African flower granny square

African Flower Granny Square Motif by Anna Ushakova

What is Being Made

The African Flower Granny Square is a crochet motif designed by Anna Ushakova that combines traditional granny square construction with the distinctive African flower design aesthetic. This is a beginner-friendly project suitable for crafters new to crochet who want to create decorative square motifs that can be used for blankets, afghans, cushion covers, or other textile projects.

Craft and Technique

This project uses crochet as the primary technique. The African Flower Granny Square employs fundamental crochet methods that make it accessible to beginners while producing visually interesting results. The motif is constructed using basic crochet fundamentals that build upon each other to create the characteristic flower-inspired pattern within a square format.

Stitches and Construction

The pattern utilizes double crochet (dc) as a primary stitch, with a gauge of 22 stitches and 10 rows equaling 4 inches (10 centimeters) in double crochet after blocking. The granny square structure combines traditional crochet chain and stitch techniques to build the motif from the center outward, creating the layered, dimensional appearance characteristic of African flower designs.

Materials and Tools

Yarn: The original pattern calls for Schachenmayr Catania, a 100% cotton yarn in sport weight. The specific colors used in the original design are 00113, 00281, and 00106. Sport weight yarn is ideal for creating defined stitches and a fabric with good drape and structure.

Hook and Notions: A 2.50 mm crochet hook is recommended for use with the specified yarn. Essential tools include scissors and a tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends and joining motifs together.

Yarn Flexibility: While the pattern specifies Schachenmayr Catania, any yarn can be substituted provided an appropriately sized crochet hook is selected to maintain the correct gauge. The final dimensions of the granny square may vary depending on yarn choice and hook size, making gauge checking essential before beginning the project.

Skill Level and Blocking

Rated as a beginner project, this African Flower Granny Square is designed for crocheters with foundational knowledge of basic stitches. Proper blocking after completion is recommended to achieve the stated finished dimensions and to ensure even, professional-looking results. Always select a crochet hook size that produces the correct gauge after blocking for best results.