Year of the Granny CAL 2026: Stress-Free CAL for Scrap Yarn!

Year of the Granny CAL 2026: A Stress-Free Crochet Along for Scrap Yarn!

“If you are looking for a stress-free, easy, no-pressure crochet along, this is for you.”

That’s exactly how I’m running the Year of the Granny for CAL 2026, featuring free crochet patterns for super easy and fun granny square projects, granny stitch projects, and crochet blanket patterns. Perfect for all skill levels from beginners to experts, you get to decide what you want to make and what you want to skip. No catching up guilt, no deadlines, no pressure.

Most Sundays, I’ll have a new free pattern tutorial ready, so you can pop in weekly and see what we’re working on. If you like being prepared (same), I also email my newsletter list every Thursday with what’s coming on Sunday and the materials you’ll need for the next free pattern, so you can have everything ready when the tutorial drops.

What the Year of the Granny CAL 2026 looks like

This crochet along is built for real life. Some weeks you’ll crochet blanket patterns. Some weeks you’ll rest. Some weeks you’ll binge three projects because you’re on a roll.

While this is primarily a crochet event, it appeals to fans of knitting and crochet who also enjoy our free knitting patterns.

Here’s the basic flow:

• New free patterns almost every Sunday: granny squares, blanket patterns, and granny stitch projects all year.
• Optional every week: you can do every project, or only the ones you love.
• Newsletter on Thursdays: I send what’s coming up and what to gather, so Sunday feels easy.

If you want a refresher on my granny square method, I also have a detailed written free pattern you can keep open beside you while you crochet: https://secretyarnery.com/blogs/blog/how-to-crochet-a-granny-square-easy-step-by-step-beginner-pattern

The scrap yarn challenge that runs all year (and turns into a blanket)

Here’s the part I’m really excited about: as part of Year of the Granny, I’m challenging you to make granny squares from your yarn scraps all year long using this free pattern.

The idea is simple:

Every time you use a new color or a new type of yarn in 2026, make one granny square from it.

Not every ball, not every skein, not a whole blanket’s worth. Just one square to represent that yarn. If you used eight balls of the same color for one blanket, you still only need one square for that color. But if you changed colors, make a square for each color you used.

By the end of CAL 2026, you’ll have a stack of memories in yarn form, and you can turn it into a crochet throw, textured blanket, or square blanket (or keep the squares for another project) following the free pattern.

Keep natural fibers and acrylics separate

This matters for washing and care, especially with high-quality yarns.

If you crochet with natural fibers and acrylics (or other synthetics), keep those squares separate:

• Natural fiber squares: join them with natural fiber yarn.
• Acrylic or synthetic squares: join them with acrylic yarn.

That way, you can wash each finished blanket properly and easily without worrying about different fibers behaving differently.

My prep rules for consistent squares (even with random scraps)

Scrap projects can get messy fast, so I keep two rules that make everything behave. These prep rules align perfectly with the free pattern for consistent results.

1) Use the same hook size all year

I’m using a 6 mm crochet hook for all of my granny squares, all year long.

Even if my scrap yarn is thinner or thicker, I still use crochet hooks of the same size so my squares stay the same size and behave better when it’s time to join.

If you need crochet hooks or other yarn accessories, this is the one I linked in the video description: 6mm crochet hook

2) Decide on a “backup” yarn for tiny scraps

Sometimes a scrap is too small to finish the size square you’re making. That’s normal, especially in a year-long scrap project that follows the free pattern.

My plan: I’m making three-round granny squares, and if I run out of scrap yarn before I finish round three, I switch to white yarn to complete the square. You can use black, beige, or any color you have lots of. The goal is consistency.

My granny square setup (simple, sturdy, and wash-friendly)

You can use any granny square pattern you like, but here’s the free pattern setup I’m using for my Year of the Granny CAL 2026 squares. This versatile approach works great for blanket patterns and stands up well to washing.

I start with a chain-3 ring (not a magic ring)

I do this because I don’t want the center coming apart later. In the washing machine, big blankets get pulled and stretched, and those centers can take a lot of tension.

This is my start:

• Chain 3
• Slip stitch into the first chain to form a ring
• Hold the tail and crochet over it as I work, so I don’t have to sew in that center tail later

My basic square structure

This follows the classic Granny's Favorite Afghan style for a timeless look.

• Corners: chain 2
• Sides: granny stitch (sets of 3 double crochets)

If you want my version that focuses on clean joins and tidy color changes, this free pattern walks through it in detail:
https://secretyarnery.com/blogs/blog/easy-crochet-granny-square

These squares are perfect for afghan patterns or any blanket patterns you have in mind.

My join at the end of a round (so the chain doesn’t show)

This is one of my favorite little tricks. When I finish the round, instead of a regular join that leaves a visible “step” up the side, I do this:

• Chain 1
• Single crochet into the top of the starting chain
• Chain 2 (I keep these chains short so the edge stays flat and not lumpy)

If I’m not changing colors, I don’t bother turning my work. I keep all my stitches on the same side.
If you are changing colors, I recommend turning each round so your square stays balanced.

