Easy One Row Repeat: Palm Springs Granny Square Crochet Guide
Ready to add a touch of sunshine and vibrancy to your crochet collection? Today, I’m sharing my step-by-step experience making the Palm Springs Granny Square, featured in the Secret Stitches CAL 2021 Part 8. This pattern is perfect for those times when you want something simple, easy to remember, and strikingly beautiful. The one-row repeat is soothing to work on, making it ideal for crocheting while watching TV or chatting with friends.
Below, I’ve broken down every step from start to finish, shared tips for getting neat edges, and added helpful links for expanding your crochet journey. If you’re searching for a confidence-boosting project to grow your skills or just a relaxing pattern for your next blanket, you’ll love the Palm Springs Granny Square.
Materials Needed for the Palm Springs Granny Square
Before you get started, gather your tools and yarn. Simple prep means a smooth and enjoyable project.
You’ll need:
- Yarn: I’m using Saver from Ice Yarns, but you can use any yarn to match your other squares or pick a contrasting color for drama.
- Hook: Six millimeter Clover hook, or the size you’ve used for your other squares.
- Needle: For weaving in those pesky ends at the finish.
- Scissors: A sharp pair to trim neatly.
- Stitch Markers: Seven are recommended. If you don’t have them, paper clips or bobby pins work, or you can skip them if you trust your stitch counting skills.
Why use stitch markers? They help track your chain sections, especially if you get distracted easily. It’s just one way to keep your stitch count on point.
Want a written pattern to go along with these instructions? Find it at the Palm Springs Granny Square Pattern page.
Starting Your Foundation Chain and Setting Up Stitch Markers
Let’s start at the very beginning. Here’s how I get the Palm Springs Granny Square off to a great start every time.
- Make a Slip Knot: However you usually do it, slip that knot onto your hook.
- Create the Foundation Chain: Chain 6. As you chain, notice the little “V” shapes forming.
- Identify the Back Loops: Flip the chain—a row of “camel bumps” appears on the back. These are the back loops. They make your foundation row look clean and sharp.
- Place Stitch Markers: Insert a marker into the back loop of the very first chain (right under the working yarn).⠀
- Chain in Multiples: Repeat the process—chain 6 and insert a marker into the first back loop—until you have 42 chains and have used all 7 stitch markers.
- Chain 3 More: This brings you to 45 chains, setting you up for neat edges.
If you ever feel the back loops are too fussy, you can work into the front loops, but for the cleanest look, try sticking with the back.
Tip: Stitch markers aren’t permanent. Pull them out as you crochet if they get in your way.
Row One: Creating the Palm Fronds with V-Stitches
This row lays the tropical “palm fronds” foundation for your square. I always keep a steady rhythm by counting and double-checking at each marker.
Here’s the breakdown:
- Identify Your Working Chain: Find the first back loop under the working yarn—your starting point.
- Wrap and Work: Yarn over, then work a double crochet into the fourth chain after your current position (where a stitch marker sits).
- Remove the Stitch Marker: If needed, pull out the marker as you work into the stitch.
- Skip Four Chains: Count four chains ahead after every v-stitch.
- Create the First Palm Frond: Into the fifth (right before the next marker) work a v-stitch: double crochet, chain one, double crochet—all in the same chain.
- Work Into Stitch Marker: Into the stitch where the marker sits, repeat the v-stitch: double crochet, chain one, double crochet.
- Repeat: Continue this rhythm: skip four, v-stitch in the fifth, v-stitch at the marker, working along the chain.
- Finish Row One: At the end, skip to the very last chain (right above the knot) and work two double crochets to give a firm edge.
Tip: Always check your count as you go. The stitch markers make sure you never lose your place, and you can just pull them out as you hit each one.
Turning Your Work and Row Two: Building the Palm Tree “Leaves”
Turning the work is a small but important action for neatness.
- Turn With Care: Chain three, then swivel your work so you’re always looking at the “right” side for the next round.
- Double Crochet in the First Stitch: This anchors your row neatly.
- Spot Your “Trees”: The two center double crochets from each group (the vertical “sticks”) are your “trees.” Ignore the ones angled outward—focus on the upright pairs.
- V-Stitch in Each Tree: In each center double crochet (“tree”) work a v-stitch: double crochet, chain one, double crochet.
- Repeat: Work this v-stitch setup for every pair along the row.
- End with Double Crochets: At the row’s end, two double crochets in the top of the previous row’s chain three.
It becomes second nature to look for the two “trees” standing up each time. Work your v-stitch into those and you’ll never go wrong.
What’s a double crochet? Wrap your yarn, insert into the stitch, yarn over, pull through, yarn over and pull through two, yarn over and pull through the final two loops.
Pattern Repeat Explained: Making It Easy to Remember
The best part about the Palm Springs Granny Square is the simplicity.
Everything after row two is a one-row repeat.
