You can make a wide variety of items using granny squares. Depending on the size of the granny squares you make, you can craft throws, blankets, pillows, tablecloths, tote bags, ponchos, shawls, purses, hats, scarves, vests, wall hangings, wraps, slippers, headbands and more.
With the right combination of colors, stitches and textures, you can create unique and beautiful items that are sure to be one of a kind. Perhaps the best part is that you can modify the size and shape of the square to fit any of your projects.
You can also mix different effects — whether it be various types of stitches, different textures, more colorful hues, and unusual patterns — to make your project truly unique. So, whether you’re a beginner or an advanced crocheter, granny squares are a great way to express your creativity and make something really special.
Are granny squares in style?
Granny squares are definitely in style! This classic crochet style has seen some modernization over the years, and major fashion designers have—in recent collections—given the granny square an upgrade.
Designers like Burberry, Chanel, and Versace have all featured granny square-inspired pieces in their showrooms, but they’ve added their own perspective and trendiness to the craftsmanship. These updated granny squares have been seen on celebrities such as Gigi Hadid, Kanye West, and Rihanna.
If you recreate the look yourself, you can also easily incorporate the style into modern-day garments like dresses, jackets, coats, and even skirts. The endless possibilities of the traditional granny square and its versatility mean that it’s a style that’s always in fashion.
Why do they call them granny squares?
Granny squares, also known as crochet squares, are often called “granny squares” because they are a type of crocheted project that has seen frequent use by grandmothers (and other family members) over the years.
It is believed that the term “granny squares” originated in the late 1940s to mid-1950s, and is likely the result of a popular quilted look that was seen during that time period.
Granny squares are an incredibly versatile type of crochet project that can be used to create a wide range of projects. They typically consist of an inner square surrounded by a shell or border of some kind.
Granny squares are made with basics stitches, such as a single crochet (sc) or double crochet (dc). With a little bit of creativity, a variety of steps, and materials, granny squares can be used to make afghans, clothing, accessories, and more.
The popularity of granny squares continues to increase due to the nostalgic look they provide and their resemblance to traditional quilts and handmade afghans. The simple nature of the projects also allows for new and experienced crocheters to take part in the fun of creating something unique.
How many granny squares does it take to make a blanket?
The number of granny squares needed to make a blanket will vary depending on the size of each granny square and the desired size of the blanket. Generally speaking, the larger the granny squares and the larger the desired blanket size, the more granny squares will be needed.
For example, if you are making 4-inch granny squares and wanting to create a lap blanket, you would need approximately 9 x 9 granny squares; this equals 81 granny squares. If you wanted to make an afghan size blanket, you would need 13 x 13 granny squares; this equals 169 granny squares.
The same size granny square can also be changed to create a different size throw blanket by changing the number of granny squares used. If you are making a 4-inch granny square, you would need approximately 6 x 9 granny squares to make a throw blanket, which equals 54 granny squares.
The only way to know exactly how many granny squares are needed for a specific project is to plan it out beforehand, decide on the desired sizes of the squares and then do the calculations.
Who invented granny square?
The exact creator of the granny square is unknown, however, it is believed to have evolved from a type of crochet known as ‘solid’ crochet, which dates back to the late 19th century.
The early forms of granny squares typically used small amounts of yarn, which could be stitched together to form a larger item, such as a blanket or shawl.
The basic pattern of the granny square was popularized in the 1940s and 50s in North America as part of a homemaker’s handcraft movement.
During this period, granny squares were often used to create blankets and other items of clothing, which were designed to last for many years.
The granny square has since become a staple of crochet projects, and is often used to create a variety of items such as blankets, bags, hats, and even clothing pieces.
It is a great way to use up small amounts of yarn, as it only requires a few basic stitches.
To this day, it remains one of the most popular crochet techniques, and can be used to create beautiful and unique items.
What is the granny square stitch called?
The Granny Square Stitch is an intricate and eye-catching crochet stitch that dates back to the early 1900s. It is a classic crochet pattern that is often used to make afghans, doilies, and many other items.
The stitch consists of short loops or clusters of double or triple crochet which form the center square and then the outer rounds are worked in half-double crochet with each round offseting itself to make an interesting pattern.
This stitch is often affectionately referred to as the “Granny Square” as the finished pattern resembles the interlocking squares of a quilt. This stitch is versatile enough to make many different projects, from clothing to bags and home decor.
The Granny Square Stitch is easy to learn, making it a great pattern for beginning crocheters to practice.
When were granny square blankets popular?
Granny square blankets have been popular since the early 20th century when they were first used as a way to use up leftover yarn. These colorful and textured blankets were often created by grandmothers, giving them the nickname “granny squares.
” These blankets were often used as bed covers and cold-weather coverlets, as well as for making clothing, such as sweaters and vests. Granny square blankets reached peak popularity in the 1950s, when many people turned to the craft for inexpensive home decorating.
The colorful and intricate patterns of the granny squares made them very fashionable to have in the home, and they were often found in homes throughout the 50s and 60s. After their peak popularity, these blankets waned somewhat, until the 1990s, when a re-emergence of their popularity returned.
In the 21st century, granny square blankets have seen a considerable resurgence in popularity, with people enjoying the comfort and appeal of these handmade pieces. They are often found on beds, couches, chairs, and other furniture.
Additionally, crocheted granny squares often make up the back of handmade quilts and are a popular way to show off a person’s vibrant yarn collection.
