Learn Crochet: Modern Granny Square Tutorial

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Materials Required
3. Getting Started
   • Magic Ring (or Chain Two)
   • Round One
   • Round Two
4. The Irish Stitch
   • Double V Stitch
   • Creating the Corner
   • Placing Stitch Markers
5. Repetition of the Main Pattern
   • Rounds Five and Six
   • Working the Corners
6. Finishing the Blanket
7. Conclusion
8. FAQ
9. Resources
10. About the Author

Crochet the Iris in a Square Stitch

Crocheting is a popular and relaxing hobby that allows you to create beautiful and functional items. In this tutorial, I will show you how to crochet the iris in a square stitch. This is a modern version of the granny square, but with a unique twist - we will be using the Irish Stitch.

Materials Required

Before we get started, it is important to gather all the necessary materials. For this project, you will need:

• Worsted weight yarn (number four)
• Crochet hook (5.5mm)
• Stitch markers (optional, but helpful for identifying corners)

Getting Started

To begin crocheting the iris in a square stitch, we will start with a few setup rounds. If you're comfortable with the magic ring technique, go ahead and use it. Otherwise, you can simply chain two and work the first round into the second chain from the hook.

Magic Ring (or Chain Two)

The magic ring is a technique used to start crocheting in the round. To create a magic ring, follow these steps:

1. Hold the end of the yarn in your hand, leaving a long tail.
2. Cross the yarn over your hand, creating an "X."
3. Insert your hook under the first strand of the "X" and grab the second strand with your hook.
4. Pull the second strand through the first strand, creating a loop.
5. Chain one to secure the loop.
6. Work the required stitches into the loop.

Round One

In this round, we will create the foundation for our square by working single crochet stitches and chain two spaces. Here's how to do it:

1. Make a magic ring (or chain two if you prefer).
2. Chain one and work one single crochet into the ring.
3. Chain two.
4. Repeat steps 2-3 three more times for a total of four chain two spaces.
5. Pull the ring tight, making sure all the stitches are snug.
6. Slip stitch into the first single crochet to close the round.

Round Two

In round two, we will start working the Irish Stitch, which is a double V stitch made with double crochet stitches. Here's how to do it:

1. Slip stitch into the next chain two space.
2. Chain three (this counts as one double crochet).
3. Work another double crochet into the same chain two space.
4. Chain one.
5. Work two more double crochet stitches into the same chain two space.
6. This completes your first double V stitch.
7. Chain two to create the corner and place a stitch marker around the chain two.
8. Skip the next single crochet stitch.
9. Repeat steps 2-8 two more times to create two more double V stitches and corners.
10. Slip stitch into the top of the chain three to close the round.

The Irish Stitch

The Irish Stitch is the main stitch used in this pattern, and it creates a beautiful double V design. It is made up of two double crochet stitches, chain one, and another two double crochet stitches, all worked into the same space. This stitch is great for creating soft blankets and garments.

Double V Stitch

To crochet the double V stitch, follow these steps:

1. Chain three (this counts as one double crochet).
2. Work one more double crochet into the same space.
3. Chain one.
4. Work two more double crochet stitches into the same space.
5. This completes your double V stitch.

Creating the Corner

In this pattern, we will be working corners with chain three spaces. This ensures that our square stays even and symmetrical. To create a corner, follow these steps:

1. After completing your double V stitch, chain two.
2. Place a stitch marker around the chain two to easily identify the corners.

Placing Stitch Markers

To make it easier to identify the corners as you work, you can use stitch markers. Simply place a stitch marker around the chain two that forms the corner. This will help you keep track of where you need to work your stitches in the next round.

Repetition of the Main Pattern

After the initial setup rounds, we will repeat a pattern consisting of rounds five and six. These two rounds form the main pattern of the iris in a square stitch.

Rounds Five and Six

Rounds five and six will be repeated until you reach your desired size for the blanket or project you are working on. It's important to finish with round six to complete the pattern.

Working the Corners

In each round, we will be working corners using the chain three spaces. This creates a neat and even shape for your square. To work the corners, follow these steps:

1. Slip stitch into the first four stitches of the round and then into the marked chain one space.
2. Remove the stitch marker.
3. Chain three (this counts as one double crochet).
4. Work one double crochet into the chain three space.
5. Chain three.
6. Work another two double crochet stitches into the same chain three space.
7. Place your stitch marker into the chain three space.
8. Continue with the pattern, working double V stitches into the chain one spaces and repeating the corner stitches in each corner of the square.

Finishing the Blanket

Once you have repeated the main pattern for the desired number of times and reached your desired size, you can finish off your blanket. Slip stitch into the top of the beginning chain three to close the round. Fasten off and weave in any loose ends.

Conclusion

Crocheting the iris in a square stitch is a fun and rewarding project. Whether you're making a blanket, garment, or any other item, this stitch adds a modern twist to the traditional granny square. With practice, you can create beautiful and unique crocheted pieces that showcase your creativity and skill.

FAQ

Q: Can I use a different weight of yarn for this pattern? A: While the pattern is designed for worsted weight yarn, you can experiment with different yarn weights to achieve different results. Keep in mind that using a different weight may affect the size and drape of the finished project.

Q: Do I have to use a magic ring to start the project? A: No, if you're not comfortable with the magic ring technique, you can start with a chain two and work the first round into the second chain from the hook.

Q: How do I change colors in this pattern? A: To change colors, simply fasten off the previous color at the end of the round and join the new color in the next stitch or space. Be sure to weave in the loose ends to secure them.

Q: Can I make this project larger or smaller? A: Yes, you can easily adjust the size of the project by repeating or omitting the main pattern rounds. Keep in mind that changing the size will also affect the amount of yarn needed.

Q: Where can I find more crochet patterns and tutorials? A: There are many online resources and websites where you can find a variety of crochet patterns and tutorials. Some popular platforms include Ravelry, Pinterest, and YouTube.

Resources

For more information and detailed instructions on crocheting the iris in a square stitch, you can visit my blog, Made by Gucci. There you will find step-by-step photo tutorials, as well as written instructions for this pattern and many others.

About the Author

[Insert brief author bio here]

Highlights

• Learn how to crochet the iris in a square stitch using the Irish Stitch
• Create beautiful blankets and garments with the double V stitch
• Use stitch markers to easily identify corners in your project
• Adjust the size of your project by repeating or omitting the main pattern rounds