how to crochet a sunburst granny square free crochet tutorial

Main project photo — *The finished project — looks amazing, right?*

2. Introduction

Welcome to your free crochet tutorial for the delightful sunburst granny square! This charming project yields a square measuring approximately 6-8 inches, making it a perfect size for cozying up with a variety of applications, from blankets and pillows to bags and coasters. The sunburst design radiates warmth and vibrancy, making it a lovely addition to any crochet collection.

For this project, you’ll want to choose a medium-weight yarn—specifically acrylic or cotton for durability—and select 2-3 complementary adult-friendly colors. Consider a palette of warm golden yellows, rich earthy browns, and soft cream hues to create a beautiful sunburst effect. This project is both fun and quick to make, with a skill level that’s perfect for beginners looking to enhance their crochet skills. Moreover, these granny squares make wonderful handmade gifts or seasonal decorations, perfect for brightening up homes during any occasion.

Materials and preparation — *Materials and work-in-progress shot*

3. Materials Needed

– Yarn: Medium-weight (4) yarn in golden yellow, earthy brown, and cream – approximately 150 yards total

– Hook: 4.0mm crochet hook

– Eyes: Not applicable for this project

– Stuffing: Not applicable for this project

– Needle: Tapestry needle for weaving in ends

– Marker: Stitch marker

– Optional extras: None

4. Designer Notes / Tips

When working on your sunburst granny square, one technique to keep in mind is the use of chain spaces to create that lovely textured look that granny squares are known for. Be sure to work in a relaxed tension; this will help maintain the square shape and ensure your stitches are even.

While you won’t be stuffing this square, it’s still important to keep your stitches firm enough to hold their shape. If you choose to substitute yarns, ensure that they are a similar weight to maintain the integrity of the square.

For gauge, aim for about 5 stitches per inch in double crochet. This will help ensure that your squares are consistent in size, especially if you’re making multiple squares for a larger project.

If you’re making this square for a child-friendly item, consider using softer yarns without any embellishments or rough textures that could irritate sensitive skin.

5. Pattern Instructions

Sunburst Granny Square

Round 1:

– With golden yellow, create a magic ring.

– Round 1: 12 dc in magic ring, pull tight (12)

Round 2:

– Change to cream yarn.

– Round 2: [ch 2, (dc, ch 2, dc) in the same stitch] around, join with slip stitch to first ch-2 (12 clusters)

Round 3:

– Change back to golden yellow.

– Round 3: Sl st to the ch-2 space, [ch 3, (dc, ch 2, dc) in the same space] around, join with slip stitch to first ch-3 (12 clusters)

Round 4:

– Change to earthy brown.

– Round 4: Sl st to the ch-2 space, [(ch 3, dc in next ch-2 space, ch 2, dc in next ch-2 space)] around, join (12 small clusters)

Round 5:

– Change back to cream.

– Round 5: Sl st to the ch-2 space, ch 3, (dc, ch 2, dc) in the same space, [skip next cluster, (dc, ch 2, dc) in the next ch-2 space] around, join to the first ch-3 (12 larger clusters)

Finishing:

– Fasten off and weave in your ends using a tapestry needle.

– Block your square if necessary to achieve a perfect shape.

6. Closing & Social Engagement

I hope you enjoyed creating your sunburst granny square! I’d love to see your version! Leave a comment below sharing your color combinations or any challenges you faced. What color combination will you try? Feel free to share your finished squares on social media using the hashtag #SunburstGrannySquare. Happy crocheting!