If you're a crochet enthusiast, you're probably familiar with the granny square. This classic design is a staple in crochet patterns, and it's easy to see why. Not only is it simple to make, but it's also incredibly versatile. Granny squares can be used to create anything from blankets to bags and even clothing. But what happens when you've made a bunch of granny squares and need to join them together? There are a few different methods to choose from, each with its own pros and cons. In this article, we'll explore three popular methods for joining granny squares, so you can pick the one that's right for your project. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced crocheter, these techniques will help you create beautiful, seamless joins that will make your project look polished and professional. So let's get started! Benefits of Joining Granny Squares Before we dive into the different methods for joining granny squares, let's first talk about why you might want to join them in the first place. One of the biggest benefits of joining granny squares is that it allows you to create larger, more complex projects with ease. Instead of making one massive crochet piece, you can break it down into smaller squares and then join them together. This makes it easier to handle the project and can also make it more portable. Another benefit of joining granny squares is that it allows you to create unique designs and patterns. By choosing different colors and joining methods, you can create a one-of-a-kind piece that's truly your own. Plus, joining granny squares can be a fun and relaxing activity that allows you to flex your creative muscles. Method 1: The Mattress Join Under Both Loops
Starting with both Granny Squares laying down with the right side facing up.
Using a tapestry/yarn needle and a cut strip of the yarn you want to use for the join, thread your yarn needle.
Place 2 granny squares side by side and find the corner turning chains. Insert your yarn needle from the bottom to top of first square corner, and through top to bottom of the joining square corner.
Tie a knot so the yarn doesn’t pull through. Remember to leave a long enough tail so that you can weave in your ends.
Taking your yarn needle right between the two squares or sections we want to join, insert yarn needle from bottom to top (under both loops) on one side. Then come back to the middle and go to the adjoining stitch space on the other square. Insert yarn needle from bottom to top (under both loops).
Repeat working from the middle going under the next stitch space from bottom to top back and forth like a zipper.
Adding More Squares:
When you are ready to add more squares, lay 2 more in sync with your current squares with the right side facing up.
Continue working the rhythmic join by finding the corner chains and inserting your yarn needle from the bottom to the top of the next square diagonal from where you are leaving the last square.
Then when working the next square over, find the turning chains in corner of square and work your yarn needle from the bottom to top. For best attachment, insert your yarn needle in the corner turning chains of the next square over that was already joined.
Then pull your yarn so that all 4 squares are connected with no gaps. Continue by finding the next stitch space of the new square and repeating the join.
Tying Off Your Join:
Working the join all the way to the last chain corner, insert your yarn needle from the front to back.
Turn your work so you are looking at the back.
Tie off your yarn leaving a long enough tail to weave in your ends.
Now your tie off is on the back and hidden away!
Hopping Over A Join:
Working the other direction joining your squares, when you come upon a corner join work over the previous join and insert your yarn needle from the bottom to top of the diagonal squares corner turning chain section and then continue working as normal.
Method 2: The Slip Stitch under Back Loop Only from the Front Side
Starting with both Granny Squares laying down with the right side facing up.
Taking the same crochet hook you used to make the squares, create a slip knot to place over your crochet hook.
Insert your crochet hook from the top to the bottom of the first squares corner stitch. Insert your crochet hook into the next square corner stitch from the bottom to the top. Yarn over and pull the yarn through all loops on your crochet hook. This will get the join started.
Now, look at the stitches along the sides of your work. You should see the V stitches. Insert your crochet hook from the top to the bottom of the next V stitch picking up the Back Loop Only.
Insert your crochet hook into the adjoining V stitch on the next square from the top to the bottom only picking up the Back Loop Only. (Have the yarn hang out below the squares so it is easier to pick up.)
Yarn over and pull the yarn through all loops on your crochet hook.
Continue this process across the squares, ending by making your last join stitch in the next corner turning chain.
Adding More Squares:
When you are ready to add more squares, lay 2 more in sync with your current squares with the right side facing up.
Continue working the rhythmic join by making your next join stitch into the diagonal squares corner turning chain, and then working the following stitch join into the next squares corner turning chain.
Continue working the joining method.
Tying Off Your Join:
Working the join all the way to the last chain corner.
Tie off your yarn leaving a long enough tail to weave in your ends.
