Updated 31 October 2026
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If you’ve ever crocheted a granny square, you might be wondering: what to do with granny squares once you’ve made a bunch?
I believe granny squares are one of the most versatile crochet motifs out there.
They’re like little building blocks: easy to make, portable, and perfect for mixing colours and textures. Once you know what to do with granny squares, a whole world of fun, practical projects opens up, from cosy blankets to modern cushion covers you’ll want on display.
In this post, I share 19 ideas, all made with granny squares. If you’ve been asking yourself, what can I make with granny squares?, you’re in the right place. Let’s explore how these simple squares can turn your crochet stash into beautiful, functional pieces you’ll actually use and love.
If you haven’t made a granny square yet, download our free classic granny square pattern here. It’s exactly the square I use for the back of the Nixie Pillow, so your first square can become your first cushion.
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So… what can you make with granny squares?
More than you think. Let’s start with the classics — the kind of projects that feel like home, in the best possible way.
1: The Classic Use — Blankets and Afghans
When people first ask “what can I make with granny squares?” this is the answer they already know.
Blankets. Yep. The classic. But here’s the thing: just because it’s expected doesn’t mean it’s boring.
I believe granny square blankets are the gateway project. The thing that gets us hooked.
You don’t need to plan ahead. You don’t need a huge budget. You just grab some yarn, follow your rhythm, and get lost in the project.
And here’s the beauty each square can be different.
One might be soft and subtle, the next bold and wild.
I’ve made traditional granny square blankets with hundreds of squares and tiny baby blankets made with just a few big ones.
But here’s a little twist — you don’t need to join every square. I’ve used a pile of mismatched ones as reusable gift wrap. One friend turned hers into an art piece and framed it. So while yes, blankets are the obvious answer when you're asking what to do with granny squares, they’re also a blank canvas.
Blankets are also forgiving.
Didn’t get the tension quite right? The squares will hide it.
Changed your mind halfway through the colour scheme? It’ll still look intentional once it’s all joined.
You get freedom without pressure — and I think that’s rare in craft.
So if you’re sitting on a growing pile of squares, wondering if it’s all just going to become one giant blanket — maybe that’s not such a bad thing. Maybe that’s exactly the point.
What you can make:
Full-size blankets and throws
Baby blankets
Lapghans
Picnic rugs
Patchwork-style wall tapestries
📌Tips to start your first granny square blanket:
Choose your method: Decide if you want to join lots of small squares or create one giant granny square. Both work — it depends on your style and patience level.
Pick a joining style early. Some methods (like join-as-you-go) save time later. Others (like whip stitch) give you more control over layout. I always recommend testing a couple on scrap squares first.
Plan your color palette... or don’t. If you love planning, create a palette before you start. If not? Just grab whatever yarn’s calling your name. Random can be beautiful.
Use your stash. Blankets are brilliant stash-busters. Even tiny leftovers can make great accent rounds.
Set mini goals. Like “10 squares a week” or “join a row each Sunday.” It keeps the project moving without the overwhelm.
2: Home Décor with Granny Squares
When people ask what to do with granny squares, my mind always jumps to cushions first.
Crochet pillows are always a win. You can mix colours, use different square designs front and back, or even switch them out seasonally. I believe those little details make a house feel like home.
The Nixie Pillow is the one I keep coming back to. The back is a simple granny square, but the front has this woven chain-link detail running through the corners—it looks far more advanced than it actually is to make. It's also one of those projects that settles into an easy rhythm once you're a few rounds in, so it's as much about the making as the finished cushion.
And if you're a plant lover—crochet matching plant pot covers. One of my favourite home makes?
What you can make:
6. Cushion covers and pillow fronts
7. Wall hangings
8. Table runners and placemats
9. Pot covers and plant cozies
10. Bunting and mobiles
📌 Tips for decorating with granny squares:
Think in pairs. Home pieces look best in sets: two matching cushions, or a cushion with a coordinating plant pot cover. Make one in your main colour and one in an accent shade.
Make the front and back different. A plain granny square on one side and a textured or detailed front on the other gives you two looks in one cushion. Flip it when you want a change. The Nixie Pillow is built exactly this way.
Choose cotton for anything you’ll lean on. Cushions get squashed, washed and sat on. Cotton or a cotton blend holds its shape and won’t pill the way acrylic can.
Line or back it if it gets heavy use. A simple fabric backing or an insert cover inside a crochet cushion helps it keep its shape and last for years.
Mix vintage and modern. A granny square cushion on a sleek sofa, or a single framed square on a plain wall, is a gorgeous contrast. Don’t be afraid to blend old and new.
3: Book Cover
When you start wondering what can I make with granny squares, you don't need to look beyond your own living room. Granny squares aren't just for blankets, and they don't have to turn into a garment project either.
Some of the most satisfying granny square makes are small, useful, everyday objects — the kind you'll actually pick up and use. Take the Daisy Crochet Book Cover. It's built from just four granny squares, joined together into a soft, textured cover for whatever you're currently reading.
What I love about a project like this is how forgiving it is. You're not fitting a pattern to a body or worrying about drape — you're joining a handful of squares into a simple, structured shape, and the granny square texture does all the visual work for you. It also makes an easy gift. A handmade book cover feels personal in a way a bought one never will, and it's finished quickly enough that it doesn't sit in your project pile for months.
What you can make:
11. Book or Kindle cover: four squares joined into a soft, textured cover for whatever you’re reading.
12. Notebook or planner cover: the same idea, sized for a journal. It makes a lovely desk upgrade.
13. Crochet hook case: a row of squares folded into a roll, with a strip of single crochet stitched in to hold each hook.
