A soft teddy bear with a weighted base and embroidered nose makes a comforting companion for a child or a charming accent on a bedroom shelf. This project uses basic amigurumi techniques like the magic ring and invisible decreases, allowing beginners to build confidence while creating something tangible and warm. You will follow a simple construction process that works up quickly, helping you understand how individual limb placement changes the personality of your bear. Whether you want to use up small amounts of leftover yarn or craft a thoughtful handmade gift, this accessible guide provides the clarity you need to finish your creation in an afternoon.

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Why You’ll Love This Pattern

The Classic Crochet Granny Square is the fundamental building block for countless textile projects. You will appreciate how quickly this pattern works up, making it ideal for utilizing leftover yarn ends from larger projects. Its repetitive nature creates a meditative rhythm that is easy to pick up and set down, perfect for crocheting during commutes or while watching a show. Because each square is independent, you can easily scale the size of a final blanket or bag by simply adding more squares at your own pace.

I finally mastered the granny square with this tutorial. The instructions for the corners made my edges perfectly straight for the first time.

— Sarah, beginner crocheter

Pattern Overview & Skill Level

Skill Level: Beginner
Approximate Time: 30 to 45 minutes per square
Construction: Worked in joined rounds, starting from the center and expanding outward
Finished Dimensions: Approximately 5 inches by 5 inches using medium weight yarn

Materials & Supplies Needed

Yarn: Worsted weight #4, acrylic or wool blend, approximately 20 yards per square.
Hook Size: 5.0 mm (H-8)
Notions: Tapestry needle for weaving in ends, sharp scissors.
Yarn Substitutions: You may use DK weight yarn for a smaller, more delicate square, though you will need to go down to a 4.0 mm hook to maintain fabric density. Using bulky weight yarn will result in a much larger, thicker square and will require more yardage.

Stitch Guide & Abbreviations (US Terms)

ch = chain
sl st = slip stitch
dc = double crochet
st/sts = stitch/stitches
sp = space
Magic Ring: An adjustable loop used to start the center of the square
Cluster: A group of 3 dc worked into the same chain-space

Step-by-Step Pattern Instructions

Granny Square Body

Rnd 1: Start with a magic ring. Ch 3 (counts as first dc throughout), work 2 dc into the ring, ch 2, *3 dc into ring, ch 2; repeat from * two more times. Join with a sl st to the top of the beginning ch 3. (12 dc, 4 ch-2 sps)
Rnd 2: Sl st into the next dc and into the first ch-2 sp. Ch 3, (2 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in same ch-2 sp. *Ch 1, skip 3 sts, (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in next ch-2 sp; repeat from * two more times. Ch 1, join with a sl st to the top of the beginning ch 3. (24 dc, 4 ch-2 sps, 4 ch-1 sps)
Rnd 3: Sl st into next 2 dc and into the corner ch-2 sp. Ch 3, (2 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in same ch-2 sp. *Ch 1, 3 dc in next ch-1 sp, ch 1, (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in next corner ch-2 sp; repeat from * two more times. Ch 1, 3 dc in last ch-1 sp, ch 1, join with a sl st to top of beginning ch 3. (36 dc, 4 ch-2 sps, 8 ch-1 sps)
Rnd 4: Sl st into next 2 dc and into the corner ch-2 sp. Ch 3, (2 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in same ch-2 sp. *Ch 1, (3 dc in next ch-1 sp, ch 1) across the side to the next corner, (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in corner ch-2 sp; repeat from * two more times. Ch 1, 3 dc in last ch-1 sp, ch 1, join with a sl st. (48 dc, 4 ch-2 sps, 12 ch-1 sps)

Finishing

Fasten off your yarn leaving a 6-inch tail. Pull the tail through the final loop to secure. Use a tapestry needle to weave the tail through the back loops of the stitches on the reverse side of the square to hide the end securely.

Care & Washing Instructions

Hand wash your finished item in cool water with a mild wool-safe detergent.
Gently squeeze out excess moisture by rolling the item in a clean towel, then lay flat on a drying rack away from direct sunlight.
Shape the square by pinning it to a blocking board while damp to ensure perfectly crisp corners and straight sides.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

Maintaining consistent tension is the most common challenge for beginners; if your square starts to cup or ripple, try using a slightly larger hook or consciously loosening your yarn tension on the double crochet stitches. Always place a stitch marker in the top of your beginning chain three to make it easy to find where to join your round at the end. When weaving in ends, work the yarn tail in two different directions through the stitch bases to prevent the yarn from sliding out after repeated washing. To adjust the size, simply continue repeating the Round 4 logic, adding one extra group of 3 dc and a chain-1 space for every additional row you work.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different colors for each round?

Yes, changing colors every round is a popular way to use up small amounts of scrap yarn. Simply fasten off at the end of each round and join your new color in any corner space to begin the next round.

How do I join these squares together?

There are several methods, such as the mattress stitch for an invisible seam or a single crochet join for a decorative, raised ridge effect. Choose the method that best matches the style of your finished project.

Is this pattern suitable for making a garment?

While this square is usually for blankets or bags, you can create garments by joining them into panels. Keep in mind that garments require specific sizing, so you will need to measure your squares and calculate the total number needed to reach your desired dimensions.

Can I sell items made from this pattern?

You are welcome to sell physical items made from this pattern as long as you provide credit to the designer. Do not sell or redistribute the written instructions themselves, as the pattern remains the intellectual property of the designer.

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Your finished bear brings a touch of handmade comfort to any nursery or gift bag. Try using a textured chenille yarn for a plush, velvet-like feel or switch to a fine cotton thread to create a miniature version that fits in the palm of your hand. Sharing your project on social media helps other makers find inspiration for their own yarn stashes. Feel free to browse our main collection of free patterns for your next crochet project, where you can find more animals and home accessories to practice your new skills.