How to Crochet a Perfect Square: Step-by-Step Guide

Crocheting is a relaxing hobby that can provide a great sense of accomplishment as you create something beautiful and unique. However, as a beginner, it can be challenging to achieve the desired result. One of the most commonly used shapes in crocheting is a square shape – it is perfect for making blankets, afghans, coasters, and more. In this article, we will guide you on how to make a square crochet using simple and easy-to-understand instructions in relaxed English language.

The key to making a perfect square crochet is in the tension of the yarn. Too tight and the shape will be too small, too loose, and it will be too big. The yarn and hook size used will also affect the final shape of your square crochet. It is essential to keep these factors in mind and invest in quality yarn and hooks to avoid compromising the finished item. Without further ado, let’s dive into the steps on how to make a square crochet.

1. Gather Your Materials

Before you start making a square crochet, you need to prepare all the materials you will need for the project. You will need some yarn in the color of your choice and the appropriate size crochet hook that matches the thickness of your yarn. It is also helpful to have a pair of scissors and a tapestry needle.

2. Make a Slip Knot

The first step in making a square crochet is to make a slip knot, which serves as the starter loop. To do this, fold the end of your yarn over itself and make a loop. Insert your crochet hook into the loop, and tighten the knot by pulling the yarn’s tail.

3. Chain Stitch

Once you have created the slip knot, you can start to crochet the foundation chain stitch. Wrap the yarn over the hook, and pull the yarn’s loop through the slip knot to create a new loop. Repeat this step until you have the desired number of chains you need.

4. Single Crochet

The next step in creating your square crochet is to work on the first row, which is a single crochet stitch. Insert your hook into the second chain from the hook and wrap the yarn over the hook. Then pull through the chain stitch so that you have two loops on your hook. Now, wrap the yarn over the hook again and pull through both loops.

5. Double Crochet

After you complete the first row with a single crochet stitch, the next step is to create the second row using double crochet. Wrap your yarn around the hook and insert it into the first stitch on the previous row. Wrap the yarn around the hook again and pull through the stitch. Now you have three loops on the hook. Wrap the yarn around the hook again and pull through the first two loops on the hook. Wrap the yarn over the hook and pull through the last two loops.

6. Half Double Crochet

You can also create your square crochet with a half-double crochet stitch. Insert your hook into the first stitch of the previous row and wrap the yarn over the hook. Pull the yarn through the stitch so that you have three loops. Wrap the yarn over the hook again and pull through all three loops on the hook.

7. Double Crochet Two Together

If you want to decrease stitches in your square crochet, try using the double crochet two together stitch. To do this, insert the hook into the first stitch, wrap the yarn over the hook, and pull through the stitch. Do not complete the stitch completely, and instead, insert your hook into the next stitch and complete a half-double crochet. Finally, wrap the yarn over the hook and pull through all three loops on the hook to finish the stitch.

8. Joining Yarn

If you run out of yarn in your project, you can join a new strand of yarn. To do this, start by knotting the new strand of yarn onto the old one. Then, continue crochet with the new strand of yarn until you blend in the knot with the rest of your work.

9. Creating a Border

Once you have completed the desired number of rows, you can finish your square crochet by creating a border. To create a border, simply work single crochet stitches around the edges of your piece. This will give your work a neater and more polished look.

10. Finishing

When you are happy with the size and appearance of your square crochet, it is time to finish your work. Cut the yarn leaving a tail of at least a few inches. Thread your tapestry needle and weave the tail through the final stitch to secure your work. Then, use the needle to weave in the ends and cut off any excess yarn, and your square crochet is complete!

Crocheting a Square: Tips and Techniques

Crocheting a square may seem like a difficult task, but with some helpful tips and techniques, anyone can create a beautiful and symmetrical square. Here are some important things to keep in mind when making a square:

1. Choosing the Right Yarn and Hook Size

The first step in crocheting a square is choosing the right yarn and hook size. For a tight, dense square, use a smaller hook size and a thicker yarn. For a looser, more open square, use a larger hook size and a thinner yarn. Experiment with different yarns and hook sizes to create different textures and sizes of squares.

2. Making the Starting Chain

To start crocheting a square, you need to create a starting chain. The length of the starting chain will depend on the size of the square you want to create. Make sure to create an even number of chains so that your square will be symmetrical.

3. Working in Rows vs. Rounds

There are two ways to crocheting a square: working in rows or working in rounds. Working in rows is easier for beginners, while working in rounds can create a more seamless and polished look. Choose the method that works best for you and the pattern you are following.

4. Using Stitch Markers

Using stitch markers can help you keep track of where your stitches begin and end, making it easier to create symmetrical squares. Place a stitch marker at the beginning of each row or round, and move it up as you work.

