Along the Edge Granny Square

Along the Edge Granny Square by Alicia LaFontaine

What is Being Made

The Along the Edge Granny Square is an intermediate-level crochet project that creates a finished square measuring 8.5 x 8.5 inches. This classic granny square design combines traditional crochet construction with modern color work, making it suitable for crafters looking to expand their skills beyond basic granny square patterns. The project uses a two-color approach with Color A in White and Color B in Teal, creating visual interest and dimension in the final piece.

Crochet Techniques Used

This pattern employs several intermediate crochet techniques that distinguish it from basic granny squares. The design incorporates working in the round, a fundamental technique for creating seamless, circular-based square constructions. A key technique featured in this pattern is working stitches behind other stitches, which creates texture and visual depth along the edges of the square. This behind-the-stitch method contributes to the distinctive edging that gives the pattern its name.

The pattern utilizes color carrying throughout, allowing crafters to maintain both yarn colors active during rounds rather than fastening off and restarting with each color change. This technique reduces the number of yarn ends to weave in at the completion of the project, though the pattern notes that fastening off colors at the end of each round is an acceptable alternative for those who prefer it.

Blocking is recommended upon completion to ensure the edges remain even, as the combination of stitch types and techniques may create slight dips between corners during the construction process.

Stitches Used

The Along the Edge Granny Square features a mix of fundamental crochet stitches that work together to create the finished design:

• Double Crochet (dc) – Used throughout the pattern as a primary stitch, providing structure and density to the square
• Treble Crochet (tr) – Incorporated strategically, particularly when working behind Color A stitches to create the distinctive edged effect

The combination of these two stitch heights creates visual interest and texture variation, with the treble crochets adding height and dimension to specific areas of the design.

Materials and Specifications

This project requires minimal yardage, making it an economical choice for stash busting or sampling new colors:

• Color A (White) – Less than 100 yards of worsted weight acrylic yarn
• Color B (Teal) – Less than 100 yards of worsted weight acrylic yarn
• Hook Size – US J 10/6.00mm crochet hook
• Additional Supplies – Scissors and a yarn needle for weaving in ends

The pattern calls for worsted weight yarn, which is a medium-weight yarn suitable for creating fabric with good drape and durability. The gauge is specified as 1 inch equals 4 double crochets and 2 rows, providing a reference point for achieving the correct finished dimensions.

Pattern Notes and Difficulty

Rated as an intermediate-level pattern, the Along the Edge Granny Square is designed for crocheters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle more complex stitch combinations and techniques. The pattern acknowledges that working treble crochets behind Color A stitches may seem confusing initially, and the instructions are spaced out to avoid overwhelming paragraphs and improve clarity. This thoughtful presentation makes the pattern more accessible despite its intermediate classification.