Welcome to the charming world of Cat Granny Squares! This delightful pattern is perfect for beginner to intermediate crocheters, resulting in an adorable 3-inch square that captures the essence of feline cuteness.
Imagine a cozy blanket covered in soft cat paw prints or a playful cushion that brings a touch of whimsy to your home. These versatile squares are purr-fect for cat lovers and craft enthusiasts alike.
In this guide, we'll walk you through each step with clear instructions and helpful diagrams. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, you'll be creating a trail of cute cat paws in no time. Let's grab our hooks and embark on this paw-some crochet adventure!
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Pin this Cat Granny Square tutorial and get ready to add a touch of feline charm to your crochet projects!
Recommended Yarn and Crochet Hooks
For the Cat Granny Square project, selecting appropriate yarn and hook size is crucial for achieving the desired results.
Yarn choice plays a significant role in both the aesthetics and functionality of the finished square. While various yarn types can be used, Loopara milk cotton yarn is highly recommended for its softness, durability, and vibrant color options. This yarn type is particularly well-suited for granny squares due to its smooth texture and ability to hold its shape well.
For this project, we suggest using Loopara milk cotton yarn in a soft pink shade for the paw pads and a light purple for the background. However, crafters are encouraged to experiment with different color combinations to suit their preferences or project needs. You might try a classic gray and white combination for a realistic look, or bold contrasting colors for a more playful style.
Regarding hook size, a 2.3mm crochet hook is recommended for achieving the standard 3-inch square size. This hook size allows for a tight, neat stitch that helps maintain the shape of the paw print design.
Granny squares, including this Cat design, are popular among crocheters for several reasons. They are portable, making them ideal for on-the-go crafting. Additionally, their modular nature allows for easy customization of larger projects. Granny squares are also an excellent way for beginners to practice basic crochet stitches while creating useful and decorative items.
By using these recommended materials, crocheters can create charming Cat Granny Squares that are both visually appealing and durable.
Materials needed for Cat Granny Square
- Yarn– Loopara 4ply combed cotton (Pink 57 and Purple 74)
- Hook- 2.3mm
- Stitch Marker
- Scissors
Abbreviations (US Terms)
- ch - chain
- sc - single crochet
- dc - double crochet
- tr - treble crochet
- hdc - half double crochet
- inc - increase (specifically, sc inc and dc inc)
- sl st - slip stitch
- FPdc - Front Post double crochet
- Magic ring
- Popcorn stitch
How to Crochet a Cat Granny Square – Step by Step
Round 1: (Using purple yarn) Magic ring. Chain 3, work 15 double crochet in ring. Slip stitch to join.
Round 2: Chain, Single crochet, (Half double crochet, double crochet increase), 2 treble crochet increases, (Double crochet increase, half double crochet), Single crochet, (Half double crochet, double crochet), (Double crochet, treble crochet), (Treble crochet, double crochet), (Double crochet, half double crochet), Single crochet, (Half double crochet, double crochet increase), 2 treble crochet increases, (Double crochet increase, half double crochet), Single crochet, Slip stitch to join.
Round 3: (Change to pink yarn) Chain, 3 single crochet, 5 single crochet increases, Single crochet, Single crochet, Popcorn stitch, 6 single crochet increases, Popcorn stitch, 2 single crochet, 5 single crochet increases, 3 single crochet. Finish with an invisible join.
How to Crochet the Purple Yarn section
Start from 3rd row red text single crochet stitch.
Round 1: Chain 2, double crochet increase, 3 double crochet in 1 stitch, skip 3, 2 (3 double crochet in 1 stitch), skip 4, 2 (3 double crochet in 1 stitch), skip 3, (double crochet increase, half double crochet), turn, slip stitch.
Round 2: Skip, 2 (3 double crochet in 1 stitch), slip stitch in large hole, (skip 2, 2 (3 double crochet in 1 stitch), slip stitch in large hole) twice, skip 2, 2 (3 double crochet in 1 stitch), slip stitch to last stitch of 1st row, fasten off.