If you want a full beginner-friendly version that focuses on keeping the square flat with a hidden join, this free pattern is a great reference:
https://secretyarnery.com/blogs/blog/no-seam-no-twist-granny-square-%F0%9F%92%A5-how-to-crochet-a-granny-square-for-beginners

What I do when a scrap runs out (magic knot + finish with the backup yarn)

When my scrap yarn gets too short to keep going, especially on larger blanket patterns, I switch to my backup yarn (white). I join it with a magic knot and keep crocheting, hiding the knot inside a stitch so it disappears.

This free pattern is how I tie it:

1. Wrap the new yarn around the old yarn and tie a regular knot.
2. Wrap the old yarn around the new yarn and tie a regular knot.
3. Pull the working yarn strands so the two knots slide together and lock.
4. Cut the tails close to the knot.
5. Crochet a bit more and nudge that knot into a stitch so it doesn’t sit out in the open.

Of course, you can always leave tails and weave them in instead. I just like this method for scrap projects using this free pattern because it keeps me moving toward my crochet throw.

Join-as-you-go granny square joining (the way I’m using for CAL 2026)

You can join all your squares at the end of the year, or you can join as you go for your crochet throw. I’m showing join-as-you-go because it’s easy, it’s tidy, and it keeps your pile of squares from becoming a mountain. This technique works great in free patterns like my Star Blanket, Wildflower Blanket, and Linen Stitch Blanket.

Before joining, I always check one thing:

Make sure the “pretty V stitches” are facing up. That’s the front. The back looks flatter and less defined.

Also, when I join, I place the finished square on top, and I work into it from the square underneath. It keeps everything lined up.

Joining one side (your first row)

For the first two squares in this free pattern, I join on one side only. I crochet three sides of my last round, then I join the fourth side as I crochet it.

Here’s the joining rhythm I follow:

1. With the finished square on top, start at the corner space.
2. Slip stitch into the corner space of the square on top to join (this slip stitch counts like part of your corner chain).
3. On the square you’re working on, crochet 3 double crochets into the corner space.
4. Move to the next space, slip stitch into the matching space of the square on top.
5. Crochet 3 double crochets into the next space of the square you’re working on.
6. Repeat slip stitch (top square), 3 double crochets (working square) across the side.
7. At the corner, crochet 3 double crochets into the corner of your working square.
8. Slip stitch into the corner space of the square on top, then chain 1 (together, that gives me my corner chain 2 effect).
9. Slip stitch to join to the top of the chain, chain 1 to secure, then cut yarn with a long tail.

I keep my slip stitches snug. If they’re loose, the join looks floppy.

Starting a second row (the “kitty-corner” trick)

When I start a new row in this free pattern, I don’t join straight into the nearest corner if I have a choice. I join kitty-corner, meaning the opposite corner.

That small change keeps the corner join tighter and neater, especially as the blanket patterns grows.

So when you begin a new square for the second row:

• Crochet your square until you’re ready to join.
• Join into the opposite corner space of the square you’re attaching to.
• Then keep joining space by space the same way as the first row.

Joining on two sides (the skill you need for building the blanket)

Once you’re building a grid of blanket patterns, you’ll often join a new square to two sides at once for your crochet throw.

For this free pattern, I crochet the new square until I’ve completed the sides that won’t be attached, then I join the remaining sides as I work.

This is the flow I use:

1. Slip stitch and chain 1 into the first corner (so the corner has two “chain spots”).
2. Crochet 3 double crochets into the corner of the square I’m working on.
3. Slip stitch into the next matching space of the square already joined.
4. Crochet 3 double crochets into the next space of the square you’re working on.
5. At the corner, crochet 3 double crochets, then slip stitch kitty-corner into the corner space of the square you’re joining to, then chain 1.
6. Finish the corner on your working square with 3 double crochets into that same corner space.
7. Continue slip stitching into each space of the joined squares, and working 3 double crochets into your square spaces.
8. Keep your slip stitches small with a bit of tension.
9. Finish the last corner, slip stitch to join, chain 1 to secure, then cut yarn and leave a tail.

If you run out of yarn mid-join, it happens. Join a new yarn and keep going. If you want another option beyond the magic knot, I also have a full tutorial on joining a new ball of yarn for crochet blanket patterns and free crochet patterns:
https://secretyarnery.com/blogs/blog/crochet-class-15-how-to-join-a-new-ball-of-yarn-1

Finishing: tails, needles, and keeping it simple

Following this free pattern, at the end of each square (and each join), I cut my yarn and leave a tail long enough to sew in later. When I’m ready to complete the free pattern squares, I use a yarn needle and weave the tails in neatly. For the best results, choose high-quality yarns to ensure these finishing tails weave in smoothly.

