Classic Granny Square Coaster

This simple granny square makes a lovely practice project. Make a few and try changing colors as you go! These instructions use US crochet terms.

Before you start

You’ll use a chain (ch), slip stitch (sl st), and double crochet (dc). A granny cluster is three double-crochet stitches worked into the same space.

Tip: Work the square loosely for your first try. You can tighten things up on the next one.

Step-by-step pattern

Round 1 — Make four corners

1. Make a magic ring. If that’s tricky, chain 4 and slip stitch to form a ring instead.
2. Chain 3 (counts as your first dc), then work 2 dc into the ring. Chain 2.
3. Repeat (3 dc, ch 2) into the ring three more times.
4. Pull the ring closed if you used a magic ring. Slip stitch to the top of the beginning chain 3 to join.

You should have four groups of three double-crochet stitches, with four chain-2 corner spaces.

Round 2 — Build the square

1. Slip stitch into the next corner space.
2. Chain 3 (counts as first dc); work 2 dc, chain 2, and 3 dc into that same corner. Chain 1.
3. In each of the next three corner spaces, work (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc), followed by chain 1.
4. Slip stitch into the top of the starting chain 3 to join.

Now your square should have eight granny clusters and four defined corners. Weave in the yarn ends.

Finishing touches

Gently shape your square and lightly block it if your yarn allows. For a larger coaster or mat, continue adding rounds by placing (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in every corner space and 3 dc into each chain-1 side space, with chain 1 between groups.

Make it yours

Try one shade for the center and a contrasting shade on the second round. Handmade coasters make lovely small gifts.