14. Glasses case: two squares joined on three sides, with a simple loop and button to close it.
📌Tips for small granny square makes:
Keep your squares the same size. For a cover or pouch, even a few millimetres’ difference shows when you join. Check each square against the first one.
Use cotton or a cotton blend. It holds its shape and stands up to being handled every day.
Block before you join. A quick steam or wet block squares everything up and makes joining much neater.
Add a simple edging. A round of single crochet around the finished piece gives it a clean, polished edge.
Make two. Small makes go fast. Keep one, gift one.
4: Fun & Functional Everyday Items
Alright, let’s talk practicality.
Because sometimes, the question “what can I make with granny squares?” isn’t about beauty or boldness — it’s about usefulness. You want projects that actually do something.
And that’s where everyday items come in.
Tote bags?
Absolute no-brainer. I’ve made a few over the years and they never disappoint. Two panels of joined granny squares, a simple lining if you want it, and some sturdy straps — done. They’re eye-catching, roomy, and honestly kind of addictive to make.
Then there’s the phone sleeve. Or tablet case. Or even a laptop pouch if you’re feeling ambitious. You’d think something so small wouldn’t be worth it — but I believe it’s the little things that spark the most joy. I made one in dusty pink and cream, and it’s held up for years.
Bookmarks are another favourite. They’re flat, fast, and totally giftable. Just one square, maybe edged in picot or finished with a tassel. I like using cotton yarn for these — it lies nice and flat in a book. Perfect for adding a personal touch to a present, or even selling as part of a bundle.
And let’s not forget coasters and mug rugs.
These are the go-to answers when someone’s searching what to do with granny squares but doesn’t want a big commitment.
What I love most about these projects is that they’re small enough to finish in one sitting. You get that satisfying done feeling without the overwhelm.
And if one doesn’t turn out?
No big deal.
It’s just one square.
Try again.
Try a new colour.
Try a different yarn.
I believe these little experiments are what keep the spark alive.
And here’s a tip: if you’re gifting these, add a tag with care instructions. A simple touch, but it makes your handmade piece feel polished and thoughtful.
So, if you’ve ever caught yourself thinking “okay, but what can I actually use granny squares for?” — this is your answer:
You can wrap your tech in them.
Carry your lunch in them.
Sip your tea beside them.
What you can make:
15. Tote bags and zipper pouches
16. Phone or tablet sleeves
17. Hot water bottle covers
18. Keychains and bag charms
19. Coasters and mug rugs
📌Tips for making practical everyday pieces:
Start small. Bookmarks, coasters, and pouches are perfect first projects if you’re short on time or yarn.
Line it for strength. Tote bags, sleeves, and zip pouches last longer and feel more finished with a simple fabric lining.
Add a personal touch. Sew on a label, add tassels or buttons, or use your recipient’s favorite colors — these little details make it feel special.
Use cotton yarn. Especially for items that’ll be handled a lot (like coasters or keychains). Cotton holds up better and won’t fuzz.
Bundle and sell. These are great products for Etsy or craft markets. Try selling sets of 4 coasters or gift-ready mug rug + coffee sachet bundles.
My Crochet Essentials
You don't need a huge collection of tools to crochet well. These are the things I reach for most often:
My favourite crochet hooks →
The scissors I always keep in my project bag →
My go-to stitch markers →
A good project bag →
My favourite yarn for home projects →
🧶 Frequently Asked Questions About Granny Squares
What can I make with granny squares besides a blanket?
So much! While blankets are the classic go-to, granny squares can also be turned into cushion covers, bags, book covers, plant pot covers, coasters and wall hangings. They’re incredibly versatile once you start thinking beyond the basics.
What’s the easiest thing to make with granny squares?
A small bag, a cushion cover, or even a headband are great beginner-friendly options. If you can crochet a square, you can join a few together and instantly have something functional.
What’s the easiest granny square project for my home?
A cushion cover. You only need a front and a back, there’s no shaping, and it’s finished in a weekend.
The Nixie Pillow uses a classic granny square for the back and a chain-link front, so it’s a great step up from your first square.
Can I mix different types of granny squares in one project?
Absolutely! Mixing solid, lacy, or textured granny squares can add tons of visual interest. Just make sure they’re the same size before joining.
How do I join granny squares neatly?
You can whipstitch, slip stitch, or use a join-as-you-go method. Each creates a different look — experiment to find your favorite!
Embrace Your Creativity — The World Needs Your Granny Squares
If you’ve ever wondered what to do with granny squares, I hope this journey has shown you just how endless the possibilities really are. Each little square is a building block of creativity, confidence, and joy.
I believe every stitch you make carries your unique story.
So go ahead. Grab your hook, your yarn, and your imagination. Make mistakes, experiment, and surprise yourself.
Because in every square you create, you’re weaving more than craft — you’re weaving freedom, expression, and a little piece of magic.
Your creativity matters. Your craft matters. And the world is waiting to see what you’ll make next.
Happy crocheting!
What Next?
📌 Pin this post: Love granny squares as much as I do? Save this post to your Pinterest boards so you always have a little creative boost ready whenever inspiration strikes.
💬 Let’s chat in the comments: I’d really love to hear from you — do you already keep a granny square project going, or is this your sign to start one? Share your thoughts, questions, or favourite granny square ideas below!
✨Download your free classic granny square pattern.
✨ Turn it into a finished piece with the Nixie Pillow Pattern. Your granny square becomes the back, and the chain-link front does the rest.
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Looking for a modern crochet pillow cover pattern with a little personality? Meet the Nixie Pillow, featuring a classic granny-square back and a distinctive chain-link detail on the front. Discover how thoughtful textures and simple design choices can turn a handmade cushion into a beautiful statement piece for your home.