Granny Square Crochet

This much-loved style of crochet is probably the most universally recognized crochet motif around the world. Its popularity stems from the facts that it is made from basic stitches and is therefore quick and easy, it is small, easily portable, and uses up scraps of yarn left over from other projects. When the motifs are joined together the end result is a very useful, colorful and warm article which looks and feels very special and yet was both easy and cheap to produce.

Adapted from the much finer and more complex crochet patterns brought by the early European settlers to the new world, which of course were also time-consuming, granny square crochet became the more practical and useful expression of crochet at a time when practicality and usefulness were much more necessary to everyday life, and indeed survival, than fine and intricate beauty was.

Now don't get me wrong - I'm not saying that granny square crochet is not beautiful, because it most certainly does have a beauty all its own, as you can see in the photo. With its wonderful colors, patterns and textures it has aesthetic beauty, but it also has an ethereal beauty, too, or 'soul' - the ability to touch our hearts, perhaps because it connects us with the 'humanness' of the ones who made it, and also because it is so practical. Granny square rugs, shawls and throws are 'comfort' articles. They are also very satisfying to make.

If you haven't yet started a crochet project - perhaps because you are not sure what to try - then granny square crochet can be the very best way to start, once you know your first basic stitches. The fabulous thing about granny square crochet for a beginner is the fact that each square is quite small and therefore easy to get done, so that you can just crochet them whenever you have a few spare minutes. It won't be long at all before you have enough to put together to make something. I have seen them used to make cushion covers, doll's blankets, and even pot holders, so you see there are useful and pretty things you can do with only a very small number of squares, or even just two!

For more ideas, patterns and equipment, take a look on my blog, Crochet Life, where I have selected some of the best resources for you, plus hints and tips on Learning How To Crochet and Easy Crochet Projects. You will also find there, access to a fabulous book with everything you need to know, plus some great bonuses that go with it. When you get to the book's site, you will find the book and bonuses on the second page. Enjoy your craft!