Welcome, crochet enthusiasts! Today, we're diving into the colorful world of African Flower Granny Squares. This intermediate-level project creates a stunning 4-inch square that's perfect for blankets, bags, or even wall art.
Did you know these vibrant squares were inspired by traditional African textiles? They're a fantastic way to use up yarn scraps and add a pop of color to any project. Don't worry if you're new to this pattern – I've got you covered with step-by-step instructions and helpful photos coming up. So grab your hook, and let's create something beautiful together!
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Pin this vibrant African Flower square and brighten up your crochet projects with a pop of color and intricate design!
Recommended Yarn and Crochet Hooks
Now that we've covered the basics, let's talk about choosing the perfect yarn and hooks for your African Flower Granny Square project.
When it comes to yarn, I'm a huge fan of Loopara milk cotton for these squares. It's wonderfully soft with a lovely sheen, and the vibrant color range really makes the flower pattern pop. The gentle texture is kind to your hands, and it holds up beautifully after washing – ideal for blankets or wearables you'll treasure for years.
Don't fret if Loopara isn't available in your area though. Any medium weight (category 4) yarn will do the trick nicely. Cotton, wool, or acrylic blends all work well – just look for colors that inspire you. For that classic African Flower vibe, try pairing deep blue, bright red, and crisp white like in our example. Of course, half the fun is experimenting with your own unique color combinations!
As for hooks, I typically reach for a 2.0mm size. These create a nice, tight stitch that really showcases the intricate flower design. If you know you tend to crochet on the tight side, consider going up a hook size. Conversely, if your stitches are usually on the looser side, you might want to size down slightly.
One of the things I love most about granny squares is how portable they are. You can easily toss your yarn and hook into a bag and work on them wherever you go – perfect for those moments when you're waiting at an appointment or riding the bus. They're also fantastic for using up those bits of leftover yarn from other projects. Before you know it, you'll have a stack of beautiful squares ready to be transformed into a stunning blanket, tote bag, or whatever your creative heart desires!
Materials needed for African Flower Granny Square
- Yarn – Loopara 4ply combed cotton (White 01, Blue 36 and Red 37)
- Hook – 2.0mm
- Stitch Marker
- Scissors
Abbreviations (US Terms)
- ch - chain
- dc - double crochet
- sl - slip stitch
- sc - single crochet
- tr - treble crochet
- hdc - half double crochet
- puff st - puff stitch
- sk - skip
How to Crochet an African Flower Granny Square – Step by Step
Round 1: Create a magic ring. Chain 3. Work 15 double crochets into the magic ring. Slip stitch to join to the top of the starting chain-3.
Round 2: Change color. Chain 3 (counts as first double crochet), double crochet, chain 1, 2 double crochets in the same stitch. Skip 1 stitch, repeat (2 double crochets, chain 1, 2 double crochets) in next stitch 7 more times. Slip stitch to join to the top of the starting chain-3.
Round 3: Slip stitch. Chain 3, 6 double crochet in the same space. Repeat (7 double crochets) 7 times. Slip stitch to join to the top of the starting chain-3.
Round 4: Change color. Repeat (7 single crochets, double crochet) 8 times. Slip stitch into the first single crochet.
Round 5: Change color again. Repeat (4 single crochets, skip 2, [chain 1, 3-treble bobble stitch, chain 3, 3-treble bobble stitch, chain 1], skip 2, 4 single crochets, skip 1, half double crochet, skip 1) 4 times. Slip stitch into the first single crochet.
Round 6: Chain 2, 6 half double crochets, [3 double crochets, chain 2, 2 half double crochets], repeat (13 half double crochets, [3 double crochets, chain 2, 2 half double crochets]) 3 times, 7 half double crochets. Slip stitch into the top of the starting chain-2. Fasten off and weave in ends.
Tips: When crocheting your African Flower Granny Square, maintain consistent tension for a flat result. Weave in ends as you go for a neater finish. Practice the puff stitch before round 5 to nail that signature texture. You can use stitch markers to keep track of your rounds.
How to Join Granny Squares
Granny squares are perfect for bags, clothing, and blankets. If you're thinking of making one with those squares, I'm excited to share my comprehensive guide on 11 Ways to Join Granny Squares with you! I've detailed every method I know and love - each brings its own special touch to your finished piece. Let me help you discover which one works best for you!
How to Change Colors in a Granny Square
Are you looking for a different color palette? I totally get it—it’s why I love crochet! If you’re not crazy about our color palette, I put together two color-changing techniques that I use for all of my projects. Let me show you how to make these color transitions smooth and professional so you can bring your unique, creative vision to life.
How to Weave in Ends Crochet Granny Square
The secret for professional-looking granny squares is all about how you weave in those ends. I'm sharing 3 ways to weave in ends with you! These are techniques I've perfected over years of crocheting and use in all my projects. I'll show you exactly how I secure my ends to make sturdy, polished pieces that last. Trust me, once you master these finishing methods, your granny squares will look absolutely stunning!
Care instructions
Proper care and maintenance are essential for preserving the beauty and integrity of your African Flower Granny Squares. To ensure optimal condition, hand washing is strongly recommended. Use lukewarm water and a pH-neutral, wool-safe detergent. Gently submerge the squares, avoiding agitation, and rinse thoroughly with cool water until all soap residue is removed. For stubborn stains, spot-clean carefully before washing.
After washing, remove excess water by gently pressing the squares between clean towels, never wringing or twisting the fabric. Lay the squares flat on a clean, dry towel or blocking mat, reshaping while damp to maintain correct dimensions and angles. Allow to air dry completely away from direct heat sources or sunlight.
Store your granny squares in a cool, dry environment to prevent moisture accumulation and potential mold growth. Use acid-free tissue paper between layers when stacking multiple squares to prevent color transfer and maintain shape. Opt for breathable storage solutions such as cotton bags or cardboard boxes lined with acid-free paper, avoiding plastic containers.
To preserve the shape of your squares, consider blocking them after washing or if they become misshapen over time. Use rust-proof pins and a blocking board for precise results. To maintain color vibrancy, store projects away from direct sunlight and use color catchers when washing multi-colored pieces together.
Periodically inspect your stored granny squares for signs of pest damage or discoloration. If storing for extended periods, refold items occasionally to prevent permanent creasing. For finished projects, such as blankets or garments, follow specific care instructions based on the yarn composition and project use.
By adhering to these care instructions, you can ensure that your African Flower Granny Squares remain a cherished part of your crochet collection for years to come, maintaining their original beauty and structural integrity.
What's Next
Love how your African Flower Granny Square turned out? Share the joy! Post a pic on Instagram, pin it on Pinterest, tweet your creation, or show it off on Facebook. Let's inspire more crocheters to try this beautiful pattern. Don't forget to tag us and use #AfricanFlowerSquare. Happy sharing!
