Little Lion Granny Square

Little Lion Granny Square by Dragana Savkov Bajic

What Is Being Made

The Little Lion Granny Square is a colorful crochet square featuring a smiling lion face design. These cheerful squares measure approximately 11 x 11 cm (4.3" x 4.3") and are specifically created to appeal to babies and toddlers. The finished squares can be used individually or combined to create larger projects such as blankets, bedspreads, cushions, bags, and scarves. The design emphasizes playful, happy aesthetics that make crochet items extraordinary and unique.

Techniques Used

This pattern employs several foundational and intermediate crochet techniques. The square is constructed using the magic ring method to begin stitching in the round, which creates a tight center point ideal for motif-based designs. The pattern incorporates standing single crochet for seamless stitch placement and uses cluster stitch for textured details that bring dimension to the lion's features. The combination of these techniques creates a structured, three-dimensional appearance suitable for decorative motifs.

Stitches Used

The Little Lion Granny Square utilizes a range of crochet stitches to achieve its finished appearance:

• Magic ring – for starting the center of the square
• Chain stitch (ch) – for creating foundation chains and spacing
• Slip stitch (slip st) – for joining rounds and finishing edges
• Single crochet (sc) – for tight, structured stitching
• Double crochet (dc) – for building height and coverage
• Treble crochet (tr) – for extended stitches and texture variation
• Cluster stitch – for creating decorative, dimensional details

Materials and Tools

The pattern is designed for sport weight yarn, specifically DK Light Worsted (8 ply) weight. The designer used 100% cotton yarn "Tango" (125m/50g) for the sample, which provides durability and breathability ideal for baby items. A 3.5 mm crochet hook (USA size 4/E) is recommended for this yarn weight. The pattern also calls for 5 mm plastic beads with holes to add facial features to the lion design, making the squares more engaging for young children.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as Advanced Beginner to Intermediate, making it suitable for crocheters who have mastered basic stitches and are ready to work with more complex techniques like cluster stitches and magic ring construction. The pattern is written using US crochet terms, providing clear guidance for English-speaking crocheters.