How to Crochet the Claw
Round 1: [2 single crochet, 2 single crochet increase, 2 single crochet, Front Post double crochet in single crochet of previous row] 3 times, 2 single crochet, 2 single crochet increase, 2 single crochet, slip stitch.
Round 2: Chain, single crochet, chain 3, skip 3, single crochet, chain 3, skip 3, single crochet, chain 3, skip 3, single crochet, chain 3, skip 3, single crochet, chain 3, skip 3, single crochet, chain, skip 3, half double crochet, chain, turn.
Round 3: Single crochet in large hole, chain 5, single crochet in large hole, chain 3, single crochet in large hole, chain 3, single crochet in large hole, chain 5, single crochet, chain 3, skip 3, single crochet, chain 3, skip 3, single crochet, skip 3, treble crochet, [treble crochet, chain 3, double crochet], chain 3, skip 3, single crochet, chain 3, skip 5, single crochet (middle finger stitch), chain 3, skip 3, [double crochet, chain 3, treble crochet], treble crochet, skip 3, single crochet (middle finger stitch), chain 3, skip 3, single crochet, chain, half double crochet (in first red text single crochet), chain 2, turn.
Round 4: [Treble crochet in large hole, single crochet increase], chain, [single crochet in large hole, half double crochet], chain, [3 treble crochet in large hole, chain 3, 3 treble crochet in large hole], chain, 3 double crochet in large hole, chain, 3 double crochet in large hole, chain, 3 double crochet in large hole, chain, [3 treble crochet in large hole, chain 3, 3 treble crochet in large hole], [treble crochet in large hole, single crochet increase], chain, [single crochet increase in large hole, half double crochet], chain, [3 treble crochet in large hole, chain 3, 3 treble crochet in large hole], chain, 3 double crochet in large hole, chain, 3 double crochet in large hole, chain, [3 treble crochet in large hole, chain 3, 3 treble crochet in large hole], chain, slip stitch.
Tips: Maintain consistent tension throughout, especially in the paw pad and claw details. Loosen chain stitches if work curls.
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 is essential to maintain the quality and appearance of your Cat Granny Square over time. By following these recommendations, you can ensure your crochet work remains beautiful and durable for years to come.
When it comes to washing, always check the yarn label for specific care instructions. In general, hand washing is the safest method for crochet items. Use cool water and a mild, wool-safe detergent. Gently agitate the square without wringing or twisting. Rinse thoroughly with cool water, avoiding sudden temperature changes which can cause shrinkage. To remove excess water, press the square gently between clean towels.
After washing, lay the square flat on a clean, dry towel away from direct sunlight or heat sources. This is the perfect time to reshape your work. Gently adjust the square while it's damp, paying special attention to the paw print details. For precise shaping, you can pin the square to a foam board, ensuring it dries in the correct form.
Proper storage is crucial for maintaining your granny squares. Keep them in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight to prevent color fading. If you're storing multiple squares together, place acid-free tissue paper between them to avoid color transfer. Consider using breathable cotton bags rather than plastic containers to prevent moisture buildup.
To keep colors vibrant, try adding a cup of white vinegar to the rinse water during washing. This natural fix helps set the dye and maintain color intensity. For stubborn stains, spot clean gently with a soft brush and mild detergent solution.
Regularly inspect your work for any loose threads or stitches and repair them promptly to prevent unraveling. If your square becomes misshapen over time, you can reblock it by dampening and reshaping as described in the drying process.
By following these care instructions, your Cat Granny Square will remain a cherished part of your crochet collection, retaining its charm and quality for years to come.
What’s Next?
Calling all crochet enthusiasts! It's time to show off your Cat Granny Square skills. Snap a pic of your purr-fect creation and share it across Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, or Twitter. Use #CatGrannySquare to connect with fellow crafters worldwide. Whether it's your first attempt or your hundredth square, your journey can inspire others. Let's create a virtual cat café of crochet cuteness online, one post at a time. Share your color combos, tips, and creative uses – together, we'll keep the crochet community pawsitively thriving!