Here’s how I remember it:
- Turn with chain three
- Double crochet into the first stitch
- Work a v-stitch (double crochet, chain one, double crochet) into each of the two “trees” in every cluster
- Repeat across the row
- Double crochet twice in the top of last chain three to finish
This rhythm builds into muscle memory fast—perfect for relaxed evenings or multitasking days.
Tip: Pause occasionally to double-check your v-stitches are lined up in the right “trees.” Repetition helps you spot and fix mistakes quickly.
Final Row: Finishing Off the Palm Springs Granny Square
Time to give your square a polished final edge.
- Start the Row: Chain one, then turn.
- Single Crochet in the First Stitch: Sets up a tidy border.
- Chain Three: Creates the initial space.
- Single Crochet into Each Tree: Find the two “trees” in each group, work one single crochet into each.
- Chain Four Between Groups: After every pair of single crochets, chain four before moving to the next group.
- Repeat: Continue chaining four and single crocheting into “trees” to the end.
- Finish Neatly: On the final cluster, chain three, then single crochet into the top of the last chain three from previous row.
- Secure and Weave Ends: Chain one, cut yarn, pull through, and snug it down. Weave in your ends using your needle for a smooth finish.
Action step: Take your time with the last round. This edge sets the mood for your square, framing your stitches like a picture.
Tips & Tricks for Working the Palm Springs Granny Square
- Choose colors that match your previous squares for a coordinated look, or pick bold contrasts if you want your Palm Springs Granny Square to stand out.
- If stitch markers are missing, use paper clips, bobby pins, or just your own careful eye. The pattern is forgiving if you’re accurate in your chain counting.
- Take out stitch markers as soon as you work into those stitches to avoid tangling.
- Turning your work by sliding your hand under and bringing it through keeps your stitches consistent row after row.
- Practice the repeat a few times, and soon you won’t even need instructions.
Tip: A relaxed grip and even tension make for a more comfortable crocheting experience and smoother edges.
Where to Find More Resources and Connect
Expand your creative journey with more resources and join a friendly community:
- Download the detailed Palm Springs Granny Square Pattern for easy reference.
- Find other projects in the Secret Yarnery Crochet Patterns collection.
- Explore the full Palm Springs Collection for yarns and patterns with tropical flair.
- Don’t forget to subscribe on YouTube, and join the conversation on Instagram (@secretyarnery) and Facebook.
Conclusion
Making the Palm Springs Granny Square is like crocheting a little slice of summer. With a rhythm that’s simple to remember and a design that pops with color, it fits right into any throw or blanket project. Whether you’re a beginner building new skills or an experienced crocheter after a TV-friendly pattern, this one offers relaxation with bright results.
Share your finished square with the community, try new yarns or colors, and let your creativity shine. Hop over to my pattern collection for more inspiration, or read about 15 Fun Crochet Projects for 2025—there’s always something joyful waiting in the next stitch.
Stay hooked!
FAQs
1. Can beginners make the Palm Springs Granny Square?
Yes. The pattern uses basic stitches and a simple repeat. It’s a good project for anyone learning crochet or wanting stress-free stitching.
2. What yarn works best for this pattern?
Medium-weight (worsted/aran) acrylic or cotton yarn works well. Use the same yarn weight as your other squares for an even blanket. Color choice is up to you.
3. What size should my finished square be?
The size depends on your hook, yarn, and tension. With a 6mm hook and medium yarn, it’s usually about 8–10 inches across.
4. Can I make this square bigger or smaller?
Yes. Add or reduce repeats of the main row to adjust the size. Make sure to end on a full pattern repeat for neat edges.
5. Do I need to use stitch markers?
Markers help keep count but are optional. Confident crocheters can work without them by careful counting.
6. How do I join these squares to make a blanket?
Use the whip stitch or single crochet method to join finished squares, matching stitch to stitch. Block your squares first for best results.
7. What if my square curls or doesn't lie flat?
Try blocking your finished square. Keep your tension even. If your square still curls, check your stitch count each row.
8. Can I use a different crochet hook size?
Yes. Use a hook that matches your yarn, or try larger/smaller hooks for a looser or tighter square.
9. Where can I get more help with this pattern?
Check the Secret Yarnery YouTube tutorial and written pattern. Join their crochet community on Instagram or Facebook for extra tips.
Christa Patel is the creator behind Secret Yarnery. She designs crochet patterns that are easy to follow, colorful, and fun for all skill levels. Christa believes crochet should be relaxing and joyful, not stressful. Her tutorials on YouTube have helped thousands of crafters gain confidence and try new projects.
With a warm, welcoming teaching style, Christa shares detailed tips and step-by-step videos to support beginners and seasoned crocheters alike. She lives in Nairobi, Kenya, where she runs the Secret Yarnery community—an online space for crochet inspiration, free resources, and friendly crochet chat. You can find more of her patterns, tips, and community activities at secretyarnery.com and on her YouTube channel.