: A fun way to start with a circle and “square it up” for a standout center.
Description: If you love the look of a round motif but want it to fit neatly into a granny-square project, this one is a perfect pick. The circle center gives you a bold focal point, then the pattern shows you exactly how to transition into crisp corners. It’s a great option for playing with color changes and makes a beautiful block for blankets, bags, and modern granny-style projects.
Sunburst Granny Square
Skill: Advanced beginner
Why you’ll like it: That iconic sunburst look makes even simple color combos feel special.
Description: This sunburst granny square has a bright, flower-like center that looks impressive but is still approachable. It’s a favorite for colorful afghans because each round is a chance to switch colors and create a totally different vibe. If you want your granny squares to feel “extra” without being overly complicated, this is a must-have in your rotation.
Maybelle Square Crochet Pattern
Skill: Intermediate
Why you’ll like it: A beautiful, classic-feeling square that’s a little more unique than basic granny.
Description: The Maybelle Square has a lovely decorative look that feels vintage-inspired and pretty without being fussy. It’s a great choice when you want variety in a sampler blanket or when you’re making something giftable that needs a more detailed feel. This one really shines in soft, coordinated colors—or go bold and let the stitch pattern do the talking.
Circles of the Sun - CAL - Block 1
Skill: Intermediate
Why you’ll like it: A detailed “sun” square that looks stunning with planned color palettes.
Description: This square has that bold, radiant center and the kind of polish you see in crochet-alongs and showpiece blankets. The rounds create a layered, graphic look that’s perfect if you like patterns that feel more design-forward. It’s a fantastic option for a statement afghan, and it looks especially striking when you repeat the same color placement across multiple squares.
Solid Granny Square Crochet Pattern for Beginners
Skill: Advanced beginner
Why you’ll like it: A clean, no-gap option that looks modern and finished.
Description: If you love granny squares but don’t love the holes, this solid version is exactly what you need. The dense stitches create a smooth, structured square that works beautifully for garments (like cardigans and vests) and for blankets where you want a more seamless look. It’s also a great base square for adding borders, color-blocking, or keeping things minimal and modern.
Easy Popcorn Stitch Flower Square
Skill: Advanced beginner
Why you’ll like it: Popcorn stitches add instant texture for a fun, 3D flower center.
Description: This square is all about texture—those popcorn stitches create a raised, petal-like look that stands out immediately. It’s a great way to add variety to a granny square blanket and makes an especially cute choice for pillows or baby gifts where you want extra dimension. If you enjoy tactile stitches and want a square that feels special without being complicated, you’ll love this one.
Tulips from Holland Square
Skill: Advanced beginner
Why you’ll like it: A fun “series” square that’s perfect for sampler blankets and mix-and-match projects.
Description: This is a great block to include when you want your granny square blanket to feel curated and not repetitive. It has that classic afghan-block style—interesting stitches, clear structure, and a look that blends well with other squares. If you’re building a big blanket from lots of different patterns, this one fits right in and adds a little texture and variety.
Heart Granny Square Crochet Pattern
Skill: Advanced beginner
Why you’ll like it: A clear heart motif that’s adorable in two colors.
Description: This heart granny square is perfect for Valentine’s projects, baby blankets, or any gift that needs a sweet touch. The heart design is easy to “see” once it’s finished, which makes it super satisfying—especially when you choose a contrasting heart color. Use it as a feature square in a larger blanket or repeat it for a full-on themed project that feels thoughtful and handmade.
Owl Granny Square Pattern by Repeat Crafter Me
Skill: Advanced beginner
Why you’ll like it: The owl face is instantly recognizable—perfect for playful, giftable makes.
Description: If you’re making something for a kid (or anyone who loves cute themes), this owl granny square is a fun standout. The motif reads clearly, and it’s a great way to turn a simple square project into something character-driven. Add a few owl squares into a blanket, make a themed pillow, or combine it with other animal blocks for a playful sampler.
Metamorphosis Square- a free afghan square pattern
Skill: Intermediate
Why you’ll like it: A bold geometric square that looks totally different depending on your colors.
Description: This is the kind of square that makes people ask, “How did you do that?” The design feels modern and graphic, and it’s perfect for experimenting with color placement—high contrast looks especially dramatic. If you want a more contemporary granny square blanket or you love patterns that feel like “designed” crochet, this one is a great addition.
Mitered Granny Square
Skill: Advanced beginner
Why you’ll like it: The crisp mitered look makes simple colors feel modern and intentional.
Description: This square is a fantastic option if you like clean lines and bold, graphic shapes. The mitered construction gives a strong geometric feel, and it’s especially fun for striping or scrap yarn because the angles make color changes look planned. It works well in modern blankets, bags, and projects where you want structure without a complicated stitch pattern.
Crochet Pattern: Tower Stitch Granny Square
Skill: Intermediate
Why you’ll like it: A textured, stitch-forward square that stands out even in one color.
