Granny squares are an ideal way for someone new to crocheting to begin, offering them a simple, easy way to create something fun. These square pieces of fabric which are crocheted before being joined to other squares are now available in what is called a granny square deck – essentially a deck of cards containing a variety of designs which can be mixed and matched.
How are granny square cards used?
Each card features a granny square, with a photograph on the front and the crochet stitch chart required to make it on the back. Known as ‘grannies’, each square has a different design, allowing beginners to easily get started on a crochet project.
The cards measure 10x10cm and come with a booklet. They can be laid out before you start, allowing you to see how your finished project might look and can be easily moved around for the best colour and pattern combinations.
Granny squares are ideal for making a crochet blanket and there are a wide variety of crochet blanket kits available from suppliers such as Wool Couture which include yarn, hooks and colour packs.
On Trend
Despite their name, granny squares are having a bit of a moment. According to the UK Hand Knitting Association, celebrities including Sam Ryder and Taylor Swift wearing cardigans made from granny squares have made them fashionable again. The article shows a number of ideas for granny square cardigans, from cropped to the waist to long in a Joseph and his Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat style.
Timeless Craft
The pattern of a basic granny square is easy to learn and also to memorise, which is why they are so popular with newbie knitters. And they look good whichever type of hook or yarn is used.
Because of the huge variety of colours, patterns and sizes, granny squares are very versatile and can be used to make virtually anything or accessorise an existing outfit. They only take about half an hour on average to make, so the sense of satisfaction you’ll get from knitting one is huge.
