Welcome to this adorable paw print granny square pattern! Whether you're a cat person, dog lover, or just enjoy unique crochet designs, this intermediate-level project is perfect for adding a playful touch to your creations. Each square measures approximately 3.3 inches when completed.
These charming paw prints can be combined to make anything from pet blankets and cushion covers to cozy scarves – let your imagination run wild! I'll guide you through each step with detailed photos and diagrams, so even if you're new to special granny square patterns, you'll be able to follow along easily. Let's get started!
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Recommended Yarn and Crochet Hooks
Let's talk about the perfect materials to create these charming paw print squares that'll make your projects truly special!
For this lovely paw print pattern, I highly recommend using Loopara milk cotton yarn. This yarn is absolutely perfect for these squares – it creates beautiful stitch definition that makes your paw print motif really pop, while still maintaining that soft, pleasant feel! What I particularly love about this yarn is how it holds its shape after washing, ensuring your paw prints stay crisp and defined over time.
You'll need four colors of yarn to create these paw print squares. The choice of colors is entirely up to you – this is where you can really let your creativity shine and make each square uniquely yours. Having four different colors gives you plenty of options to create beautiful contrasts and patterns within each square.
We'll be using a 2.3mm crochet hook for this pattern. This hook size pairs perfectly with the Loopara milk cotton yarn, helping you achieve those clean, well-defined stitches that make our paw prints look so polished and professional. The combination creates just the right tension, giving your squares that perfect balance of structure and drape.
I just love how these squares work up – they're satisfying to create, and the yarn's smooth texture makes every stitch a joy to work with. Trust me, once you start making these sweet paw prints, you won't want to stop!
Materials needed for Paw Print Granny Square
- Yarn – Loopara 4ply combed cotton (Red 61, Purple 74, Khaki 85 and Brown 88)
- Hook – 2.3mm
- Scissors
- Stitch marker
- Hot melt adhesive
Abbreviations (US Terms)
- Magic ring
- ch - chain
- sl - slip stitch
- sc - single crochet
- dc - double crochet
- tr - treble crochet
- hdc - half double crochet
- dc inc - double crochet increase
- sc inc - single crochet increase
- dc2tog - double crochet 2 together
- sk - skip
- BLO - back loops only
- FLO - front loops only
How to Crochet a Paw Print Granny Square – Step by Step
How to Crochet the Base
Round 1: Start with a magic ring. Chain 4, then work 3 double crochet into the ring. Chain 2, work 3 double crochet, followed by 1 treble crochet. Chain 1, then work 9 single crochet. Remember to close the magic ring tightly to ensure no hole remains in the center.
Round 2: Begin with chain 3 and double crochet, then work 3 double crochet. Work 5 double crochet, followed by 3 double crochet. Work a double crochet increase, then 5 double crochet. Continue with 7 double crochet, then 5 double crochet. Complete with a slip stitch and fasten off. Keep your tension consistent for a neat square shape.
Round 3: Working in front loops only, start with chain 3 and double crochet. Work a double crochet increase, then 2 double crochet. Work 3 double crochet, followed by 2 double crochet. Work 2 double crochet increases, then chain and turn. Skip 1 stitch, work 3 half double crochet. Skip 1 stitch, work a single crochet. Skip 1 stitch, work 5 double crochet. Skip 1 stitch, work a single crochet. Skip 1 stitch, work 5 double crochet. Skip 1 stitch, work a single crochet. Skip 1 stitch, work 3 half double crochet. Finish with a slip stitch. This round creates texture for the paw print detail.
Round 4: Chain and turn, then work a single crochet. Repeat (3 single crochet in next stitch, 2 single crochet, slip stitch, 2 single crochet) 3 times. Work 3 single crochet increase stitch, followed by 2 single crochet. Work 5 single crochet, then 2 sets of 3 single crochet in next stitch. Work 9 single crochet, followed by 2 sets of 3 single crochet in next stitch. Complete with 6 single crochet and slip stitch. This round shapes the paw print outline.