5. Joining Rows and Rounds

To create a square, you will need to join your rows or rounds together. There are several ways to do this, including slip stitching, single crocheting, or whip stitching. Choose the method that looks best with your pattern.

6. Creating Corners

To create corners in your square, you will need to increase or decrease the number of stitches. This is where keeping track of your stitch count is important. Follow the pattern instructions carefully to create perfectly shaped corners.

7. Blocking Your Square

Blocking your square is an important step in creating a polished, professional-looking finished product. To block your square, soak it in water, reshape it to the desired size and shape, and let it dry completely before using or sewing it into a larger project.

8. Adding Texture

There are many ways to add texture to your square, including working in different stitch patterns, using different types of yarn, or adding embellishments like buttons or beads. Experiment with different techniques to create a unique and beautiful square.

9. Using Color

Using different colors can also add interest and texture to your square. Choose colors that complement each other, or use variegated yarn to create a gradient effect. Color changes can also be used to create stripes or other patterns in your square.

10. Practice Makes Perfect

Finally, the key to crocheting a perfect square is practice. Don’t be discouraged if your first few squares don’t turn out the way you want them to. Keep practicing, and soon you’ll be able to crochet beautiful and symmetrical squares with ease.

Materials Needed to Make a Square Crochet

Crochet is a beautiful craft and a great way to unwind after a long day. To make a square crochet, you will need the following materials:

Basic Stitches in Square Crochet

Before we get started on making a square crochet project, it is important to familiarize yourself with the basic crochet stitches that you will need. The following stitches will be used in a square crochet project:

Chain Stitch

The chain stitch is the foundation of most crochet projects, including square crochet. To make a chain stitch, make a loop with the yarn and insert your crochet hook into the loop. Wrap the yarn around the crochet hook and pull it through the loop. This is the first chain stitch. Repeat this process until you have the desired number of chains for your project.

Single Crochet Stitch

Once you have completed the chain stitches, you will need to work single crochet stitches into the foundation chain. To make a single crochet stitch, insert your crochet hook into the second chain from the hook. Wrap the yarn around the crochet hook and pull it through the chain. Wrap the yarn around the hook one more time and pull it through both loops on the hook.

Double Crochet Stitch

The double crochet stitch is another important stitch in square crochet. To make a double crochet stitch, wrap the yarn around the hook, insert the hook into the next stitch, wrap the yarn around the hook again, and pull it through the stitch. Wrap the yarn around the hook, and pull it through two loops on the hook. Wrap the yarn around the hook again and pull it through the remaining two loops.

Half Double Crochet Stitch

The half double crochet stitch is also used in square crochet projects. To make a half double crochet stitch, wrap the yarn around the hook, insert the hook into the next stitch, wrap the yarn around the hook again, and pull it through the stitch. Wrap the yarn around the hook again and pull it through all three loops on the hook.

Treble Crochet Stitch

Lastly, the treble crochet stitch is a taller stitch than the previous ones. To make a good treble crochet stitch, begin by wrapping the yarn over the hook two times before inserting the hook into the next stitch. This is called yarn over twice (yo). Insert the hook into the stitch, yarn over and pull up a loop. You will have four loops on the hook at this point. Yarn over and pull through two loops on the hook. Yarn over again and pull through two more loops leaving 2 loops on the hook. Yarn over once again and pull through 2 more loops leaving one loop on the hook and completing the stitch.

Making Your First Square Crochet

Once you are familiar with the basic crochet stitches used in square crochet, it’s time to make your first square. Follow these instructions:

Step 1: Chain stitches

Begin by making a foundation chain with your yarn. You can use as many or as few chains as you like depending on the size of your square crochet.

Step 2: Single crochet stitches

Single crochet into the second chain from the hook and each chain after that. Counting the chain on the needle and the single crochet, you will end up with one less stitch than you did chains.

Step 3: Changing colors

When changing colors in square crochet, you should change colors at the end of a row. Once you reach the end of the row, yarn over with the new color, and begin the next row.

Step 4: Weaving in ends

Once you have finished your square crochet, it’s time to weave in the loose ends. Thread a tapestry needle with the end of the yarn and weave it into the stitches of the square, being careful not to disturb the stitch pattern as you go.

Step 5: Final thoughts

Making a square crochet project is a fun and rewarding experience. Once you have the basic stitches down, you can experiment with different patterns and color combinations to create unique and beautiful projects. Enjoy the process and happy crocheting!

Happy Crocheting!

I hope this article has helped you to create your very own square crochets! Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t give up if your first attempts don’t turn out perfectly. Keep trying and experimenting with different yarns and crochet hooks until you find your optimal setup. Thanks for reading, and be sure to check back later for more fun and creative crochet tips and tutorials! Happy crocheting, everyone!