The Granny Square Book: Timeless Techniques and Fresh Ideas for Crocheting Square by Square (7 page)

	= puff st
	= beg cluster
	= cluster
	= beg popcorn
	= popcorn
	= block st
	= picot

A WORD ABOUT GAUGE

Every pattern will tell you the exact yarn (or weight of yarn) to use, and suggest what size hook to use to crochet an item with the same finished measurements as the project shown. It is important to choose yarn in the weight specified in order to successfully complete the project. The hook size recommended is the size an average crocheter would use to get the correct gauge. Gauge refers to the number of stitches and the number of rows in a given width and length, usually in 4" (10 cm), of crocheted fabric. For this book, gauge also refers to the finished size of a granny square.

Before beginning to crochet a project, it is very important to take the time to check your gauge. Crochet a sample swatch of the stitch pattern or crochet one of the granny squares used in the project. If you have more stitches to the inch or if your square is smaller than the instructions call for, you are working tighter than average; try a new swatch or square with a larger hook. If you have fewer stitches to the inch or if your square is larger than the instructions call for, you are working looser than average; try a smaller hook.

NOTE:
Always change hook size to get proper gauge, rather than trying to work tighter or looser.

GRANNY SQUARE TECHNIQUES

Crocheting a project square by square has a lot of perks. Because you are working on small pieces at a time, you can take your project with you and work inconspicuously if necessary. Completion of every square gives you a tiny rush of satisfaction, and watching the squares stack up gives you a strong feeling of accomplishment. The final step of joining the squares is very relaxing and rewarding.

GETTING STARTED

Most granny squares are worked in rounds, beginning with a center ring. There are different ways to begin the ring. The method you choose may depend on whether you want the center to be open or tightly closed.

CHAIN RING

The most usual method of beginning working in rounds is by making a foundation chain, joining with a slip stitch to form a ring (1), then work the next round inserting the hook into the center of the ring rather than in the chain stitches (2). In this method the size of the ring is fixed and cannot be tightened.

SLIP KNOT

1.
Form a loose slip knot. Holding the tail between your thumb and middle finger, work the first round of stitches into the slip knot.

2.
Before joining the round, gently pull the tail of the knot to tighten the center.

ADJUSTABLE LOOP

A third method, sometimes referred to as magic ring or sliding loop also allows you to pull the ring tightly closed.