This incredibly versatile pattern is such a great way to get rid of the odd yarn scraps you might have. You'll learn how to crochet simple squares and join them at the sides and the corners to create a speedy blanket from join-as-you-go technique. All you need is the yarn and hook of your choice!

I used:

US P hook
Bulky yarn

Step 1: Crochet Your First Square

To start, begin a basic granny square as follows: Chain 4, join to the first chain to make a round, chain 3, work 2 double crochets in the ring, *chain 3, work 3 double crochets in the ring, repeat from the * twice, end with a chain 3 and join with a slip stitch in the top of the first chain 3. Slip stitch into the next double crochet, chain 1 and single crochet in the same stitch, *chain 3, single crochet into the next chain-3 space, chain 3, single crochet into the same space for corner, repeat from * around, ending with a slip stitch in the first single crochet. Fasten off.

Step 2: Crochet the Remaining Squares and Join

Now you'll crochet your remaining squares. These will all be joined together, whether one side or two sides, depending where in the blanket you are. I find it easier to plan out my blanket (8x8, 8x10, etc.) and start there.

Join round (round 2 of the first standalone square you just made): Slip stitch into the next double crochet, chain 1 and single crochet in the same stitch, chain 3, single crochet into the next chain-3 space, chain 1, insert hook into corresponding chain-3 corner on another square. Yarn over and draw through like you would for a normal slip stitch, chain one, single crochet in same chain-3 space of current square. This finishes your join! Continue in this manner across the edge of the squares, joining corresponding side chain-3 spaces together.

Step 3: Joining an Inner Corner

When joining an inner corner, chain 1, insert hook into first chain-3 corner of corresponding square, yarn over and draw through. Insert hook into chain-3 corner of the white square, yarn over, and draw through. Chain 1 and single crochet in chain-3 corner of current square.

Step 4: Finishing

Continue joining squares to the blanket in this manner. When you're finished, weave in all the ends. If you want, you can even add a simple border to your blanket by crocheting along the edges! Happy crocheting!