Granny in a granny square pattern

Granny in a Granny Square Crochet Pattern

Project Overview

This is a charming crochet decoration pattern designed by Natalie Beard that combines the classic granny square motif with a whimsical character design. The project creates a decorative piece featuring a stylized grandmother figure worked entirely within the framework of a traditional granny square. This intermediate-level pattern merges classic crochet techniques with creative character construction, making it an engaging project for crafters looking to expand beyond basic granny square applications.

What You Will Make

You will create a decorative granny square featuring a character face with customizable features. The finished square measures approximately 18cm across and can be displayed as a standalone decoration or incorporated into larger projects such as blankets, cushions, or wall hangings. The design includes detailed facial features including eyes, mouth, cheeks, and glasses, allowing for personalization through color selection.

Crochet Techniques Used

This pattern employs fundamental crochet techniques suitable for intermediate crafters. The construction utilizes the magic circle method to begin work, which creates a neat center point for the granny square structure. The pattern incorporates several essential stitches and techniques:

• Magic Circle (Mc): Used to establish the center of the granny square with a secure, adjustable loop
• Treble Crochet (Tr): The primary stitch used throughout the granny square construction, creating the characteristic open, lacy appearance of traditional granny squares
• Treble Cluster (Tr cl): Decorative stitch elements that add texture and visual interest to the design
• Double Crochet (DC): Used for shaping and defining specific areas, particularly in character features
• Increases (Inc): Two-treble increases used to expand the square and create the proper dimensions
• Decreases (Dec): Utilized to shape and refine character features and facial elements
• Slip Stitch (Slst): Used to join rounds and create seamless transitions between sections

Stitches and Abbreviations

The pattern is written using UK crochet terminology. Key abbreviations include: Mc (magic circle), St (stitch), Tr (treble crochet), Tr cl (treble cluster), DC (double crochet), Inc (increase), Dec (decrease), and Slst (slip stitch). Understanding these abbreviations is essential for following the pattern accurately.

Materials Required

Yarn: The pattern calls for DK weight yarn, though Paintbox Cotton Aran has been used in the designer's sample. You will need yarn in multiple colors including a chosen skin tone, hair color, glasses color, three background colors, and gold yarn for the border. The designer's example uses Paintbox Cotton Aran in Lipstick Pink (652), Blood Orange (620), Buttercup Yellow (623), Lime Green (629), Marine Blue (634), Blush Pink (654), Vanilla Cream (608), Soft Fudge (610), Coffee Bean (611), Light Caramel (609), and Pure Black (602).

Tools and Notions: A 3.5mm crochet hook is required for this project. Additional materials include beads for embellishment, scissors, a yarn needle for weaving in ends and assembly, and safety eyes or embroidery thread and needle for creating eyes. The pattern notes that eyes can be embroidered as an alternative to safety eyes, providing flexibility based on preference and safety requirements.

Tension and Finished Dimensions

The pattern specifies a tension of 16 stitches to 10cm, which is important to achieve the correct finished size. Each completed granny square measures approximately 18cm across, making it a substantial decorative piece suitable for various applications.

Pattern Notes

This pattern is written using UK crochet terminology, which differs from US terminology in stitch definitions. Crafters familiar only with US terms should consult a conversion guide or familiarize themselves with UK abbreviations before beginning. The intermediate difficulty level suggests that crafters should have experience with basic crochet stitches and be comfortable reading pattern instructions before starting this project.