A granny square is a classic crochet pattern. This humble design lays the foundation for many exquisite projects that beginners to experienced makers can easily craft with any single-ended crochet hook. The beautiful pattern works for various projects, from bags, clothing, and blankets to home decor. Crocheting a bag opens up exciting options, from a simple coin purse to sling bags, totes and more. Bring together the fun of bag-making with granny squares and have a creative crafting session. In this blog, let’s walk you through simple steps to crochet a granny square bag. So, grab your crochet hooks and yarn to get started.
Step 1: Planning your bag design
A bag design is easy to plan if you are comfortable with basic crochet stitches and techniques. You can work with 8-10 granny squares and seam them together to shape your bag in any shape or size. Another option is to create two or three big squares and fashion out a tote or a sling bag. If you know how to read a crochet pattern, you can follow the instructions of any pattern designer.
To get started, you can work with any of your crochet hooks. If you have an interchangeable Tunisian crochet hook, you can efficiently work with them. Keep crochet accessories such as stitch markers, finishing needles, sharp scissors, etc., handy for a smooth crafting session.
For yarn, you can browse through stash leftover from previous projects. The multiple colourful pieces can be used to create a vibrant fabric. This also gets you rid of the extra stash and shows off your creativity.
Step 2: Set the foundation
- Start with a basic granny square. If you are new to crocheting you only need to know basic stitches such as chain stitch, double crochet (DC), and slip stitch (sl.st.).
- Generally, you will start with a slip knot.
- Next, work out on a foundation chain by making chain stitches. The number of chains will determine the size of your granny square and need to be planned beforehand.
- If you are aware of the magic loop technique, it is a good option as it omits the hole formed while working with a slip knot.
- Now you have to join the chain by making a slip stitch into the first chain stitch and form a ring.
- Start with working on the corners. As you make 3 chain stitches (it counts as the first double crochet stitch), then insert your crochet hook and work 2 DC (double crochet stitches) into the ring. With this step you have created your first corner of the square.
- Continue the sides by working chain and double crochet stitches into the ring. Repeat this sequence two more times for the remaining three corners and sides of your first round.
- To close the round, insert your crochet hook and chain 2 and slip stitch into the top of the starting chain 3.
- Continue repeating the sequence of chain stitches and double crochet stitches (DC) for each subsequent round until your granny square reaches the desired size.
- Repeat the pattern to continue with granny squares.
Step 3: Assembling and Seaming the Granny Squares
Once you have the required number of granny squares, assemble them in the shape of your bag. To seam the squares, choose an invisible seaming method using your crochet hook or a finishing needle. Seam the three sides while leaving one side of the bag open, which you can accessorize with a zipper or a drawstring.
Step 4: Attaching a handle
You can assemble small granny squares in a length for a unique handle design. An I-cord can also be an exciting design and a sturdy option.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
Block your project to add finishing touches. The blocking process will help the yarn bloom and display the beauty of the pattern.
With this, create wonderful granny square bags suitable for all occasions. Enjoy your crafting with wooden crochet hooks from the Lantern Moon Collection. For more information, explore tips on seamless joins in crochet rounds.
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