When I first picked up a crochet hook, I thought granny squares looked like a fun and easy way to start – and they are! But along the way, I ran into a few bumps, made some mistakes, and had a few “aha!” moments I wish I’d known earlier. So I thought I’d share 10 things I’ve learned (and am still learning!) that might make your crochet journey a little smoother too.
Tip #1 Your tension matters (But it gets easier!)
In the beginning, my stitches were all over the place – some tight, some loose. It made my square go wavy at the edges.
What helped?
Relaxing my hands, choosing a slightly larger hook, and remembering that consistent tension takes practice. If your square looks a bit wonky at first – don’t worry, mine did too.
Tip #2 You don’t have to start with a ‘Magic Ring‘
I tried the magic ring a few times and just didn’t love it.
I prefer starting with 4 chains joined in a loop – it feels more stable to me.
Don’t stress if you can’t get the hang of a certain method. There are always alternatives that work just as well.
Tip #3 The chains between clusters are optional
Most tutorials use chains between granny clusters, but I prefer not to.
It makes the square feel tighter and less “holey,” which I love – especially for blankets or bags.
Don’t be afraid to adjust the pattern to suit your style.
My preference:
- Only 2 chains in the corners (instead of 3)
- NO chains between clusters
Little tweaks like this make your squares feel more you.
Tip #4 Turning your work can help keep it square
After a few rounds, I noticed my squares were twisting slightly. It turns out that always crocheting in the same direction can cause that spiral effect.
Now, I turn my work after every round – and it’s made a big difference in keeping things square and tidy.
It also avoids having ‘a righ side’ and a ‘wrong’ side – if that matters for what you are making.
Tip #5 Joining squares takes patience
Joining granny squares isn’t hard – but it can be fiddly and time consuming. I used to rush through this part, only to end up with misaligned corners.
Now I take my time and actually enjoy it! There are so many methods (whip stitch, join-as-you-go, flat braid…) and I’ll share my favorites in another post soon.
Tip #6 Yarn choice can make or break your project
At first, I grabbed whatever yarn I had – even leftovers from old school crafts! But yarn weight, texture, and stretchiness really affect how your square behaves.
Now, I lean toward smooth, non-splitty yarns (like DK cotton or soft acrylic) that make learning easier and stitching more enjoyable.
BUT – scrap yarn (leftovers) make great granny squares too!
Tip #7 You don’t need dozens of colours to start
I used to think I needed a rainbow of yarns to make a proper granny square blanket.
Not true! Some of my favorite projects use just 2 or 3 well-matched colors. Choosing a small palette keeps things simple and it’s easier to see how your squares are shaping up.
Tip #8 Blocking isn’t just for perfectionists
I’ll admit -I avoided blocking at first. It sounded too technical. But once I tried it? Game changer.
Blocking flattens your squares and makes them look so much more polished. Even if they’re not perfect (and mine often aren’t), blocking gives them that finished look.
And it’s a great way to store your work until you join up the squares!
Tip #9. It’s okay to undo and redo
If something doesn’t look or feel right, don’t be afraid to frog (that’s crochet-speak for unravel).
I used to feel frustrated when I had to start over. But now I see it as part of the process. Every stitch teaches you something.
Tip #10 Your first square is just the beginning
Your first granny square might not be perfect -but it’s still an achievement. Keep it! I still have mine.
It reminds me how far I’ve come, and its proof that starting small leads to big, beautiful things. The more you make, the more confident you’ll become.
Each square is a puzzle piece.
If you’re just starting out with granny squares, I hope this gave you a little reassurance – and maybe even a few shortcuts! We all learn by doing, and every wonky corner or skipped stitch is just part of the story. What matters most is that you’re creating something with your hands, your heart, and your time.
So keep going, be kind to yourself, and remember: every beautiful blanket starts with just one square. 💛