Hopping Over A Join:
Working the other direction joining your squares, when you come upon a crossing join, continue working over the previous join by chaining one. This will help your work to lay flat.
Then find the corner turning chain of the square diagonal to where you are at and insert your crochet hook from the top to the bottom of that corner turning chain.
Find the corner turning chain of the adjoining square and insert your crochet hook from the top to the bottom of that corner chain.
Yarn over and pull yarn through all loops on your crochet hook.
Continue working this join as you have been.
Method 3: The Invisible Join
Start with both Granny Squares laying down with the right side facing up.
Using a tapestry/yarn needle and a cut strip of the same yarn you were using in your project, find the bottom corner turning chain, insert the yarn needle from the bottom to the top of that corner.
Go to the next square and find the corner turning chain and insert the yarn needle from the top to the bottom.
Tie a knot leaving a long enough tail to weave in your ends.
Take your two squares and fold them so the right side of the square is facing outward. Find the V stitches and insert your yarn needle into one V Stitch and have your needle pop out the following V stitch middle.
Go over to the adjoining square’s V stitches and insert your yarn needle into one V stitch and have it pop out the center of the next V stitch.
Repeat along the whole side.
End the squares by working your yarn needle into the Turning chain of the next corner.
Adding More Squares:
When you are ready to add more squares, lay 2 more in sync with your current squares with the right side facing up.
Continue working the rhythmic join by inserting your yarn needle into the corner turning chain of the diagonal square you are adding on.
Insert into the corner V stitch of chain and have the yarn needle pop out the middle of the next V stitch.
Go to the next square you are attaching and find the corner turning chains.
Insert yarn needle into the V stitch of the chain and have the yarn needle pop out the middle of the next V stitch.
Continue pattern stitch.
Tying Off Your Join:
Working the join all the way to the last chain corner, insert your yarn needle from the front to back.
Turn your work so you are looking at the back.
Tie off your yarn leaving a long enough tail to weave in your ends.
Now your tie off is on the back and hidden away!
Hopping Over A Join:
Working the other direction joining your squares, when you come upon a corner join, work through the previous join by inserting your yarn needle in the middle of the crossing join.
Then insert your yarn needle into the next corning turning chain V and pop through the middle of the next V stitch.
Continue working as normal, ideally you want to close any gap that is there in the cross section of the join. If you need to go back with your yarn needle to close any gaps, now is the best time to do so.
Choosing the Right Method for Your Project Now that you know three different methods for joining granny squares, how do you choose the right one for your project? There are a few factors to consider, such as the type of project you're making, the yarn you're using, and your personal preference.
Tips for Joining Granny Squares No matter which method you choose for joining your granny squares, there are a few tips that can help make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Lay out your squares in the pattern you want them to be joined before you start stitching.
Use a tapestry/yarn needle for the Mattress & Invisible Stitch joins and a crochet hook for the Slip Stitch Back Loop Only join method.
Weave in your ends as you go to avoid a tangled mess of yarn.
Choose a yarn that you've used in the project and makes your joins look seamless.
Take breaks if you start to feel frustrated or tired. Joining granny squares can be a repetitive task, so it's important to take care of your hands and mind.
Troubleshooting Common Issues Even with the best intentions and skills, joining granny squares can sometimes give you trouble. Here are some common issues and how to troubleshoot them:
Uneven edges: If your edges aren't lining up evenly, try blocking your squares before you join them. This can help even out any wonky edges.
Gaps or holes: If you're getting gaps or holes between your squares, try pulling your stitches a little tighter or using a smaller hook or needle.
Bulky seams: If your seams are adding too much bulk to your project, try using a lighter weight yarn or a different joining method.
Additional Resources: If you want to learn more about joining granny squares, there are plenty of resources available. You can watch my Granny Square Join Tutorial HERE. Or check out these other resources for additional information.
"The Granny Square Book" by Margaret Hubert
"Connect the Shapes Crochet Motifs" by Edie Eckman
"The Complete Photo Guide to Crochet" by Margaret Hubert
Pinterest or Ravelry
Joining granny squares might seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be a fun and rewarding experience. No matter which of these joins you choose, you can create beautiful, seamless joins that will make your project look polished and professional. So grab your yarn and get stitching!
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