How to Crochet a Granny Square Blanket with Continuous Join As You Go!
Isn't it enchanting to create a beautiful, cozy granny square blanket? But let's be honest, the thought of weaving in hundreds of ends can quickly turn that dream into a daunting task. What if I told you there's a way to banish those yarn tails and create a seamless crochet, stunning blanket with minimal effort?
Enter the continuous join-as-you-go (CJAYGO) method!
I'm Christa, from the Secret Yarnery, and I'm thrilled to guide you through this game-changing technique. Prepare to say goodbye to tedious sewing and hello to a world of effortless granny square joining.
What Will You Learn?
In this post, you'll discover how to:
- Master the continuous join-as-you-go (CJAYGO) technique for joining granny squares.
- Create a flat, even granny square blanket without wobbly edges.
- Minimize the number of ends you have to weave in.
- Use this technique on any crochet granny square pattern you like!
I'll also share a separate tutorial on creating a fantastic border to complete your blanket. Remember, you can mix and match borders and blankets to suit your personal style!
Gathering Your Supplies: Setting the Stage for Success
Before we dive in, let's gather the essentials:
- Granny squares: Any pattern, any size! Feel free to use what you have or explore new designs. You can find some inspiration in the Secret Yarnery's Granny Squares collection.
- Yarn for joining: I'll be using a contrasting color in the video for demonstration purposes.
- Crochet hook: Choose the size recommended for your yarn weight.
- Scissors: For snipping yarn tails.
- Yarn needle: For weaving in those very few ends!
- Stitch markers: Optional, but they can be helpful for marking corners.
Yarn choice matters! For a cohesive look, use the same weight yarn as your granny squares. Consider different fiber options like cotton, acrylic, or wool, depending on your preference and the desired feel of your blanket.
You can also check out my Amazon Affiliate links in the video description for a list of Crochet Must Haves.
Planning Your Blanket Layout: A Visual Masterpiece
Before you start joining, take the time to arrange your granny squares. This step is crucial to ensure you love the final look of your blanket.
Pay special attention to your corner squares – they should match for visual balance.
Consider these arrangement strategies:
- Random color placement: For a scrappy, eclectic vibe.
- Planned color gradients: Create a smooth transition between colors.
- Repeating patterns: Arrange squares in a consistent, symmetrical design.
Take a photo of your layout for reference! It's easy to lose track once you start joining.
Pro-Tip: Lay your squares out on a large surface, like a bed or floor, to get a good overview of the overall design.
Getting Started: The First Row Foundation
Now for the fun part! Let's start joining those squares.
I'm using a contrasting color yarn to make the stitches clear in this tutorial. Of course, you can use the same color as your squares for a subtle, seamless join.
Here's how to join the first square:
- Pick any corner of the first square. It truly doesn't matter which one!
- Attach the joining yarn with a slip stitch, leaving a long tail for weaving in later.
- Chain two.
- Work two double crochets into the same corner space.
Next, work along the side of the square:
- Work three double crochets into each space along the granny square side.
- This technique works with any granny square pattern, so you can use your favorites!
Remember those corners! Work over your yarn tail to secure it as you go. Place three double crochets into the corner space.
Connecting the Squares: The Continuous Magic Begins
Let's connect the second square:
- Grab the next square from your stack.
- Work three double crochets into any corner space of the new square.
- Continue with three double crochets into each space along the side.
Pause here and work ahead until you reach the corner of the second square.
Consistency is key! Use the same tension for each stitch to ensure a straight, even join.
Complete the row by working three double crochets into the corner space of the second square. Repeat this process for all remaining squares in the first row.
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Completing the First Block: Setting Up for Continuous Joining
After joining the last block in the row, rotate your work. We're now going to work around the block to set up the continuous join.
This step mimics a regular granny square pattern:
- Chain two (or whatever chain count your granny square uses for corners).
- Work three double crochets into the same corner space.
- Continue with three double crochets into each space along the side.
When you reach the corner space where you began, work three double crochets into that space.
Ensure the right sides of the blocks are facing up. Slip stitch around the corner area to join, then chain one.
