Granny squares have always been a favorite among crocheters. They are versatile, timeless, and a great way to explore colors and textures in crochet projects. The Willow Granny Square is a beautiful variation that combines elegance with structure, making it perfect for blankets, cushion covers, table runners, or even garments.
One of the most wonderful things about granny squares is their endless variety. The Willow Granny Square stands out with its delicate openwork details and layered stitches that give it a unique, almost floral appearance. It’s the kind of square that looks beautiful on its own but becomes even more impressive when joined together in larger projects like afghans, bedspreads, or even wearable crochet items.
This pattern is worked in rounds, using multiple colors to highlight its lovely details. Whether you’re a beginner looking to expand your skills or an advanced crocheter searching for a creative new motif, this square will quickly become one of your go-to favorites. Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions!
Abbreviations (US Terms)
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ch – Chain
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st(s) – Stitch(es)
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sl st – Slip Stitch
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sc – Single Crochet
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dc – Double Crochet
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sk – Skip
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sps – Space(s)
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pm – Place Marker
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rep – Repeat
Willow Granny Square Pattern
Round 1 (Color A): Start with a magic ring (or ch 4, sl st to the first ch to form a circle). Ch 3 (counts as a dc), pm in the 3rd ch if needed. Work 15 dc into ring/circle. Join with a sl st to the 3rd ch. (16 dc sts)
Round 2 (Color A): Ch 4 (counts as a dc + ch1), pm in the 3rd ch, [1 dc, ch 1] in every st around. Join with a sl st to the 3rd ch. Fasten off Color A. (16 dc + ch1 sps)
Round 3 (Color B): Fasten on Color B in any dc st. Ch 3 (counts as a dc), pm in the 3rd ch, 2 dc in ch-1 sp, [1 dc in dc, 2 dc in ch-1 sp]. Rep around. Join with a sl st to the 3rd ch. (48 sts)
Round 4 (Color B): Ch 1, sc in same st, pm on first sc, [ch 5, sl st to 5th ch, sk 2 sts, sc in next st, ch 2, sk 2 sts, sc in next st, ch 3, sk 2 sts**, sc in next st, ch 2, sk 2 sts, sc in next st]. Rep between [ ] ending last repeat at **. Join with a sl st to first sc.
Round 5 (Color B): Sl st into next ch-5 sp. Ch 3 (counts as dc), pm in 3rd ch, [4 dc, ch 3, 5 dc] in same ch-5 sp, sc in ch-2 sp, 5 dc in ch-3 sp, sc in ch-2 sp*, [5 dc, ch 3, 5 dc] in ch-5 sp. Rep from * ending last repeat at **. Join with a sl st to 3rd ch. Fasten off Color B.
Round 6 (Color C): Fasten on Color C in any ch-3 sp. Ch 1, [sc, ch 3, sc] in same ch-3 sp, pm on first sc, ch 5, dc in next sc, ch 3, sk 2 dc, sc in next dc, ch 3, sk 2 dc, dc in next sc, ch 5 *, [sc, ch 3, sc] in next ch-3 sp. Rep from * ending last repeat at **. Join with a sl st to first sc.
Round 7 (Color C): Sl st into next ch-3 sp. Ch 3 (counts as dc), pm in 3rd ch, [2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc] in same ch-3 sp, 5 dc in next ch-5 sp, 3 dc in each of next two ch-3 sps, 5 dc in next ch-5 sp*, [3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc] in next ch-3 sp. Rep from * ending last repeat at **. Join with sl st to 3rd ch.
Round 8 (Color C): Ch 1, sc in every st around (pm on first sc), working [2 sc, ch 2, 2 sc] in each corner ch-2 sp. Join with sl st to first sc.
Round 9 (Color C): Ch 1, sc in every st around (pm on first sc), working 3 sc in each corner ch-2 sp. Join with sl st to first sc.
Tips for Success
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For a neat finish, weave in yarn ends after each color change.
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Play with colors: soft pastels for baby blankets, bold contrasts for modern throws, or neutral tones for a classic look.
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You can continue adding more rounds in dc or sc to enlarge the square if needed.
The Willow Granny Square Pattern is a stunning motif that brings together texture, color, and traditional crochet charm. With its combination of openwork stitches and solid sections, it can be adapted into countless projects, from small decorative pieces to large, cozy blankets. Start with just a few squares and watch your creativity grow into something truly unique!
Download Willow Granny Square Pattern (PDF)
✨ Save this pattern and experiment with colors to make your own set of Willow Granny Squares. It’s the perfect way to enjoy crochet, one motif at a time.
