Crochet the Dirty Granny Square: A Fun & Easy Secret Stitches Project

Have you ever wanted to crochet something that's both easy and a little bit quirky? Get ready to create the Dirty Granny Square a delightful addition to the Secret Stitches CAL 2021! This project, guided by Christa from The Secret Yarnery, is perfect for beginners and seasoned crocheters alike.

In this blog post, I'll walk you through each step of creating this unique granny square. The best part? It features an easy one-row repeat and a memorable "martini" design, complete with glasses and olives! So, grab your hook and yarn, and let's get started.

Before we jump in, you'll need to gather your materials. I'll provide a detailed list in the next section. If you're new to the Secret Stitches CAL, don't worry! You can easily catch up on the other blocks we've already finished. You can find the complete playlist on the Secret Yarnery's YouTube channel. Plus, there's a written pattern available on secretyarnery.com for those who prefer a printed guide. Let's dive in and create something amazing together!

Now that you have all your materials, let's get started! The first step is to create the foundation chain for your Dirty Granny Square.

1. Slip Knot: Start by making a slip knot on your hook. There are many ways to make a slip knot, so use whichever method you're most comfortable with.
2. Chain 40: Next, chain 40 loosely. It's important to chain loosely, or use a larger hook, to prevent your square from becoming too tight and distorted.
3. Placing Stitch Markers: This step is crucial for maintaining the pattern. On the back of your chain, you'll notice "camel bumps" or back loops. Place a stitch marker in the back loop of every 8th chain. Accurate placement of these stitch markers is essential for the rest of the pattern.
4. Chain 1 More: After you've chained 40 and placed your stitch markers, chain one more at the end, without a stitch marker. This extra chain will help to create a clean edge for your square.

The reason we need 40 chains is to create the base for our pattern of "martini glasses" and "olives."

Row 1 is where the magic happens! This row sets the foundation for the "Dirty Martini" design that makes this granny square so unique.

1. Locating the Sixth Chain: Find the sixth chain from your hook and work into the back loop. If working into the back loops is too difficult, you can work into the front loops as an alternative.
2. Creating the "Glass": To create the "glass" element, work 2 double crochets (dc), chain 2, and then 2 more double crochets, all in the same stitch.
3. Skipping Chains: Skip exactly three chains between each element. This is important for maintaining the correct spacing and pattern.
4. Creating the "Olive": To create the "olive" element, work 5 double crochets all into the same stitch.
5. Repeating the Pattern: Repeat the "glass" and "olive" sequence across the row, using your stitch markers as a guide. Remove the stitch markers as needed.
6. End of Row 1: Finish the row with a single double crochet in the last chain.
7. Pattern Check: Before moving on, check your work to ensure that you have alternating "glasses" and "olives" across the row. The row should start and end with a "glass."

If you accidentally add or skip chains, don't worry! It happens to the best of us. Just take a deep breath and count your stitches regularly to maintain accuracy.

Row 2 builds upon Row 1, continuing the pattern and bringing your Dirty Granny Square to life.

1. Chain 3 and Turn: Chain 3 and turn your work. The chain 3 counts as a double crochet.
2. Repeating "Glass into Glass" and "Olive into Olive": The pattern for Row 2 is simple: crochet a "glass" into the chain-2 space of the "glass" from the previous row, and an "olive" into the center stitch of the "olive" from the previous row. This is a repeat for the entire row.
3. Finding the Center Stitch: To easily locate the center stitch of the "olive," count the stitches. It should be the third stitch.
4. End of Row 2: Finish the row with a double crochet into the top of the chain-3 from the beginning of the previous row.

Double-check your stitch counts periodically to avoid any mistakes. Repeat row 2 to your desired size.

Row 3 and beyond are where this pattern truly shines. Row 3 is a repeat of Row 2, making the pattern easy to memorize and incredibly relaxing. I personally love how easy this is to follow, if you are more of a visual learner, there are also many crochet patterns that may give you ideas.

Simply continue crocheting "glass into glass" and "olive into olive" for each row. This repetitive motion can be quite meditative, allowing you to unwind while creating something beautiful.

