How to Crochet the English Garden Granny Square: A Step-by-Step Guide!

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 and tools

This square is made with basic stitches, so you don’t need much to get started.

• Yarn: Savor by Ice Yarns (acrylic, size 4 worsted weight)
• Hook: 6 mm crochet hook
• Scissors
• Optional but helpful: stitch marker
• For finishing: yarn needle (to weave in ends)

A small detail that makes a big difference: you’ll crochet over your yarn tail in the first round, which helps secure the center without extra fuss later.

If you want to follow along with a written pattern, there’s a free version and a printable PDF available:

• free English Garden granny square pattern
• printable PDF pattern

Stitch notes (so the rounds make sense)

This pattern uses classic granny square structure, built from chain spaces:

• Corners: chain-2 spaces (on double crochet rounds) or chain-3 spaces (on single crochet rounds)
• Sides: chain-2 spaces that sit between your corner spaces

Also, you’ll turn your work at the start of each round in this tutorial. That helps keep the square looking even.

Abbreviations used below: ch (chain), sl st (slip stitch), sc (single crochet), dc (double crochet).

Getting started: slip knot and foundation ring

Start with a slip knot, any method you like, then tighten it onto your hook.

Step 1: Chain 3 and join into a ring

1. Ch 3.
2. To count chains, don’t count the loop on your hook. Count the little “V” stitches: 1, 2, 3.
3. Insert your hook into the first chain you made.
4. Hold your yarn tail along your working yarn (so you can crochet over it).
5. Sl st to form a ring.

Step 2: Round 1 setup

• Ch 3 (this counts as your first dc).
• Work 2 dc into the ring (so you have a 3-dc group, counting the ch-3 as dc).

Now you’ll build the classic “four corners” structure using 3-dc groups separated by chain-2 spaces.

Round 1: Create the center and 4 corner spaces

In the ring, work this sequence until you have four 3-dc groups total:

• (3 dc group), ch 2
• (3 dc group), ch 2
• (3 dc group), ch 2
• (3 dc group)

While working, keep crocheting right over your tail so it gets trapped inside the stitches.

Space tip: if the ring feels tight, pinch the ring and slide your stitches back to make room. You want those dc groups sitting neatly beside each other, not stacked.

Join Round 1

To join, you’ll:

• Ch 1
• Join with 1 sc into the top of the starting ch-3 (grab two strands at the top of that chain)

That sc join sits nicely and helps keep the corner space clear.

Round 2: Single crochet corners (sc, ch-3, sc)

Round 2 is a chain-space round built with single crochet stitches.

Start Round 2

• Ch 3
• Turn your work
• Work into the next corner space

Round 2 pattern

For each corner space, make:

• sc, ch 3, sc (all in the same corner space)

Between corners (along the side), you’ll make:

• ch 2, then work into the next corner space

Continue around, repeating corner, then ch-2 to the next corner.

Join Round 2

When you reach the corner where you started:

• Work the final corner so you’re back in position
• Ch 2
• Join with 1 sc into the base area of the starting chain (right under that starting chain area is fine, just make sure you catch more than one strand of yarn at the top)

This join hides neatly in the corner area.

Round 3: Double crochet round (3 dc in spaces, corners are 3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc)

Now you switch to the granny-style dc round.

Start Round 3

• Ch 3
• Turn your work
• In the corner space, work 2 dc (with the starting ch-3, that forms a 3-dc group)

If you like using a stitch marker, pop it into this corner space so it’s easy to spot when you come back around.

Round 3 pattern

• In each side space: 3 dc
• In each corner space: 3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc

That’s it. Keep moving space to space.

Join Round 3

When you get back to your marked corner:

• Remove the marker
• Complete the corner with 3 dc
• Ch 1
• Join with 1 sc into the top of the starting ch-3

A good habit here is to keep your fingers near that corner space so you don’t lose it while joining.

Round 4: Single crochet chain-space round (sc in spaces with ch-2, corners are sc, ch-3, sc)

Round 4 mirrors Round 2, but now you have more spaces along each side.

Start Round 4

• Ch 3
• Turn your work
• In the next space: sc

Round 4 pattern

• Along the sides: sc in each space, with ch 2 between spaces
• At each corner space: sc, ch 3, sc
• After the corner: ch 2 and continue on the side spaces

So the rhythm is “sc, ch 2” across the sides, and “sc, ch 3, sc” at each corner.

Join Round 4

At the end:

• Ch 2
• Join with 1 sc into the base of the starting chain area, catching more than one strand

Round 5 and beyond: repeat Round 3 and Round 4 to grow your square

From here, the pattern is simple and very adjustable. You repeat these two rounds:

• Double crochet round: 3 dc in each space; corners are 3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc
• Single crochet round: sc in each space with ch 2 between; corners are sc, ch 3, sc

Start the next double crochet round (repeat of Round 3 logic)

• Ch 3, turn
• In the corner space: 2 dc
• In every space along the sides: 3 dc
• In corners: 3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc

Keep going until your square is the size you want. You can stop after any dc round if you want a classic granny square edge that’s easy to join in the chain spaces.

A quick “what goes where” table

Size and project tips

• Stop on any solid round: You can finish after any of the solid rounds and it will still match other granny squares.
• Joining-friendly finish: Ending on a dc round leaves clear spaces for joining.
• Bloomscape-style finish option: If you want that lighter, chain-space look, finish with the sc and chain round.

If you enjoy mixing flower squares with plain blocks, you might also like the Daisy Granny Square 2.0 crochet guide or the Zinnia Single crochet granny square pattern.

Joining and finishing options

Once your square is the size you want, you have two main choices: join and keep going, or end off cleanly.

Option 1: Join and continue (keep crocheting)

If you’re continuing into the next round:

• Ch 1
• Join with 1 sc
• Then ch 3, turn, and keep working the next round as established

This is handy if you’re growing the square larger, or if you’re changing colors and want to keep the stitch flow going.

Option 2: Join and end (finish the square)

If you’re done with the square or done with the color:

1. Ch 2
2. Sl st into the top of the starting ch-3 (a small slip stitch join)
3. Ch 1 to secure
4. Cut yarn, leaving a long tail for weaving in
5. Pull the yarn through and tighten
6. Weave in ends with a needle

That long tail makes weaving in easier, especially if you’re joining squares later.

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.