Showing posts with label granny square. Show all posts
Showing posts with label granny square. Show all posts

Wednesday, November 22, 2023

The Timeless Charm of Granny Squares: A Crochet Tradition

The Timeless Charm of Granny Squares: A Crochet Tradition

In the vast and colorful landscape of crochet, few patterns have stood the test of time quite like the beloved granny square. A cornerstone of the craft, the granny square is more than just a motif; it's a symbol of tradition, creativity, and the enduring joy of handmade creations. Join us as we delve into the history, versatility, and timeless appeal of granny squares.




  1. A Stitch in Time: Origins of Granny Squares:

The origins of the granny square can be traced back to the early 19th century, with its roots embedded in the rich tapestry of craft traditions. Initially, these squares were a way for crafters to use up leftover yarn, creating small, portable projects that could be worked on bit by bit. Over time, the granny square evolved from a practical use of scraps to a cherished and versatile crochet pattern.


A Simple Stitch variation can make a striking difference! 
Wind Rose Heart


  1. Versatility Beyond Measure:

One of the key reasons for the enduring popularity of granny squares is their remarkable versatility. From blankets and afghans to scarves, shawls, and even garments, the granny square adapts effortlessly to a myriad of projects. Crafters can experiment with different yarn weights, colors, and arrangements to create unique and personalized items.


Scroll down to find the pattern for the classic "Good Old Granny Square"


  1. Colorful Creativity:

Granny squares are a playground for color enthusiasts. Crafters can experiment with color combinations, gradients, and ombre effects, transforming a simple square into a vibrant work of art. The rhythmic repetition of the pattern allows for endless possibilities in color placement, making each granny square project a canvas for self-expression.


A Solid Granny Square


  1. Joining Forces: Creating Larger Masterpieces:

Beyond their standalone charm, granny squares shine in their ability to join forces and create larger masterpieces. Whether stitched together traditionally or using more modern methods like join-as-you-go, the squares come together to form blankets, throws, toys, and even garments. The joining process adds an extra layer of creativity to the overall design.



  1. A Tradition Passed Down:

The beauty of granny squares lies not only in their aesthetic appeal but also in their role as a tradition passed down through generations. Many crafters fondly recall learning to crochet with the guidance of a family member or friend, stitching together their first granny square. This timeless pattern connects crafters across time and space, creating a sense of continuity in the world of crochet.


Find my pattern ' Good Old Granny Squares ' here

Whether you're a seasoned crochet enthusiast or just starting your journey with yarn and hook in hand, the granny square invites you to join a tradition that spans generations—one square at a time.

Happy Crocheting!


Emma

Friday, April 8, 2022

Buttercup Square - Bouquet of Flowers CAL

 Hi there! Today I am bringing you my contribution to the Bouquet of Flowers CAL - the Buttercup Square!

 


 



The CAL has been running since the 28th of February, but it's never too late to start a CAL!

As you might have guessed, the Bouquet of Flowers CAL follows a floral theme, with each designer contributing a square that captures the theme for them. 

You can read all about the CAL here, at our host's blog: Sunflower Cottage Crochet - which also includes links to all the other squares, the codes for free downloads, and at the end of the cal, the beautiful border. 

 

If you don't want to wait for the CAL squares that have not been released, there is the option to purchase the bundle now - and own all the patterns. you can do this by clicking on the 'Buy the Bundle' button below. 

  




My square is called the Buttercup Square. I chose to make it in a single colour - buttercup yellow! but it's totally up to you if you want to try each round in a different colour, or experiment with whatever takes your fancy. The Buttercup Square has a 3d element, which is achieved by back post stitches - but I would say this square is suitable for anyone who has mastered the basics. I have included some 'unusual joins' to minimize cutting yarn if you choose to keep it one single colour. This pattern is written in us terms. 



For my square, I used Stylecraft Special DK, some other alternatives are Paintbox DK, Fiddlesticks 8ply or any great quality 8ply/DK weight yarn. I used approximately 30g, so this can be a great stash diving square!

I've also used a 4mm crochet hook. you'll also need a needle for the ends and scissors. 

The pattern will remain free here on my blog (keep scrolling for the pattern) But if you'd like to own a PDF copy, you can purchase one from Ravelry by clicking this link below.