These are the needles I linked in the video description, essential yarn accessories: sharp tip needles for weaving in ends

And if you’re stocking up on crochet hooks, this is the yarn link I shared too: yarn for crochet projects

How to follow along with the Year of the Granny in 2026

If you want to keep up with CAL 2026, the Secret Yarnery YouTube channel offers free crochet patterns, knitting and crochet tutorials, and free knitting patterns. These links from the video description are a good starting point:

• Subscribe to the Secret Yarnery YouTube channel for the latest free pattern
• Join the channel membership
• Grab the free pattern crochet cheat sheet
• Browse left-handed crochet tutorials

Left Handed?

Conclusion

The Year of the Granny is my favorite kind of crochet along because it’s relaxed, practical, and it turns everyday scraps into something you’ll actually use. If you make one square per color or yarn type you touch during CAL 2026, you’ll end the year with a blanket that tells your whole crochet story.

Try the join-as-you-go method, keep your hook size the same, and don’t stress when a scrap runs out. That’s part of it. If you give it a try, tell me how it went, and share any tips you’ve found. I’m always collecting the good ones.

For more inspiration on crochet throws, blanket patterns, and afghan patterns, check out these favorites: the Town Square Throw, Sea Scales Throw, Warm Stripes Throw, Heart Warmer Blanket, Bunny Hop Blanket, Basket Rib Throw, Lace Chevron Columns, Outer Dimensions Blanket, Double Diamond Throw, Criss Cross Throw, and Braided Chain Throw. Grab the free pattern and stay hooked.

FAQs

1) Do I have to crochet every week to participate?

No. I designed this CAL to be optional and stress-free. You can do every project, skip weeks, or jump back in anytime without “catch up” pressure.

2) Is the Year of the Granny CAL beginner-friendly?

Yes. If you can chain and double crochet (or you want to learn), you can do this. I keep the projects simple, and you can use the granny square method and written patterns alongside the tutorials.

3) What if I miss a Sunday tutorial?

Nothing bad happens. You can watch later, do a different project that week, or just rest. This is a year-long CAL, so you have lots of time.

4) How do I join the CAL?

Just follow along on YouTube when the tutorials drop. If you want a heads-up each week, join my email newsletter so you know what’s coming and what to gather.

5) Do I need specific yarn for the scrap yarn challenge?

No. Use what you have. The goal is to make one granny square each time you use a new yarn color or yarn type in 2026. It’s a memory-blanket made from real projects.

6) What size should my granny squares be?

I’m making three-round granny squares and keeping them consistent by using the same hook size all year (I’m using 6 mm). Your squares can be bigger or smaller, but pick one plan and stick with it.

7) What if my scrap yarn is too small to finish the square?

That’s normal. I use a “backup” yarn (mine is white) to finish the last round if I run out. You can choose any color you have a lot of. Consistency matters more than perfection.

8) Should I keep acrylic and natural fibers in the same blanket?

I don’t recommend mixing them in the same joined project if you can avoid it. I keep natural fibers separate from acrylic/synthetics so washing and care stays simple and the fabric behaves predictably.

9) Can I use a magic ring instead of a chain-3 ring?

You can, but I don’t. I use a chain-3 ring because I want the center to stay strong long-term, especially for blankets that get washed and tugged.

10) Do I have to join as I go, or can I join at the end?

Either works. Join-as-you-go keeps the pile of squares from getting huge and it keeps the project feeling “under control.” Joining at the end is totally fine if you prefer it.

11) My join looks loose or floppy. What am I doing wrong?

Most of the time, it’s the slip stitches. I keep my joining slip stitches snug (not tight enough to pucker, just firm). Also double-check you’re joining the matching spaces and keeping the “pretty V stitches” facing up.

12) What if my squares are not all the same size?

That happens with scrap yarn. Using the same hook size all year helps a lot. If you still have size differences, you can:

• block the squares before joining, or
• add an extra round to smaller squares, or
• group similar squares together in the same section of the blanket.

Hi, I’m Christa Patel. I’m a crochet lover who believes the best projects are the ones that fit real life. I like patterns that feel calm, practical, and fun, with enough structure to keep things consistent, and enough flexibility to let you use what you already have.

I’m the creator behind Secret Yarnery, where I share free crochet patterns, step-by-step tutorials, and simple techniques that help you crochet with confidence. I’m especially drawn to granny squares, scrap yarn projects, and easy blanket patterns because they’re relaxing to make and perfect for using up the yarn you’ve collected along the way.

When I’m not crocheting, I’m usually planning the next cozy make-along, testing little tips that make projects neater (like tidy joins and simple color changes), and cheering on makers who want a no-pressure way to keep stitching.

Want to crochet with me? Subscribe on YouTube and join the newsletter so you know what’s coming next in the Year of the Granny CAL 2026.