What makes a granny square a granny square?
A granny square is a particular type of crochet stitch. It usually has a square shape and is made with a series of chain stitches, slip stitches, and double crochet stitches. Scarves, bags, and more.
The square shape of the granny square is one of the things that makes it so recognizable. It is also often decorated with clusters of chain stitches and slip stitches in various colors, creating a unique and visually interesting design.
Granny squares are a versatile type of crochet stitch and can be used in all sorts of projects, from creating small items such as coasters to larger items like blankets and afghans, and more.
What should a beginner crochet?
If you are a beginner crocheter, there are a lot of great projects you can tackle to get started. Chunky scarves, hats, and cowls are ideal projects because they don’t require a lot of skill and they work up quickly, making them great confidence boosters.
One of the best ways to start learning is to make a simple granny square; it’s just four rounds of basic stitches. Other great projects for starters include keychains, pot holders, phone cases, and maybe even a cute stuffed animal or a beanie! You can start small and work your way up to bigger and more intricate projects.
You will quickly gain the experience and courage to take on more complex projects.
How many chains do you need to start a granny square?
In order to start a granny square, you will need to make four chains. The first two chains will be used to create the foundation of the granny square, and the remaining two chains will form the beginning of the pattern that makes up the granny square.
After the four chains are created, you will then join them together and begin to work your stitches in rounds. Each round builds off the previous round, until you reach your desired size. Granny squares can be made in a variety of sizes, so the amount of chains you need to start a granny square might change depending on the size you’re aiming for.
Do I need to block my crochet blanket?
Yes, it is usually recommended that you block your crochet blanket when you are finished making it in order to help the finished project lay flat and look its best. Blocking involves dampening the fabric with water and then pressing it into place with pins and a pressing cloth.
This helps to even out the stitches and gives the project a crisp, finished look. Blocking can also help to even out any size discrepancies in the blanket as well as soften any stiff fabric. Generally speaking, crochet blankets made of wool or a blend of natural fibers will benefit the most from blocking.
What is the purpose of blocking crochet?
The purpose of blocking crochet is to give your finished project a professional and finished look. Blocking helps shape your stitches, making them look even and neat, while making your project look more even overall.
It also helps to set the pattern and shape, making sure that it looks the way it was intended to look. Blocking can also help to even out any mistakes you made while crocheting. For example, if your stitches start to become distorted or out of line, blocking can help to correct this.
Additionally, if your project has lacy or textured stitches, blocking can help bring out the design, making it much sharper and more visible. It can also be used to give your project a specific size or shape.
Finally, blocking can help preserve the quality of your crochet by giving it extra stability and preventing it from stretching out.
How do you block acrylic granny squares?
To block acrylic granny squares, you will need a spray bottle filled with water, a flat surface (ironing board, bed, etc. ), a ruler, and pins. Start by laying your granny square flat on the surface and use the ruler to measure and make sure all sides of your granny square are even.
Once you have the square even, take the spray bottle and lightly spritz your granny square with water. This will help to smooth out any loose or uneven loops of yarn. From there, take your pins and pin each corner down so that the edges are nice and straight.
Once the pins are in place, leave the granny square to dry completely before removing the pins. This will help the newly blocked granny square to keep its shape.
Should I wash crochet blanket before gifting?
Yes, it is a good idea to wash a crochet blanket before gifting it. This will ensure that the blanket is clean and free of any dirt, dust, or debris. It is also a great way to ensure that the item is safe to use and that it will not cause any allergic reactions.
Furthermore, washing the blanket before gifting will make sure all loose yarn or threads are smoothed out so that the blanket will look its best when it is received. When washing a crochet blanket, it is important to follow the directions on the yarn package or on the washing label attached to the blanket.
If in doubt, you can always hand wash the blanket in cold water or on a gentle cycle in the washing machine. Be sure not to use fabric softener as this can affect the feel of the yarn and how it looks.
Air drying is suggested in order to preserve the shape and integrity of the blanket. Once the blanket is fully dry, it should be ready for gifting.
Do you have to block crochet after every wash?
No, you don’t have to block crochet after every wash. Blocking is only necessary when you are finished working with the yarn and want to give the piece a professional look. Blocking crochet helps to even out the stitches and shape of the piece, as well as bring out any lacy or detailed patterns that the piece may contain.
Depending on what type of yarn you used you may want to perform a light blocking after each wash to ensure your piece continues to maintain its shape, but it is not necessary to do so in order to get a professional looking end result.
Is crochet blocking permanent?
No, crochet blocking is not permanent. Blocking is a process used to permanently shape and size a finished piece in crochet and some other kinds of knitting. The process helps to even out and smooth the fibers and create a more even, professional-looking piece.
Blocking helps pieces to achieve their desired size and shape, but it is not permanent. After blocking, the piece may need occasional reshaping over time as the piece wears or is handled. The best way to ensure your projects maintain their original shape and size is to handle them with care and store them properly in a safe place.
Is it necessary to block knitting?
No, it is not necessary to block knitting. Blocking is an optional step that can be used to refine the finished appearance of a project or piece. Blocking involves wetting or steaming the item and stretching it into shape to achieve a desired shape, size, and symmetry.
Some projects may not need blocking to look good and some may not benefit from the process. So, whether or not to block depends on the individual project and the desired look. Blocking can, however, add structure and smoothness to a project, so it can be a useful technique if one wishes to achieve a defined, professional look.