How to Crochet a Willow Granny Square: Free Pattern Guide

The Willow Granny Square features a soft floral center that transitions into a clean geometric edge, creating a balanced look that works beautifully for blankets or delicate tote bags. This project provides a satisfying rhythm for makers of all skill levels, especially those who enjoy seeing small motifs transform into larger textile pieces. You will work through rounds of cluster stitches and double crochets to achieve that signature rounded bloom effect inside the square frame. It is a productive way to use up small scraps of yarn from your stash while practicing tension control and basic motif assembly techniques for your future designs.

Pin for later!

Why You’ll Love This Pattern

This classic crochet beanie works up quickly using a simple repetitive stitch pattern that creates a squishy, warm fabric. It is an ideal project for using up partial skeins of yarn, as the design remains elegant even with color changes. Because the construction involves working a flat rectangle that is seamed into a tube, you can easily adjust the circumference and length to fit any head size. The ribbed texture provides excellent stretch, ensuring the hat stays snug during cold weather walks.

I finished this hat in just one evening while watching a movie. The instructions were very clear and the result looks just as professional as the store-bought versions.

— Sarah, hobbyist crocheter

Pattern Overview & Skill Level

• Skill Level: Beginner
• Approximate Time: 3 to 4 hours
• Construction: Flat panel worked in rows, seamed to form a tube with a gathered top
• Finished Dimensions & Sizing: 18 inches circumference (unstretched) by 9 inches height, fits average adult head sizes

Materials & Supplies Needed

• Yarn: Worsted weight #4, wool or acrylic blend, approximately 200 yards.
• Hook Size: 5.0 mm (H-8) crochet hook.
• Notions: Yarn needle for seaming, scissors, and a measuring tape.
• Safe yarn substitutions: Any standard #4 worsted weight yarn will work. Cotton blends will result in a heavier, less stretchy hat, while acrylics offer more elasticity and warmth. If you switch to a lighter DK weight yarn, use a 4.0 mm hook and add extra foundation chains to maintain size.

Stitch Guide & Abbreviations (US Terms)

• ch = chain
• sc = single crochet
• sl st = slip stitch
• BLO = back loop only (insert hook under the back loop of the stitch instead of both loops to create ridges)
• st/sts = stitch/stitches

Step-by-Step Pattern Instructions

Beanie Panel

The hat is worked in rows to create a ribbed effect when worn vertically.

1. Row 1: Ch 46. Sc in the second ch from hook and in each ch across. (45 sts)
2. Row 2: Ch 1, turn. Sc in the BLO of each st across. (45 sts)
3. Rows 3-60: Repeat Row 2 until the piece measures approximately 18 inches wide when laid flat.

Assembly and Finishing

1. Seaming: Fold the rectangle in half, matching the short ends. Using a yarn needle and a length of matching yarn, whip stitch the two short ends together to create a tube.
2. Gathering the Top: Cut a 12-inch tail of yarn. Using your tapestry needle, weave the yarn in and out along the top edge of the tube. Pull the yarn tail tight to gather the top of the hat closed. Secure with a double knot on the inside.
3. Weaving Ends: Weave in all loose yarn ends securely into the fabric on the wrong side to prevent unraveling.

Care & Washing Instructions

• Hand wash in cool water with a mild wool-safe detergent to maintain the shape of the fibers.
• Lay the hat flat on a clean towel away from direct sunlight to dry completely.
• Reshape the hat while damp if the stitches look uneven, ensuring the ribs align naturally.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Consistent Tension: Keep your slip stitches loose. If your tension is too tight, the hat will be difficult to pull on and may lose its signature stretch.
• Stitch Counting: Count your stitches at the end of every row. It is common for beginners to accidentally skip the final stitch of a row, which will result in a diagonal edge rather than a straight rectangle.
• Invisible Seams: When seaming, insert your needle through the back loop of the edge stitches on both sides to keep the seam flat and hidden within the ribbed texture.
• Adjusting Size: To make the hat larger or smaller, add or subtract foundation chains in the initial row. Each ch equals approximately 0.25 inches in length.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different yarn weight for this pattern?

Yes, you can use DK or bulky weight yarn. If you change the weight, you will need to adjust your starting chain length and the number of rows to match the desired dimensions.

Is this pattern suitable for someone who has never crocheted before?

Absolutely. It uses only the single crochet stitch and works in rows, making it a perfect first project to master tension and edge consistency.

How do I adjust the height of the hat?

The height of the hat is determined by the number of foundation chains you make in Row 1. Simply add more chains if you prefer a slouchier fit, or subtract chains for a tighter fit.

Am I allowed to sell hats made from this pattern?

Yes, you are welcome to sell finished items made from this design. I appreciate credit given to the designer in your product listings.

Pin for later!

These floral-inspired motifs make a charming throw blanket that feels cozy and substantial on the lap. Try swapping the middle round for a high-contrast color to make the petals pop against a neutral background or join them using a whip stitch for a flatter seam. Share a photo of your finished square on social media to show off your color choices and progress. Browse more of our free patterns on the blog to find your next afternoon craft project and keep your yarn basket busy.