Granny squares are addictive little things — you make one, then another, and suddenly you have a pile that needs to become something bigger. The real magic (and sometimes the headache) happens when you join them. There are tons of ways to do it, and picking the right one changes how your blanket, bag, or cardigan looks and feels.
Why the Way You Join Granny Squares Actually Matters
Different joins give different vibes. Some are flat and invisible so the squares flow together seamlessly. Others add texture or a decorative ridge that becomes part of the design. Some are super fast, others take a bit more time but look pro.
The join also affects how sturdy and flexible your project is. A tight join works great for bags and cushions. A more flexible one feels better in blankets and wearables.
Choosing wisely saves you from frustration later — nobody wants a blanket that curls or gaps at the seams.
Quick & Classic Joins That Everyone Should Know
These are the workhorses. Fast, reliable, and beginner-friendly.
Slip Stitch Join — Work through both edges with slip stitches. It’s quick and gives a slightly raised line that can look intentional.
Single Crochet Join — Similar speed but creates a slightly thicker, more defined seam. Great when you want the joins to show a little.
Double Crochet Join — Even taller and more open. Works well with lacy squares or when you want the joins to blend into the overall texture.
Pro Tip for These Joins
Always join with the right sides facing you (or wrong sides, depending on the look you want). Keep your tension even — too tight and the squares pucker, too loose and you get gaps. Blocking your squares before joining makes everything line up way better.
Neat & Invisible Joins for a Seamless Look
Want your squares to look like one big piece of fabric? These methods are your friends.
Whip Stitch / Mattress Stitch — Sewn with a tapestry needle. Super flat and nearly invisible from the front. Perfect for blankets that should look smooth.
Invisible Join (or Flat Join) — A crochet version that hides the seam beautifully. You work into the back loops or use a special technique that keeps everything level.
Zigzag Join — A decorative but still relatively flat method that adds a little interest without being bulky.
These take a tiny bit more patience the first time, but once you get the rhythm they’re addictive. The finished project looks expensive and polished.
Join-As-You-Go (JAYG) Methods — Game Changers
Why finish all your squares first when you can join them while you crochet the last round? These techniques save time and reduce the “I have 87 squares now what” panic.
Continuous Join-As-You-Go — You attach the new square directly to the previous ones as you work the final round. No sewing at the end.
Border Join — Work a border around each new square that connects it to the ones already in place.
Chain & Slip Stitch JAYG — Simple and fast version that still looks neat.
The big win? Your project grows as you go and you only have ends to weave in from the very last square.
Decorative & Textured Joins for Extra Personality
Sometimes you want the joins to be part of the design instead of hiding.
Picot Join — Adds cute little bumps along the seams.
Cluster or Bobble Join — Creates raised texture that pops.
Lace or Openwork Join — Uses chains and taller stitches for an airy, lacy effect between squares.
These are fantastic for shawls, scarves, or statement blankets where you want the joins to shine.
Tips That Make Joining Way Less Painful
Lay out your squares in the final arrangement before you start joining. Take a quick photo so you don’t mess up the order halfway through.
Weave in ends as you go instead of saving them all for the end. Future you will be very grateful.
If your squares are different sizes or tensions, block them first. It’s the single biggest thing that improves join quality.
Don’t be afraid to mix methods on one project — a solid join for the main body and a decorative one for the border can look amazing.
FAQ’s
Which join is fastest?
Slip stitch or single crochet joins are usually the quickest. They’re great when you just want to get the project finished.
Which join looks the most professional?
Invisible or mattress stitch joins give the cleanest, seamless look. Many people use them for blankets that will be on display.
Can I join granny squares without sewing?
Yes! Join-as-you-go methods and continuous joins let you crochet the connections as you make the final round of each square. No extra sewing needed.
What if my squares are slightly different sizes?
Block them first. You can also use a more flexible join like single crochet or add extra chains in the join to ease in any differences.
Which join is best for baby blankets?
Flat, smooth joins like the invisible or whip stitch are safest and most comfortable for little ones. Avoid very raised or lacy joins that could catch fingers.
Do I need to match the yarn color when joining?
Not always. A contrasting color can look intentional and modern. A matching color blends the squares together. Both are valid — it’s your project.
Go Join Those Squares Already
Granny squares are one of the most forgiving and joyful parts of crochet. The joining stage is where they finally become something bigger than the sum of their parts.
Pick a method that matches the vibe you want — fast and casual, sleek and invisible, or fun and decorative. Try a couple on scrap squares first if you’re unsure. Once you find your favorite, you’ll use it again and again.
Grab your hook, line up those squares, and start joining. Your finished project is waiting on the other side of a few satisfying seams.
