Granny Stitch (3-dc cluster)

The granny stitch is the building block of the classic granny square, made from small clusters of three double crochets separated by chain spaces, worked here in straight rows.

US abbreviation: 3-dc clusterUK abbreviation: 3-tr clusterDifficulty: easy

Worked from these basic stitches

  • Double crochetDouble crochet
  • ChainChain

In a chart, the granny stitch is drawn as a group of these symbols.

How to crochet the Granny Stitch

  1. 1Chain a multiple of 3 plus 2.
  2. 2Row 1: work 3 double crochets into the fourth chain from the hook to make the first cluster, skip 2 chains, then work 3 double crochets into the next chain. Repeat across, ending with 1 dc in the last chain.
  3. 3Row 2: chain 3 and turn, then work a cluster of 3 double crochets into each gap between the clusters from the row below.
  4. 4Keep the clusters lined up in columns, working into the spaces rather than into the stitches.
  5. 5End each row with 1 double crochet in the top of the turning chain.
  6. 6Repeat Row 2 for the fabric.

Tips

  • The gaps are the secret: you always work into the spaces between clusters, not into the stitches.
  • Change color at the start of each row for the classic stash-busting granny look.
  • This is the same motion as a granny square worked flat instead of in the round.

Used in

  • Granny square blankets
  • Cardigans
  • Scarves
  • Bags

Related stitches

Find more stitches in the complete crochet stitches library. To visualize this stitch in a chart, try the free stitch chart maker.