Must Have Tools for Crocheting Granny Squares: Hooks, Needles, and Accessories
Choosing the right tools is crucial for crocheting beautiful granny squares, regardless of your skill level. By selecting the appropriate hooks, needles, and accessories, you can ensure that your project turns out just the way you want it.
In this post, we’ll explore the different types of tools for crocheting granny squares and offer tips for selecting the best ones for your projects.
Supplies & Tools for Crocheting Granny Squares
You will need a few tools on hand to be able to crochet a granny square apart from yarn. When you use the correct tools, it makes crocheting a square easy and enjoyable. Below, we’ll focus on some of the best tools you’ll want to have to be able to make a stunning granny square.
Crochet Hooks
A crochet hook is a must-have tool for making granny squares. They are used to create the stitches that form the squares, and the type of hook you use can affect the size, tension, and overall appearance of your squares. There are different types of crochet hooks available, including traditional hooks and ergonomic hooks.
Traditional hooks have a tapered shaft and a hook on one end. They are typically made of aluminum, steel, or plastic and come in a variety of sizes. Traditional hooks are suitable for most crocheting projects and are widely available in craft stores and online.
Ergonomic hooks, on the other hand, have a more ergonomic design that reduces hand fatigue and strain. They have a thicker handle or grip that makes them more comfortable to hold for extended periods. Ergonomic hooks are available in various materials, such as rubber, bamboo, and plastic, and are becoming increasingly popular among crocheters. These are my favorite crochet hooks to use when making granny squares.
When selecting a crochet hook, consider the type of yarn you’re using and the tension you want to achieve. Generally, thicker yarn requires a larger hook, while thinner yarn requires a smaller hook, but check the yarn label to be sure. Most crochet hook sets will include a range of sizes, allowing you to experiment and find the perfect hook size for your project.
You may also use Tunisian crochet hooks to make Tunisian squares as well.
Tapestry Needles
Tapestry needles are an essential tool for finishing your granny square projects. These blunt-tipped needles are used for weaving in the loose ends of yarn and sewing the squares together to create a larger project. Without a tapestry needle, your granny square project may appear unfinished or may unravel over time.
You’ll find that tapestry needles come in different sizes and types. Most tapestry needles are made of metal or plastic, but there are also tapestry needles made of bamboo, which can be more gentle on your yarn. Some tapestry needles have a bent tip or a curved shape (my favorite), which can be useful for working on tight stitches or hard-to-reach areas.
When selecting a tapestry needle, consider the thickness of your yarn and the size of the eye (the open space at the top of the needle). The eye should be large enough to accommodate the yarn, but not so large that it slips out while you’re weaving in the ends. You may also want to consider the type of material the needle is made of, as some materials may be more gentle on your yarn than others.
To use a tapestry needle, thread the loose end of your yarn through the eye of the needle and weave it in and out of the stitches on the back side of your granny square. Once the end is woven in, trim the excess yarn. To sew your granny squares together, use a tapestry needle and yarn to join the squares by joining them together at the edges.
Stitch Markers
Stitch markers are useful tools for keeping track of your stitches and ensuring that your granny square project turns out the way you want it. These markers are small, usually plastic or metal rings, that can be placed on your crochet hook or in your work to mark a specific stitch or row.
Stitch markers come in different types and sizes, such as locking stitch markers, split-ring stitch markers, and coil-less safety pins. Locking stitch markers are especially useful as they can be opened and closed, allowing you to move them around your work without having to remove them. Split-ring stitch markers and coil-less safety pins are great for marking specific stitches or sections of your work.
When using stitch markers, it’s important to place them correctly. They should be placed on the loop of the stitch, not on the post or the hook. If you’re working in the round, place a stitch marker at the beginning of your round to mark the start. You can also use stitch markers to indicate increases or decreases, or to mark sections of your pattern that require special attention.
Stitch markers are especially useful for complex granny square patterns, as they can help you keep track of your progress and prevent mistakes. By using stitch markers, you can ensure that your granny square project turns out exactly as you want it.
Blocking Mats & Pins
Blocking mats and pins are essential tools for giving your granny squares a polished, finished look. So, what is blocking exactly? Blocking is the process of stretching and shaping your crocheted pieces to their proper dimensions and allowing them to dry in that shape. This can help to even out stitches, straighten edges, and create a more professional finish.
Blocking Mats
Blocking mats are foam mats that can be used to stretch your granny squares to the desired size and shape. They come in different sizes and thicknesses, so you can choose the one that suits your project. Some blocking mats have a grid printed on them, which can help you to accurately measure and place your granny squares.
Blocking Pins
Blocking pins are used to hold your granny squares in place on the blocking mat. These pins are usually rust-proof and come in different lengths and thicknesses. They can be used to pin your granny squares to the blocking mat, stretching them to the correct size and shape. Blocking pins can also be used to pin together multiple granny squares, creating a larger project.
When blocking your granny squares, it’s important to follow the instructions for your specific pattern. Some granny squares may need to be soaked in water or a special solution before blocking, while others may simply need to be pinned and left to dry. It’s also important to be patient during the blocking process, as it can take several hours or even a day for your granny squares to dry completely, but just keep in mind that the wait is worth it for a finished beautiful square.
Scissors
Scissors are an often-overlooked but essential tool for crocheting granny squares. While any pair of scissors can technically be used, having a good quality pair can make all the difference in your project.
Sharp scissors are crucial for cutting your yarn cleanly, preventing fraying and splitting. Choose scissors with comfortable handles, as crocheting can be a repetitive motion that can cause hand strain over time. Many crocheters prefer scissors with ergonomic handles or padded grips to reduce hand fatigue.
Another factor to consider when choosing scissors for crocheting is the blade length. Long blades can make it easier to cut multiple strands of yarn at once, while short blades are better for more precise cuts. My favorites are stork scissors, which I will show you below.
When using your scissors, you should only use them for cutting yarn and not for anything else. I call these yarn scissors, and they are ONLY used for yarn at all times. This can help to prevent dulling or damage to the blades. It’s also important to keep your scissors clean and sharp, as dull scissors can cause jagged cuts and make it more difficult to work with your yarn.
Granny Squares Patterns
Now that you know all about the tools to have, you are ready to now start crocheting squares. If you’d like a few different types of options, take a look at our post about the best beginner crochet books to have, too!