- Start: Make a Magic Ring (recommended for a tight center).
- Round 1: Ch 2 (does NOT count as a st). Work (3 dc) into the ring. Tr in the ring. Ch 1. Tr in the ring. (3 dc) in the ring. Ch 2. Sl st in the ring. Pull Magic Ring tail tight to close.
- You should see a basic heart shape forming.
- FO Color A, leaving a tail to weave in.
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Part 2: Squaring Up the Heart (Color B)
Now we’ll start creating the square shape around your heart.
- Attach Color B: Attach Color B with a sl st to the ch-2 space at the bottom point of the heart.
- Round 2: Ch 2 (does NOT count as a st). Work (2 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) into the same ch-2 sp (this is your first corner).
- Sc in the top of the next 3 dc. Sc in the top of the next Tr. Sc in the ch-1 space. Sc in the top of the next Tr. Sc in the top of the next 3 dc.
- Work (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) into the ch-2 sp where you joined Color B (this forms your second corner and encloses the bottom point of the heart).
- Join with a sl st to the top of the first dc.
- FO Color B, leaving a tail to weave in.
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Part 3: Completing the Square (Color C)
This round finishes off the square and gives it a classic granny square border.
- Attach Color C: Attach Color C with a sl st to any ch-2 corner space.
- Round 3: Ch 2 (does NOT count as a st). Work (2 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) into the same ch-2 sp (your first corner).
- *Ch 1. Sk 3 sts. Work (3 dc) into the next st. Ch 1. Sk 3 sts. Work (3 dc) into the next st. Ch 1. Sk 3 sts. Work (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) into the next ch-2 sp.*
- Repeat from * 1 more time. Ch 1. Sk 3 sts. Work (3 dc) into the next st. Ch 1. Sk 3 sts. Work (3 dc) into the next st. Ch 1. Join with a sl st to the top of the beginning ch-2.
- FO Color C, leaving a tail to weave in.
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Part 4: Finishing Touches
- Weave in All Ends: This is crucial for a neat and professional finish. Take your time to securely weave in every single yarn tail using your yarn needle. For multi-colored squares, this step is vital to prevent unraveling.
- Blocking (Recommended): For a truly perfect square that lays flat and has crisp edges, blocking is key.
- Gently mist your finished square with water (or wet block if using cotton).
- Pin it out onto a blocking mat, stretching gently to define the corners and ensure it’s a perfect square.
- Allow it to air dry completely.
Tips for a Perfect Heart Granny Square:
- Consistent Tension: This is the most important factor for a beautiful, symmetrical heart and a flat square. Practice helps a lot!
- Stitch Counts: Double-check your stitch counts for each round, especially the beginning of Round 2 where the heart forms and Round 3 where the square is completed.
- Magic Ring vs. Chain Ring: While the chain ring is easier for beginners, the Magic Ring creates a much tighter, neater center for the heart, which is preferable for a “perfect” look. It’s worth learning!
- Weave as You Go: If changing colors frequently, weaving in ends after each color change can save you a tedious task at the end.
- Corner Chains: Always use the for your corners to maintain the square shape.
- Side Chains: Don’t forget the between the 3-dc clusters along the sides, as this creates the classic granny square spacing.
- Color Play:
- Contrasting Heart: Use a bright color for the heart (Color A) and a light or dark neutral for the background (Colors B and C) to make the heart pop.
- Subtle Heart: Use similar shades for the heart and background for a more blended, textural effect.
- Scrap Buster: Get creative with all your leftover yarn bits!
By following these steps and focusing on consistent tension, you’ll be able to crochet beautifully designed and perfectly formed Heart Granny Squares that are sure to add a touch of handmade love to any project. Happy crocheting!
Video tutorial:
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