The Heart of the CJAYGO: Joining the Second Row
This is where the magic truly happens!
Position your work with the completed row above you. This helps you maintain the correct orientation and prevents mistakes.
Work three double crochets into the corner space of the next square to finish the corner.
Now, for the core of the CJAYG method: slip stitching to join the new square to the completed one.
I have a specific method, so decide if you want to take your hook out and put your loop back on your hook to bring it through, or just put your hook straight down in. Whatever you do, stick with your decision for the whole project!
Here's the alternating stitch pattern:
- Three double crochets into the space of the new square.
- Slip stitch into the corresponding space of the completed square.
Repeat this pattern along the side.
When you reach the corners:
- Work three double crochets into the corner space of the new square.
- Slip stitch into the corner space of the completed square.
- Chain one.
Continuing Around the Block: Building the Blanket
Rotate your work to continue along the next block on the two sides. Pause and maintain the three double crochet/slip stitch pattern, working corners as usual (three double crochet, chain two, three double crochet).
When you get to the corner where you started, work three double crochets into the corner space. Slip stitch around the bend to join, and chain one.
The process is now repeating! Work three double crochets into the corner space of the new square, slip stitch into the corner space of the completed square, and continue along the side.
Joining the Rest of the First Row: Practice Makes Perfect
Pause here to complete the first row. Focus on maintaining consistent tension and stitch placement.
Take a step back and admire your work! This helps you identify any errors early on.
Starting Subsequent Rows: Building Upon Your Foundation
Remember that one side of the block will not be worked on until all the squares are joined.
Get your next blocks ready and stack them up. Rotate the work so the completed work is on top.
Join as you go: three double crochets in the block that you're working on, then slip stitch into the very first space of the block you've finished.
Remember to work three double crochets into that corner space, and into that join space.
Add blocks the same way all the time. If possible, work all the blocks along the row.
Finishing and Connecting Subsequent Rows: Almost There
When you've reached the end of the row, slip stitch into that corner space to finish it off, and chain one. Rotate your work and finish that corner with three double crochets into this space.
Work around this block on three sides.
When you've gone all the way around the block, and are at the corner, work three double crochets into that corner space and slip stitch between those blocks.
Connecting to the Next Square: Making it Beautiful
Remember to work between blocks. Rotate your work.
Slip stitch, and use your finger to make sure your yarn doesn't grab anything.
We're now ready to start joining our next square! Work three double crochets into that corner space and slip stitch into the next space on the block that you have finished.
Keep going, joining the rest of this row until you get to the end.
Repeating the Rows: Getting Closer to the End
At the end of the row, do your three double crochets into that last corner space. We are not going to finish this side.
Repeat row two until all of your rows are joined. Use the video if you're having trouble!
Finishing the Last Edge: You're Almost Done!
Once all of your rows have been joined up, you're ready to finish the last edge. Rotate your work and finish off this row on this one square.
Work three double crochets into each space. This corner space gets three double crochets just to finish off that corner, and now slip stitch. Chain one to give yourself a little room, and now into the next corner three double crochets.
Adding the Final Row: Smoothing Out the Edges
Add one more row of granny stitch around your whole blanket to even it out. Continue with this yarn. Join with a chain one and make a single crochet into the top of that chain. Chain three, and two double crochets to start the round. Pop a stitch marker in if you think you are going to miss it. Work three double crochets into each of these spaces.
Working the Joins in the Final Row: A Seamless Transition
When you get to the join, you will see two corner spaces right there. You are going to start your shell in the first one and finish it in the second. One double crochet, then start your second double crochet but leave it on your hook. Jump over into the second side, the second corner space, and start another double crochet, leaving it on your hook, so you'll have three strands.
Now you'll have three strands, wrap your yarn, turn your hook towards yourself, and take off all three loops – that is a two DC Talk. Into the next space, work three double crochets.
Completing the Final Round: A Picture-Perfect Finish
Keep working around the blanket. If you are confused, go back in the video.
Put three double crochets into that last space, join with a chain two, and chain one to secure your yarn.
Weaving in the Ends: The Final Step to Perfection
Now sew in your two tails and you're finished!
