Overview:
Skill Level: Beginner
The Simple Square is a beginner-friendly crochet pattern with a clean and easy-to-follow structure.
It shares many traits with the classic granny square but offers a simpler look that’s just as versatile.
The beauty of this square lies in its adaptability, you can make it as small or large as you want and have fun experimenting with different yarns and color combinations.
Materials:
- Yarn: The example used Järbo Nova yarn, but you can use any yarn you prefer.
- Yarn Weight: Not specified, but the example suggests a light DK weight.
- Hook Size: A 3.5 mm hook was used for the sample. Choose a hook that matches your selected yarn’s recommended size.
- Other Tools: Scissors and a yarn needle for weaving in ends. Stitch markers are optional.
Finished Measurements:
With Järbo Nova yarn and a 3.5 mm hook, a seven-round square measures approximately 12 cm (4.75 inches). You can increase the size by continuing to repeat the final rounds.
Stitch Abbreviations (US Terms):
- Ch – Chain
- Dc – Double Crochet
- Sl st – Slip Stitch
- Sk – Skip
- St – Stitch
Pattern Notes:
- The square begins with a chain ring and grows outward in rounds.
- Every round starts with a chain 3 (counts as the first dc).
- Each round ends by joining with a sl st to the top of the starting ch-3.
- The pattern allows creative freedom with color. Change colors every round, every few rounds, or not at all.
- To make a larger square, alternate repeating Rounds 4 and 3 beyond Round 7.
Instructions for Making the The Simple Square Pattern:
Making the Square:
- Start: Ch 5. Join with a sl st to the first ch to form a ring.
- Round 1: Ch 3 (counts as 1 dc), 2 dc into ring, ch 3. 3 dc into ring, ch 3 – repeat from to two more times.
Join with sl st to top of starting ch-3. (You now have 4 sets of 3 dc clusters and 4 corner ch-3 spaces.)
- Round 2: Join yarn in any corner ch-3 space. Ch 4 (counts as 1 dc + ch 1), dc in next dc, ch 1, sk 1 st, dc in next dc, ch 1. (Dc, ch 3, dc) in corner, ch 1, dc in next dc, ch 1, sk 1, dc in next dc, ch 1 – repeat this sequence two more times. In final corner space: (dc, ch 3). Join with sl st to third ch of starting ch-4.
- Round 3: Join in the first dc along any side. Ch 3 (counts as 1 dc), then dc in each dc and ch-1 space until the corner.
In each ch-3 corner space: (2 dc, ch 3, 2 dc). Continue placing 1 dc in each dc and ch-1 space along each side, with (2 dc, ch 3, 2 dc) at corners. Join with sl st to top of starting ch-3.
- Round 4: Join yarn in any ch-3 corner space. Ch 4 (counts as 1 dc + ch 1), dc in next dc, ch 1, sk 1 st – repeat until you reach the last dc before the corner. Dc in last dc, ch 1.
In corner: (dc, ch 3, dc), ch 1. Repeat this around. On final corner, work (dc, ch 3). Join with sl st to third ch of starting ch-4.
- Round 5: Repeat Round 3: Work dc in all sts and ch-1 spaces along the side. Corners are (2 dc, ch 3, 2 dc). Join with sl st to top of beginning ch-3.
- Round 6: Repeat Round 4: Use ch-1 spacing between dcs. Corners are (dc, ch 3, dc), with a ch 1 before and after. Join with sl st to third ch of starting ch-4.
- Round 7: Repeat Round 3.
To Enlarge the Square:
Keep alternating Round 4 and Round 3. Round 4 adds spacing and texture, while Round 3 adds solid structure. This repeat creates a clean square that expands smoothly while maintaining its shape.
Tips for Success:
- Color Customization: This pattern looks especially beautiful when worked in multiple colors. Change color every round, every two rounds, or follow a rainbow theme like the original sample.
- Blocking: Light blocking will help even out the edges and define the shape, especially if your yarn tends to curl.
- Joining Squares: If making multiple squares for a blanket, consider the join-as-you-go method or seam them using a whip stitch or slip stitch.
Final Thoughts:
The Simple Square is a fantastic pattern to keep in your crochet toolkit. Its intuitive repeat and neat layout make it ideal for relaxing crochet sessions.
Whether you’re creating a large blanket, a tote bag, or even coasters, this square adapts beautifully to any project.
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