Wool Goddess

When you think of cosy, handmade treasures, few items evoke the warmth, Hygge and nostalgia quite like a granny square crochet blanket. These iconic blankets, composed of vibrant, intricately designed squares, have adorned homes for generations. Whether draped over the back of a couch, layered on a bed, or wrapped around you on a chilly evening, granny square blankets are more than just a craft; they’re a piece of history, a creative outlet, and a comfort all rolled into one.

A Brief History of the Granny Square

The granny square’s roots can be traced back many many years. What we consider to be the art of crochet today can be traced back to the 15th century. Many cultures claim to have “made it first” : America, France, Ireland, Africa, England, Italy, Arabia, and China. But the true birthplace of crochet remains unknown.

Irish workers during the potato famine were making crochet items for the wealthy as a means to survive and then emigrate from Ireland. Two million Irish immigrate to America bringing with them their vast experience with crochet.  American women then added crochet to their repertoire.

In 1829, the first crochet pattern was written by Mademoiselle Riego de la Branchardiere. The daughter of a French father and an Irish mother, she is known as the mother of crochet and said to be the creator of the Irish crochet style! 

The name “granny square” is believed to have originated in the 19th century as well, reflecting the tradition of grandmothers passing down their crochet skills through generations. The squares were traditionally sewn together by grandmothers. These squares became a symbol of domestic skill and creativity, embodying the resourcefulness and love that grandmothers often brought to their handmade creations.

Why Granny Square Blankets Are Perfect for All Skill Levels

One of the most appealing aspects of granny square blankets is their accessibility. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced crocheter, granny squares offer something for everyone. The basic square pattern is simple enough for novices to master, yet the possibilities for variation and complexity are endless, providing ample opportunities for more advanced crafters to experiment.

Beginners can start with the classic granny square, typically made with just a few rounds of double crochet stitches and chains. Once you’re comfortable with the basic square, you can start exploring different patterns, colours, and joining techniques to create a blanket that’s uniquely yours. For those looking to challenge themselves, there are countless ways to add texture, incorporate new stitches, or even design your own motifs.

The Joy of Personalisation

One of the most exciting aspects of creating a granny square blanket is the ability to personalise it. Every square can be a canvas for your creativity, and the final blanket becomes a mosaic of your imagination. You can mix and match colours to reflect a particular theme or mood, or even create a narrative through your choice of patterns and designs.

Colour selection plays a crucial role in the overall aesthetic of your blanket. You might opt for a rainbow of hues for a vibrant, eclectic look, or choose a more muted palette for a sophisticated, modern vibe. Some crafters prefer to stick to a specific colour scheme, while others embrace the randomness of using up yarn scraps, resulting in a unique, patchwork effect.

Beyond colour, there are endless ways to customise your granny squares. You can experiment with different yarn weights and textures, incorporate beads or embroidery, or vary the size of your squares to add visual interest. The joining method also offers another layer of personalisation; whether you opt for a seamless join, a decorative join, or even a contrasting border, the choice is yours.

The Meditative Nature of Crochet

Many crafters find that working on a granny square blanket is more than just a creative pursuit; it’s also a form of meditation. The repetitive nature of crochet, combined with the satisfaction of completing each square, can be incredibly soothing. It offers a chance to slow down, focus on the present moment, and take pleasure in the simple act of creating.

As you work on your blanket, you might find that it becomes a cherished ritual, a way to unwind after a long day or to connect with a loved one. Some people even crochet granny squares in honour of special occasions or milestones, imbuing their blankets with personal significance and memories.

Granny Square Blankets as Heirlooms

A handmade granny square blanket is more than just a functional item; it’s a potential heirloom. Because these blankets are so durable and timeless, they can be passed down through generations, carrying with them the stories and love of the hands that made them. Each blanket becomes a unique family treasure, a tangible link to the past and a comforting presence in the present.

Whether you’re making a granny square blanket for yourself, as a gift, or to start a new family tradition, you’re creating something that’s destined to be cherished. Every stitch, every square, is a testament to the time, care, and creativity invested in the project.

Finally….

Granny square crochet blankets are more than just a craft; they’re a celebration of creativity, tradition, and the joy of making something with your own hands. Whether you’re a seasoned crocheter or just picking up a hook for the first time, creating a granny square blanket offers a rewarding experience that combines artistic expression with the comfort of a handmade treasure.

So, grab your yarn, find a cosy spot, and start stitching your way to a beautiful, personalised granny square blanket. Who knows? You might just create the next beloved family heirloom.

Hope your day is magical and you notice the small precious moments.

Love & healing hugs