How to Crochet Flower Granny Square A Complete Guide

Crochet is a timeless craft that continues to evolve, blending tradition with creativity. One of the most popular and versatile motifs in crochet is the granny square — a simple yet iconic building block that can be used to make everything from blankets to bags and garments. When you add a crochet flower to the center of a granny square, you get a beautiful fusion of texture and color that transforms a simple square into a work of art.

Whether you’re new to crochet or looking to add new motifs to your pattern library, learning how to crochet a flower granny square opens the door to endless possibilities.


What is a Flower Granny Square?

A flower granny square is a type of crochet motif where a flower is crocheted in the center, and the outer layers are shaped into a square. This gives the visual appeal of a blooming flower framed by a traditional square pattern — a perfect combination of organic and geometric beauty.

These squares are often used in:

  • Blankets and throws

  • Pillow covers

  • Tote bags and pouches

  • Sweaters and cardigans

  • Table runners and wall art


Materials You’ll Need

Before diving into the pattern, gather the following supplies:

Yarn:

  • Type: Worsted weight yarn (category 4) for a standard size.

  • Colors: At least two — one for the flower, and another for the background (square).

  • Fiber: Acrylic, cotton, or a blend (cotton offers great stitch definition; acrylic is easier to work with).

Hook:

  • Size 4.0mm (G/6) or as recommended on the yarn label.

Other Tools:

  • Yarn needle (for weaving in ends)

  • Scissors

  • Stitch marker (optional for beginners)


Stitches You Should Know

This pattern uses beginner-to-intermediate stitches. You should be familiar with:

  • Slip Knot and Foundation Chain

  • Chain (ch)

  • Slip Stitch (sl st)

  • Single Crochet (sc)

  • Half Double Crochet (hdc)

  • Double Crochet (dc)

  • Treble Crochet (tr)

  • Cluster stitch (used for puffier flower centers)


Step-by-Step Pattern: Crochet Flower Granny Square

Below is a basic pattern to create a 3D flower granny square with layered petals.


Round 1: Make the Flower Center

  1. Start with a magic ring, or chain 4 and join with a slip stitch to form a ring.

  2. Ch 1, then work 12 single crochets (sc) into the ring.

  3. Join to the first sc with a sl st. (12 stitches total)

TIP: Use a different color for the flower petals.


Round 2: Form the Flower Petals

  1. Ch 2 (counts as part of your first petal).

  2. In the same stitch, work (1 dc, 1 tr, 1 dc, ch 2).

  3. Sl st into the next stitch.

  4. Repeat this petal pattern: (Ch 2, 1 dc, 1 tr, 1 dc, ch 2, sl st in next st) around.

  5. You’ll make 6 petals in total (or 12 if you work into each stitch).

You now have a complete flower in the round!


Round 3: Transition to the Square Shape

Switch to your background color (the one used for the square frame).

  1. Insert hook behind a petal and sl st into the space between two petals.

  2. Ch 3 (counts as a dc), 2 dc into the same space, ch 2, 3 dc into the same space — this forms a corner.

  3. Move to the next space between petals, 3 dc.

  4. Repeat the (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in every third space to form the four corners, and 3 dc in the remaining two side spaces.

  5. Join with a sl st to the top of the starting ch-3.

You now have a square with a flower centered inside!


Round 4 (Optional): Add One More Border

Continue with your square frame:

  1. Ch 3, and work dc in each stitch around.

  2. In each corner space, work (2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc).

  3. Join with sl st.


Finishing Up

  • Fasten off the yarn and weave in all loose ends using your yarn needle.

  • Block your square to straighten edges if necessary (especially helpful for joining).


Customizations and Variations

1. Petal Styles

  • Use puff stitches or popcorn stitches for a chunkier 3D flower.

  • Layer a second set of petals behind the first for a fuller bloom.

2. Color Changes

  • Use gradient or ombré yarns for a multi-tone flower.

  • Alternate background colors for a patchwork quilt effect.

3. Square Sizing

  • Add more border rounds to increase square size.

  • Use thinner yarn and a smaller hook for smaller squares.


Joining Flower Granny Squares

Here are some popular methods for joining your granny squares:

1. Whip Stitch (Sewing)

  • Use a yarn needle and stitch squares together edge-to-edge.

  • Best for seamless joins.

2. Slip Stitch Join (Crochet)

  • Crochet squares together using slip stitches for a visible ridge.

3. Join-As-You-Go

  • Attach new squares while working the final round.

  • Saves time and creates a uniform join.


Creative Ideas Using Flower Granny Squares

Here are ways you can use your finished squares:

Project Notes
Blanket/Afghan Combine multiple squares in a pattern.
Cushion Covers 16 squares per side make a standard pillowcase.
Bags and Purses Use squares for front/back panels.
Wall Hangings Hang connected squares on a wooden dowel.
Baby Items Use pastel shades for a soft, cozy baby gift.
Table Runners Arrange them in a line and edge with lace.

Tips for Beginners

  • Start with fewer squares and smaller projects like coasters.

  • Use stitch markers to keep track of corners.

  • Don’t worry if your first few squares aren’t perfect — blocking helps a lot!

  • Practice with scrap yarn until you’re confident in the pattern.


Conclusion

The flower granny square is more than just a pretty motif — it’s a celebration of color, creativity, and tradition. With a few simple stitches and your imagination, you can turn a ball of yarn into a square bursting with floral charm. From heirloom blankets to trendy accessories, the possibilities are endless.

By learning to crochet this beautiful motif, you’re not just making a square — you’re building the foundation for countless creative projects to come.

Video tutorial:

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