Round 5: Change to new color. Working in back loops only, chain 6, skip 2 stitches. Work 3 double crochet, skip 2 stitches. Chain 6, slip stitch and fasten off. The color change adds dimension to your square.
Round 6: Working in front loops, make single crochet, half double crochet, treble crochet. In back loops, work (5 double crochet, chain 3, 4 double crochet). Work 3 double crochet, then (4 double crochet, chain 3, 5 double crochet). Work treble crochet. In back loops, work half double crochet, single crochet, and slip stitch.
Round 7: Chain 4, work 3 treble crochet, skip 1 stitch. Work (treble crochet, chain 3, treble crochet), treble crochet, skip 1 stitch. Work 11 double crochet, skip 1 stitch. Work treble crochet, (treble crochet, chain 3, treble crochet), treble crochet, skip 1 stitch. Work 3 treble crochet, 8 treble crochet. Work (2 treble crochet, chain 3, 2 treble crochet), 11 treble crochet. Work (2 treble crochet, chain 3, 2 treble crochet), 8 treble crochet, slip stitch.
Round 8: Chain, then repeat {5 single crochet, (5 single crochet), 10 single crochet} 4 times.
Round 9: Chain, then repeat (7 single crochet, 3 single crochet in next stitch, 12 single crochet) 4 times.
How to Crochet the Paw
Round 1: Chain 10, work 3 single crochet in second chain from hook, work 7 single crochet, work 6 single crochet, work (half double crochet, double crochet), work double crochet decrease, work (5 treble crochet), work double crochet decrease, work (double crochet, half double crochet), work 3 single crochet in last stitch, slip stitch.
How to Crochet the Toe (Make 4)
Round 1: Chain 3, single crochet in second chain from hook, work (5 single crochet), work (4 single crochet), slip stitch. Weave in all ends securely.
Tips: Remember to keep your magic ring tight and secure for a neat center. Work your stitches evenly around the ring to maintain good tension and shape.
Paw Print Granny Square Assemble
Step 1: Attach toes to corresponding positions on paw.
Tips: Position paw print toes evenly across the top of the paw pad, ensuring symmetrical placement.
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 some helpful tips for keeping your paw print granny squares looking beautiful for years to come!
When it comes to washing your squares, gentle hand washing is the way to go to maintain the crisp definition of the paw print design. Use a mild detergent and lukewarm water, gently squeezing the water through the squares. Avoid wringing or twisting, as this can distort the shape and loosen your careful stitching.
For drying, resist the temptation to hang your squares! Wet yarn can stretch under its own weight, potentially distorting your carefully crafted shapes. Instead, lay your squares flat on a clean towel, gently pat them into shape, and let them air dry completely. If you're blocking your squares (which I recommend for the best results), this is the perfect time to do it.
For storage, keep your squares in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent color fading. I recommend storing them flat if possible, rather than folded, to maintain their shape. If you need to stack them, place tissue paper between each square to prevent the stitches from catching on each other. Natural fibers need to breathe, so opt for a cotton storage bag or box instead of plastic containers.
To maintain the vibrancy of your colors over time, especially if you've used multiple colors for contrast, always wash your squares with similar colors. And here's a pro tip: adding a cup of white vinegar to the first wash helps set the colors and prevents bleeding. The vinegar smell will disappear once the squares dry, I promise!
Remember, well-cared-for granny squares can last for generations, so these extra steps are absolutely worth the effort.
What’s Next?
Enjoyed creating these adorable paw print squares? Share your creative journey with fellow crocheters! Pin this pattern on Pinterest, post your finished squares on Instagram, share the joy on Facebook, or tweet about your crafting adventure on Twitter. Can't wait to see your unique color combinations and creative projects! #CrochetPawPrint #GrannySquareLove
