How to Crochet the English Garden Granny Square: A Step-by-Step Guide!
Crochet enthusiasts, are you ready to add a stunning new square to your repertoire? Today, we're diving into the English Garden Granny Square—a versatile, solid-block granny square that’s perfect for any project. Whether you're adding it to a blanket, a cushion cover, or joining it into a Bloomscape CAL, this pattern is a must-try. The instructions are designed to be beginner-friendly and are brought to you by The Secret Yarnery. But don’t worry—experienced crocheters will enjoy the straightforward elegance of this square too.
Let’s get started on this journey and learn how to create this gorgeous granny square step by step!
What Is an English Garden Granny Square?
An English Garden Granny Square is a visually delightful crochet block known for its simplicity and adaptability. Unlike traditional granny squares with flower centers, this one is a solid square, which makes it incredibly versatile. You can make it in any size or color of your choosing.
Whether paired with other granny square designs or used alone, this crochet project offers endless possibilities. Want to match it with your other squares? That’s easy. Just finish it off on a solid row for seamless joining. Creating something for the Bloomscape CAL? You’ll finish on the chain and single crochet row.
What You'll Learn in This Tutorial
The English Garden Granny Square tutorial guides you through building something beautiful from scratch, all with simple steps. Some of the techniques covered include:
- Forming a slip knot
- Chaining
- Mastering double crochets
- Learning single crochet joins
- Understanding how to build the square row by row
It’s perfect for beginners who want to learn and grow in their crochet skills. If you're experienced, you'll appreciate the precision and clear guidance that makes this square a joy to create.
Looking for inspiration on more granny squares? Check out the Granny Squares & Shapes on the Secret Yarnery website.
Materials Needed for the Project
Before diving into your granny square, it’s essential to have the right materials at hand. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Yarn: I recommend using Savor from Ice Yarns. It’s a size 4 worsted weight acrylic yarn that’s ideal for this project due to its ease of use and durability.
- Crochet Hook: A 6-millimeter crochet hook is perfect for maintaining the right tension.
- Scissors: Have a sharp pair of scissors ready to cut the yarn cleanly when you’re finished.
Gather these materials before starting to ensure a smooth creative experience.
Where to Find the Written Pattern
If you prefer working with written instructions, you’ll love the plain English pattern available at The Secret Yarnery. It’s designed to feel as if Christa is sitting right beside you as you crochet, guiding you through each stitch. A written pattern can be a great companion to the tutorial video.
Setting Up Your Workspace
Before starting, find a comfortable place to work with good lighting. Organize your supplies—place your yarn, hook, scissors, and any stitch markers you might need within easy reach. This helps you maintain focus and enjoy the process without interruptions.
Step 1: Making a Slip Knot
Every crochet project begins with a slip knot. To create yours, follow these steps:
- Hold your yarn in your hands and loop it to make the knot.
- Gently pull the loop to tighten and place it securely onto your crochet hook.
Pro tip: Keep the loop slightly loose for better control as you start chaining. It’s easy, intuitive, and sets the foundation for your stitches to come.
Step 2: Starting the First Chain
Chain three. Yes, it’s that simple! These initial chains form the foundation of your granny square. Remember to count the little "V" shapes as you chain to avoid making extra ones by accident. Consistency in these stitches ensures that your square develops properly as you move through the rows.
Step 3: Building the Center Ring
To form the ring, you'll slip stitch back into the first chain. This creates a secure circle where the square's foundation begins. Holding your yarn tail along the working stitches is crucial here—it allows you to crochet over it and keeps your work neat.
The Stitch Pattern: Double Crochets and Corners
Once your ring is formed, you’ll move into the first round featuring sets of double crochets. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Work three double crochets into the ring.
- Chain two to form a corner.
- Repeat until you have a complete square with four corners.
This combination of stitches creates the iconic granny square structure.
Want more pattern inspiration? Take a look at Color Changing Granny Square 2.0 for creative ways to add visual interest to your projects.
Joining Rounds with Single Crochet
At the end of each round, you’ll join with a single crochet to keep the square neatly connected. This step ensures your square remains firm with clean lines. To enhance your joining technique, make sure your hook passes under two strands of the chain.
Expanding the Square
To make the square larger, repeat the simple pattern of working double crochets into each space along the side and building corners with "three double crochets, chain two, and three double crochets" in the corner spaces. You can continue this pattern until your square is the perfect size for your project.