Feel free to get creative and customize your square by changing colors every few rows. This can add a unique touch to your project and make it even more eye-catching.

To ensure that your square is the correct size, check the gauge regularly and adjust your hook size if needed. As a reference, I worked 19 rows in my video to achieve the desired size. Repeat rows 2 and 3 until you reach the same height as your other CAL squares.

The last row adds a decorative border to your Dirty Granny Square, giving it a polished and finished look.

1. Chain 1 and Turn: Chain 1 and turn your work.
2. Single Crochet, Chain 2, Chain 3 Pattern: Follow this pattern: single crochet (sc) in the first stitch, chain 2, single crochet in the chain-2 space of the "glass," chain 3, single crochet in the center stitch of the "olive," chain 3, and repeat.
3. End of Last Row: Finish the row by chaining 2 after the last single crochet into the "glass," and then single crochet into the top of the chain-3 from the previous row.
4. Finishing Off: Chain 1, cut the yarn, pull the loop through, and tighten to secure.
5. Weaving in the Ends: Use a darning needle to weave the ends securely into the back of your work.

Maintaining consistent tension is key to creating a neat and even border. Take your time and enjoy the process!

Blocking is an important step that helps to improve the shape and stitch definition of your granny square. There are two common methods for blocking:

• Wet Blocking: Soak the square in water, gently squeeze out the excess, and pin it to a blocking board.
• Steam Blocking: Use an iron to steam the square into shape.

For best results, I recommend using a blocking board with pins to ensure that your square maintains its shape while drying. Blocking can make a big difference in the overall appearance of your finished project, so don't skip this step!

Once you've crocheted several granny squares, you'll need to join them together to create a larger project, such as a blanket or bag. There are several methods for joining granny squares, each with its own unique look and feel. Here are a few popular options:

• Single Crochet Join: A simple and sturdy join that creates a visible seam.
• Whip Stitch Join: A delicate join that creates a subtle seam.
• Flat Braid Join: A decorative join that adds texture and visual interest.
• Invisible Join: A seamless join that hides the seam altogether.

The best joining method for your project will depend on your personal preferences and the desired look of your finished piece.

Proper care will help to ensure that your crochet project lasts for years to come. Here are some general guidelines for washing and drying your crochet items:

• Washing: Hand wash or machine wash on a delicate cycle.
• Drying: Lay flat to dry.

Be sure to check the yarn label for specific care instructions, as different fibers may require different treatment.

I'd love for you to join The Secret Yarnery community! It's a wonderful place to connect with other crocheters, share your projects, ask questions, and find inspiration.

• Facebook Group: Join The Secret Yarnery Crochet Community Facebook group to share photos of your finished Dirty Granny Squares and connect with other crocheters.
• Instagram: Follow The Secret Yarnery on Instagram for project photos, behind-the-scenes content, and inspiration.
• Website: Visit secretyarnery.com for additional patterns, tutorials, and resources.

Share your finished Dirty Granny Squares on social media using the hashtag #SecretYarneryCAL or #DirtyGrannySquare so we can celebrate your creativity! The Secret Yarnery Community is a great place to ask questions if you're working on this project, or you can browse the blog for an easy crochet granny square tutorial.

Want to continue your adventure with the Secret Stitches CAL 2021? Here are some of the other blocks you can crochet:

• [Block 1](YouTube Link)
• [Block 2](YouTube Link)
• [Block 3](YouTube Link)
• [Block 4](YouTube Link)
• [Block 5](YouTube Link)
• [Block 6](YouTube Link)
• [Block 7](YouTube Link)
• [Block 8](YouTube Link)
• [Block 9](YouTube Link)
• [Block 10](YouTube Link)

Complete all the blocks in the CAL to create a beautiful sampler blanket!

I hope you enjoyed this tutorial on how to crochet the Dirty Granny Square! It's a fun and easy project that's perfect for adding a touch of whimsy to your crochet creations. Remember, you can grab the Granny squares collection to take your new skills even further. Happy crocheting, and stay hooked!