Sharing Your Project: Inspiring Others
I hope you enjoyed this journey. Share photos of your finished blankets on social media using the hashtags #SecretYarnery #GrannySquareBlanket #CJAYGO. I would love to see them!
Resources: Where to Find More Help and Inspiration
Here are some helpful resources to guide you:
- Written pattern: Secret Yarnery.
- Right-handed tutorial on YouTube: https://youtu.be/wZkePsLBxQU.
- Left-handed tutorial on YouTube: https://youtu.be/-O_fLCxAo90.
- Christa's Left Handed Tutorials: https://www.youtube.com/@lefthandedcrochettutorials.
Customizing Your Blanket: Making it Uniquely Yours
Here's where you can really let your creativity shine!
Experiment with different yarn colors, textures, and weights. Use different granny square patterns within the same blanket. And explore different border styles to add a personal touch.
Conclusion
I hope you enjoyed this journey as much as I did. I can't wait to see all of your blankets. For another relaxing and fun crochet adventure, check out my next video, and stay hooked!
Left Handed?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the Continuous Join-As-You-Go (CJAYGO) method?
The CJAYG method is a crochet technique for joining granny squares seamlessly as you create your blanket. It eliminates the need for sewing squares together, reduces the number of ends to weave in, and creates a neat, uniform finish.
2. Can I use this method with any granny square pattern?
Yes! The CJAYGO method works with any granny square pattern as long as all your squares have the same number of spaces along their sides for consistent joining.
3. Do I need to use a contrasting color for joining?
Using a contrasting color makes it easier to see the join stitches, especially if you are new to the CJAYG method. However, you can use the same color as your squares for a seamless, blended look.
4. What type of yarn works best for this technique?
It’s best to use yarn with the same weight as your granny squares to maintain consistency. Cotton, acrylic, or wool yarns work well—pick based on the texture and durability you want for your blanket.
5. How do I avoid my blanket edges becoming wobbly?
Use consistent tension throughout your work and ensure the same number of stitches are added to each square. Lay your work flat occasionally to spot and adjust any uneven edges.
6. How do I arrange the granny squares for the blanket layout?
Arrange your squares on a flat surface like a bed or floor. Experiment with layouts such as random arrangements, gradient color transitions, or repeating patterns. Take a photo for reference before you begin joining.
7. What if my square sizes differ slightly?
You can use blocking to even out slight size differences across your squares. If the difference is significant, adjust your stitch count so the joins look even.
8. What should I do if I make a mistake while joining?
Mistakes can be undone by gently unraveling your stitches. Always check your progress regularly to catch errors before they become harder to fix.
9. Can I add a border to my CJAYGO blanket?
Yes! Adding a border is a great way to finish your blanket and give it a polished look. Choose a border pattern that complements your design.
10. How long does it take to complete a CJAYGO blanket?
The time needed depends on the size of your blanket, the complexity of your squares, and how much time you dedicate to the project. However, the CJAYG method saves time by combining joining and crocheting.
11. Is there a specific hook size I should use?
Use the crochet hook size recommended for your yarn. Refer to your yarn label for guidance or adjust the hook size to match your tension preferences.
Christa Patel is the creative mind behind the Secret Yarnery, a haven for crochet enthusiasts of all skill levels. With years of experience in the fiber arts, Christa has mastered the art of teaching hooks and yarn techniques in a way that's simple, engaging, and fun. Her unique approach combines practicality with creativity, making even the most complex projects feel approachable.
Based in Nairobi, Kenya, Christa connects with a global audience through her YouTube channel, where she shares tutorials, tips, and inspiration for all things crochet. Known for her enthusiasm and clear instructions, she makes intricate projects like granny square blankets easy to tackle for beginners and experts alike.
When she's not crocheting, Christa enjoys designing patterns, experimenting with new yarns, and engaging with the vibrant crochet community online. Her mission is to inspire others to find joy and relaxation in crochet while nurturing their creativity.
Explore more of Christa's work on the Secret Yarnery platform and follow her journey to enhance your crochet skills one stitch at a time.