Fun fact: This granny square pairs perfectly with other patterns in the Granny Squares Collection.
Final Tips: Finishing and Joining
If you’re incorporating this square into the Bloomscape CAL, finish on the chain and single crochet row. For other designs, wrapping up on a regular double crochet row ensures compatibility. To seal your work, leave a long tail for weaving in, cut the yarn, and snug it tight.
Why You'll Love This Design
The English Garden Granny Square is perfect for anyone looking for a quick, customizable project. Its clean aesthetic and the ability to adapt it to any project make it a favorite among crocheters. Plus, mastering the pattern will give you skills that can be used across various crochet projects.
For new crochet beginners, explore Easy Crochet Projects for Beginners: Start Today! for ideas to help you grow your confidence.
Conclusion
Crocheting the English Garden Granny Square is more than just a project—it’s an enjoyable experience that enhances your skills while creating something beautiful. Whether you're adding it to an existing collection of granny squares or making a one-off piece, this pattern is guaranteed to bring joy to your crafting time.
Now, grab your hook, yarn, and let’s get started! Stay inspired, keep learning, and don’t forget to share your creations. Happy crocheting!
FAQs
1. Can beginners make the English Garden Granny Square?
Yes! This pattern is designed to be beginner-friendly. With step-by-step guidance in the tutorial, even those new to crochet can easily follow along and complete the square.
2. What type of yarn works best for this pattern?
Worsted weight (size 4) acrylic yarn is ideal for the English Garden Granny Square. It’s easy to work with and holds the pattern’s shape well. Savor yarn from Ice Yarns is a great choice, but you can use any comparable yarn you prefer.
3. How can I change the size of the square?
To make your square larger, simply continue the pattern by repeating rounds. Work double crochets in the sides and build corners with "3 double crochets, chain 2, and 3 double crochets" in each corner space.
4. Can I use this square for other projects besides the Bloomscape CAL?
Absolutely! This square is incredibly versatile. You can incorporate it into blankets, cushion covers, bags, or any project where granny squares are used. Its clean and solid design pairs well with other square patterns.
5. How do I join this square with other granny squares?
The final single crochet row or double crochet row makes it easy to join with other pieces. You can use methods like whipstitch, slip-stitch joins, or continuous join-as-you-go techniques.
6. Where can I find the written pattern for this square?
The written pattern is available on The Secret Yarnery's website. It’s a great companion to the video tutorial, offering clear and concise instructions.
7. What crochet hook size should I use?
A 6-millimeter crochet hook is recommended to keep the proper tension. However, you can adjust it based on your yarn type and personal tension preference.
8. How long does it take to complete one square?
The time required depends on your skill level and the square’s size. For beginners, one square might take about an hour, while experienced crocheters can complete it faster.
9. Are there other granny square variations I can try?
Of course! The Secret Yarnery offers a wide range of granny square patterns, including floral and color-changing designs. Check out Granny Squares & Shapes Collection for more inspiration.
10. What is the Bloomscape CAL?
The Bloomscape CAL (Crochet-Along) is a group project where crocheters work on a themed set of squares. The English Garden Granny Square is one of the featured patterns and fits beautifully into this collaborative project.
Christa Patel is the talented creator behind The Secret Yarnery, a beloved resource for crochet enthusiasts worldwide. Known for her clear tutorials and approachable teaching style, Christa has inspired thousands of crocheters, from total beginners to seasoned experts. She specializes in creating fun, easy-to-follow patterns that bring beauty and joy to everyday life.
Christa’s love for crochet is evident in every project she designs. Her mission is to make crochet accessible to everyone, regardless of skill level. Whether she's guiding someone through their very first slip knot or helping advanced crafters refine their techniques, Christa’s instructions feel like she’s sitting right beside you.
Her focus on creativity, precision, and versatility has made Christa a name synonymous with quality patterns and tutorials. Through The Secret Yarnery, she offers a variety of resources, including:
- Step-by-step video tutorials on YouTube, helping visual learners master their craft.
- Written patterns that cater to all skill levels, available on her website.
- Colorful crochet projects and inspirational designs to spark creativity in others.
When Christa isn’t crocheting, she’s sharing craft tips, cultivating a vibrant online community, and spreading her passion for yarn one stitch at a time. If you’re a crochet lover, following along with Christa’s projects is a must!
For more of her designs, tutorials, and inspiration, visit The Secret Yarnery.