Are you ready to level up your crochet game? The join-as-you-go granny square technique is a delightful intermediate-level project that will transform the way you create blankets, bags, and home decor. No more tedious sewing of squares together – each 2.2-inch mini square connects seamlessly as you work!
This colorful pattern features a charming flower-like design in the center. Whether you're making a baby blanket, a throw pillow, or a boho-style tote bag, these squares work up quickly and look stunning when combined.
Follow along with my detailed photos and step-by-step instructions – I'll guide you through every stitch of the process!
Pin for later
Save this sweet square tutorial - this seamless joining method is a total game-changer for your crochet projects!
Recommended Yarn and Crochet Hooks
For the yarn, I absolutely love using Loopara milk cotton yarn for this pattern. Its silky-smooth texture and gorgeous stitch definition make every flower motif pop beautifully. Milk cotton yarn is perfect for granny squares because it's lightweight, durable, and holds its shape wonderfully after blocking.
You'll want to grab two sets of colors: vibrant shades for your flower centers and lighter, coordinating colors for the backgrounds. I recommend choosing 4 bold colors like sunny orange, royal blue, deep purple, and emerald green for the flowers, paired with softer pastel versions of each for a harmonious look.
For this delicate design, I use a 2.0mm crochet hook, which creates precise, dainty stitches that really showcase the pretty flower pattern.
Then, what makes granny squares so special? They're incredibly versatile - you can create anything from cozy blankets to stylish bags, or even fashionable garments. These small squares are perfect for portable crafting, letting you work on your project anywhere.
Best of all, you can play with endless color combinations to create your own unique design. Whether you're a beginner looking to practice basic stitches or an experienced crocheter wanting to use up yarn scraps, granny squares are always a rewarding project!
Materials needed for Join As You Go Granny Square
- Yarn – Loopara 4ply combed cotton (Green 08, Green 17, Blue 32, Blue 34, Yellow 44, Orange 50, Purple 74, and Purple 78)
- Hook – 2.0mm
- Scissors
- Stitch Marker
Abbreviations (US Terms)
- ch - chain
- sl - slip stitch
- dc - double crochet
- hdc - half double crochet
- bo - bobble stitch
- inc - increase
- st - stitch
How to Crochet a Join As You Go Granny Square – Step by Step
How to Crochet the Main Body (Make 4)
Round 1: Make a magic ring, chain 3 (counts as double crochet), 11 double crochet into the ring, slip stitch in top of chain-3 (12 double crochet).
Round 2: Change color, [chain 3, 2 double crochet bobble], chain 2, (bobble stitch, chain 2) 11 times, slip stitch in top of chain-3.
Round 3: Change color, [chain 3, 2 double crochet, chain 3, 3 double crochet], (3 half double crochet in 1 stitch) 2 times, (3 double crochet, chain 3, 3 double crochet, (3 half double crochet in 1 stitch) 2 times) 3 times, slip stitch in top of chain-3, fasten off.
Tips: Work all 3 rounds for the first main body, and only 2 rounds for the remaining 3 main bodies.
How to Join the Main Body
Main Body 2: [Chain 3, 2 double crochet, chain 3, slip stitch in the corner of main body 1, 3 double crochet], slip stitch in main body 1, 3 half double crochet in 1 stitch, slip stitch in main body 1, 3 half double crochet in 1 stitch, slip stitch in main body 1, [3 double crochet, chain 3, slip stitch in main body 1, 3 double crochet], complete Round 3 as normal, fasten off.
Main Body 3: Repeat the main body 2 joining process, fasten off.
Main Body 4: Join to the main body 2 and 3 following the main body 2 joining process, fasten off.
Final Round: Chain, [single crochet increase, 12 single crochet, (2 single crochet, chain 2, 2 single crochet), 12 single crochet, 2 single crochet] 4 times (change color each repeat using invisible join), fasten off, weave in ends.
Tips: Keep your tension steady when making slip stitches during joining - too tight will make your squares pucker, too loose will leave gaps. The joining sequence matters: complete main body 1 first, then join main body 2 to it, followed by main body 3, and finally main body 4 to create your four-square panel.
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
Let me share my best care tips to keep your flower granny squares looking gorgeous for years to come!
When it comes to washing, I always recommend hand-washing your finished piece in cool water with a gentle detergent specifically made for delicate fibers. Even though milk cotton yarn is machine washable, hand-washing helps preserve those beautiful stitch definitions and keeps your squares looking crisp. Gently squeeze out excess water - never wring or twist! - and lay flat to dry on a clean towel. Reshape your squares while they're still damp to maintain those perfect corners and even edges.
Here's a storage secret I've learned over years of crocheting: store your finished piece folded flat in a cotton bag or pillowcase, never in plastic. This allows the yarn to breathe and prevents any musty odors or unwanted moisture. I also recommend keeping it away from direct sunlight to prevent color fading, especially important for those vibrant flower centers we worked so hard to create!
To maintain the shape over time, I suggest giving your piece a gentle blocking session once or twice a year, depending on how often it's used. Just a light steam or wet blocking will help reset the stitches and keep everything looking fresh. For color maintenance, washing in cool water and avoiding harsh detergents will keep those beautiful color combinations looking as bright as day one.
Remember, a well-cared-for crochet piece can become a cherished heirloom, so these extra care steps are totally worth it!
What’s Next?
Did this tutorial help you master the join-as-you-go technique? Share it on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, or Twitter! I'd love to see your colorful flower squares in action - tag us in your photos to show off your beautiful creations. Let's inspire more crocheters to try this magical joining method!