 




Abbreviations (US terms): 

ch – chain  
sc – single crochet 
dc – double crochet 
hdc – half double crochet 
BPsc – Back Post single crochet 
BL – back loop 
2dc-cl – 2 double crochet cluster (see below) 
sl st – slip stitch 
st/s - stitch/es 
sk - skip 
sp- space 
YO – yarn over 




Special stitches: 

2dc-cl – 2 dc worked together to form 1 st  

Method: *YO, hook into next st, pull up loop, YO, pull hook through 2 loops on hook, rep from *, YO, pull hook through 3 loops on hook 

Hdc join – half double crochet worked into the first stich of the row, to join round.  This counts as chains, and starts the next row in the centre of the chain space just made. Also used sc/dc join.  

BPsc back post single crochet 

Method: Hook around next post (from back to front) YO, pull up loop, YO, pull hook through both loops on hook.  

For more information on this join – please refer to this blog post


Pattern 

Make a magic ring 

R1: ch 3 (counts as dc) 11dc, sl st to close (12dc) 

R2: ch 4 (counts as 1dc, 1ch) *1dc, 1ch, into next st, rep from * around, sl st to 3rd ch to join (12dc, 12ch) 

R3: ch 3, dc in same st (counts as 2dc-cl), 2dc-cl in same st, ch1, *(2x2dc-cl, ch1) in next st, rep from * around, sl st to 1st st to join (24 2dc-cl, 12 ch) 

R4: sl st in next 2dc-cl, *(sc in next chsp, ch3) rep from * around, sl st to 1st sc to join. (12sc, 36ch) 

R5: sl st into next chsp, 3ch (counts as dc) 3dc in same chsp, ch1, *(4dc in next chsp, ch1) rep from * around, sc join to 1st st. (48dc, 12ch) 

R6: ch 1, sc in chsp just made, sk 2 dc, 5dc in next st (3rd dc in cluster) *sc in next chsp, sk 2 dc, 5dc in next st, rep from *, sl st join (60 dc, 12 sc 

R7: ch 1, BPsc around sc, *6ch, *BPsc around next sc,  rep from *10 times, ch3, dc join in 1st st. (12BPsc, 72 ch 


R8: ch3, 2dc into same chsp, (5ch, sc in next chsp,) (7ch, sc in next chsp) 5ch, *(3dc, 2ch, 3dc) into next chsp, (5ch, sc in next chsp,) (7ch, sc in next chsp) 5ch, rep from * twice, 3dc in next ch sp, hdc to 1st st  to join. (8sc, 76ch) 

R9: ch3, (counts as dc) 2dc into hdc sp, ch1, (4dc, ch1) into ch-5sp, (3dc, ch1, 3dc, ch1) into ch-7 sp,  (4dc, ch1) into ch-5 sp, *(3dc, ch2, 3dc, ch1) into next ch-2sp, (4dc, ch1) into ch-5sp, (3dc, ch1, 3dc, ch1) into ch-7 sp, (4dc, ch1) into ch-5 sp, rep from * twice, 3dc in hdc sp, hdc join. (80dc, 28ch) 

R10: ch3, (counts as dc) 2dc into hdc sp, 25dc, *(3dc, ch2, 3dc) into next ch-2 sp, 25dc, rep from * twice, 3dc (in hdc sp), hdc join. (124 dc)  

R11: ch 3, (counts as dc) dc into hdc sp, *[ch1, sk1, dc in next st] 14 times, ch1 (2dc, ch2, 2dc) in ch-2sp, rep from * twice, [ch1, sk1, dc in next st] 15 times, 2dc (in hdc sp), hdc join. (76dc, 72ch) 

R12: ch2, (counts as hdc) hdc in hdc sp, 35hdc, *(2hdc, ch2, 2hdc) in ch-2sp, 35hdc, rep from * twice, 2dc (in hdc sp), hdc join. (156 hdc, 8ch) 

R13: ch2, (counts as hdc) hdc in hdc sp, 39BLhdc, *(2hdc, ch2, 2hdc) in ch-2sp, 35BLhdc, rep from * twice, 2dc (in hdc sp), hdc join. (172 hdc, 8ch)  




Finishing. 

Fasten off and weave in ends  

For best results block to 10 sq inches 



As always, Happy Crocheting,

Emma