Description: If you love squares with interesting stitches (and a little “wow” factor), the Tower Stitch granny square is a great pick. The texture creates depth and visual interest, so it doesn’t rely on lots of color changes to look impressive. This one is perfect for sampler afghans, solid-color blankets with texture, or anytime you want your squares to feel elevated and unique.
Marigold Sky Granny Square Pattern
Skill: Intermediate
Why you’ll like it: A floral-inspired square that looks impressive and photographs beautifully.
Description: This square has a gorgeous floral vibe that feels both modern and vintage depending on your colors. It’s a great choice when you want a centerpiece-style granny square that still works well in a repeating blanket layout. Try it in bold “flower + background” contrast for maximum impact, or use softer tones for a cozy, blended look.
Sweetheart Square (Draiguna)
Skill: Intermediate
Why you’ll like it: A detailed heart-style square that feels extra special for gifts.
Description: This sweetheart square is perfect when you want a heart motif that looks a little more intricate and decorative. It’s a lovely option for Valentine makes, wedding or anniversary gifts, and baby blankets with a sweet theme. If you’re building a heart-focused granny square project and want variety beyond the simplest heart blocks, this one adds that “special occasion” feel.
Joining and Blocking Granny Squares (So Your Project Looks Polished)
If your squares look a little wavy, uneven, or “not quite the same size,” don’t worry; that’s totally normal.
The secret to a professional-looking granny square project is blocking first, then joining with a method that matches your style (seamless vs. visible “outline” joins).
Step 1: Block your squares (this is the glow-up step)
Blocking helps your squares:
- flatten (goodbye curl!)
- become the same size
- line up neatly when joined
- look more polished (even if your tension isn’t perfect)
How to block granny squares (simple method):
- Soak or spray your squares with water until damp (not dripping).
- Gently shape each square to the same size.
- Pin corners and edges to a blocking board, towel, or foam mat.
- Let dry completely.
Quick tip: Measure 2–3 squares and pick a finished size you’ll block everything to (example: 6" x 6"). Consistency is more important than the exact measurement.
Want to see blocking it in action?
Step 2: Choose a joining method (pick your vibe)
Different joins create different looks. Here are the most common, plus when to use each:
1) Slip Stitch Join (flat + beginner-friendly)
- Look: clean with a slight ridge
- Best for: modern blankets, quick projects, sturdy bags
- Why it’s great: fast and simple, easy to keep even
2) Single Crochet Join (bold outline / “framed” look)
- Look: a more textured ridge between squares
- Best for: classic granny blankets, high-contrast color layouts
- Why it’s great: strong and adds definition
3) Mattress Stitch (nearly invisible seam)
- Look: very clean and polished
- Best for: garments and projects where you want seams to “disappear”
- Why it’s great: gives a smooth finish and looks pro
4) Join-As-You-Go (less seaming later)
- Look: depends on the method, usually neat and tidy
- Best for: big blankets (so you don’t have a mountain of joining at the end)
- Why it’s great: you finish as you go — no “end-stage dread”
Want to see granny squares being joined in action?
Step 3: Weave ends as you go (future you will be grateful)
If you’re making a lot of squares, try this rule:
- Weave ends after every 3–5 squares, not at the very end.
It keeps your project feeling fun and prevents that dreaded “100 ends” finish line.
Try a No-Sew Join in Tunisian Crochet (Join-As-You-Go & Entrelac Patterns)
If you love the idea of granny squares, small pieces that turn into a bigger project, but you hate the finishing step, you’ll probably love Tunisian join-as-you-go.
It gives you that same modular, satisfying progress… but your pieces come together as you crochet, so you’re not stuck doing a huge seaming session at the end.
Here are a few ICCT patterns and resources to explore next:
- Frosted Star Tunisian Crochet Blanket (Entrelac): A starry look that feels like a showpiece blanket; perfect if you want something modern and eye-catching without doing a big seaming session at the end.
- Tunisian Crochet Entrelac Blanket (Entrelac): Entrelac gives you that woven, “patchwork” vibe that granny-square lovers tend to adore; lots of visual interest, and it builds in a way that keeps you motivated as you go.
- Dorm Sweet Dorm Blanket (Looks Like Squares, Made in Strips): This one looks like it’s made from squares, but it’s actually worked in strips. The self-striping yarn does the magic and creates that blocky, patchwork effect with way less fuss.
Conclusion
Granny squares are one of the most fun ways to crochet because you can make “just one more” and suddenly you’ve got a whole pile of possibilities.
Whether you’re going classic, floral, modern, or super textured, the best part is that you can mix and match squares until the project feels exactly like you, then turn them into a blanket, bag, cardigan, or the cutest gift ever.
Before you start joining, don’t forget the two steps that make everything look instantly more polished: block your squares to the same size, then pick a joining method that matches the look you want (seamless, outlined, or totally invisible).
And if you’re the “I love the square-making part but not the sewing part” type, definitely check out the Tunisian join-as-you-go patterns above for a satisfying, no-sew finish.
