Have you ever finished crocheting a bunch of granny squares, only to sigh at the thought of joining them all together? The endless sewing, the countless ends to weave in, the hours spent on a task that feels nothing like the fun of crocheting? Well, I have amazing news for you! The join as you go granny squares technique is about to change your crochet life forever.
This clever method lets you connect your squares while you’re making them. No more separate joining step. No more piles of squares waiting to be attached. Just smooth, continuous crocheting that creates beautiful connections between your squares as you work.
What Makes Join-As-You-Go So Special
The join as you go method feels completely different from other joining techniques. When you use this method, you’re still actively crocheting rather than doing what feels like a finishing technique. Your hook stays in your hand, your yarn keeps flowing, and the project grows together naturally.
What I love most about this technique is how it creates slightly raised, textured joins between squares. These connections add interest to your project rather than just being functional. They become a design feature that makes your work stand out.
Another huge bonus? You’ll have far fewer yarn ends to weave in when you finish! Anyone who’s tackled a big granny square project understands just how much time that can save.
Getting Started with Your First Square
To begin with join as you go granny squares, you’ll crochet your first square almost as usual. The only difference is that you’ll complete just three sides of your final round, leaving the fourth side unfinished.
This first square becomes your anchor. Position it so the unfinished edge is where you want to attach your next square. I like to place it with the join side at the bottom right corner of my project (or bottom left if you’re left-handed).
How to Join Your Second Square
Here’s where the magic happens. Instead of finishing your first square completely, you’ll use that fourth unfinished side to create a seamless connection with your next square.
When you’re ready to add the second square, you’ll:
- Place the new square beside the first one so that their corners meet.
- Slip stitch into the corner of your first square to join.
- Work three double crochets in the corner of your new square
- Slip stitch into the gap between the clusters on the first square.
- Continue alternating between squares – working on the new one, slip stitching to the old one
This forms a lovely, textured connection between the squares that’s both sturdy and deliberately styled. The best part is that it still feels like you’re crocheting a granny square, not doing a separate joining technique.
Working in Rows for Larger Projects
For projects with multiple squares, think of your work in terms of rows. Your very first square will have three normal sides. Middle squares in your first row will have one join side and two normal sides. The last square in a row will have one join side and one normal side, plus the edge that will connect to the next row.
When beginning a new row, you’ll be working in the reverse direction from the one before. This creates a natural flow to your project and makes the joining process more efficient.
Table: Join-As-You-Go Square Types
| Position | Join Sides | Normal Sides | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| First square | 0 | 3 | Leave fourth side unfinished |
| Middle squares | 1 | 2 | Join along one edge |
| End of row square | 1 | 1 | Sets up for next row |
| Start of new row | 1 | 2 | Connects to square below |
Corner Techniques for Clean Joins
Corners deserve special attention in join as you go work. I’ve found that adding a single chain stitch in the corner before continuing with your three double crochets creates a cleaner looking connection. This small detail makes your finished project look more professional.
Remember that with join as you go, you’re only completing half of each corner during the join. You’ll add the other half when you work the next side of your square. This creates a balanced corner that maintains the proper shape of your squares.
The way you handle corners may vary based on your personal preference. There’s room for experimentation here, so try different approaches to see what looks best to you.
Color Considerations for Your Joins
The color you use for joining can dramatically change the look of your project. Using the same color as your squares creates a subtle, unified appearance. Using a contrasting color makes the join pattern stand out as a design feature.
I typically prefer cream or neutral colors for my joins, but don’t be afraid to try something bold. A darker color can create a stained-glass effect that frames each square beautifully.
Perfect Projects for Join-As-You-Go
This technique works wonderfully for blankets of all sizes. The continuous method means you’re building your blanket as you go, seeing it grow with each square you add.
It’s also fantastic for bags, pillows, and even clothing items. Remember, any project that uses multiple granny squares can benefit from this joining method.
Frequently Asked Questions About Knitting and Sewing
How to sew knitting together?
To sew knitting together, use a mattress stitch for invisible seams. Start by laying your pieces side by side. Thread a tapestry needle with matching yarn. Work through the edges of both pieces. Pull gently to close the seam. This method works best for joining sweater pieces or panels.
What can I knit in 30 minutes?
Quick knitting projects are perfect for beginners. You can make a simple headband in 30 minutes. A basic coffee cup cozy is another fast project. Small washcloths are also doable in this timeframe. Choose chunky yarn and large needles for fastest results.
What can I make with knitting?
Knitting offers endless creative possibilities. You can make warm scarves and cozy hats. Sweaters and cardigans are popular choices. Home items like blankets and pillowcases work well. Baby items such as booties and mittens are quick projects. Even toys and decorative items are possible with knitting skills.
What type of clothes can be knitted at home?
Many clothing items work well for home knitting. Simple sweaters are a good starting point. Cardigans and vests are manageable projects. Dresses and skirts can be knitted with practice. Accessories like shawls and ponchos are easier options. Even socks and gloves can be made at home.
How do you sew knit and fabric together?
Combining knit and fabric requires special care. First, stabilize your knitted piece with interfacing. Use a ballpoint needle in your sewing machine. Set your machine to a stretch stitch setting. Pin carefully to prevent stretching. Sew slowly to maintain control. Test on scraps before starting your main project.
Why You Should Try This Technique Today
The join as you go granny squares method transforms what used to be the most tedious part of square projects into an enjoyable, seamless process. You’ll save time, reduce frustration, and create beautiful textured joins that enhance your work.
If you’ve been avoiding multi-square projects because you dread the joining process, this technique might be just what you need to fall in love with granny squares all over again.
Try out this technique on your upcoming project. I’m confident that once you experience how natural and satisfying it feels, you’ll never want to go back to joining squares the old way again!