Granny Square Blanket Planner
Plan your blanket layout, calculate total squares per color, and estimate yarn needed.
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Joining Methods: JAYG vs Traditional
Join-As-You-Go (JAYG) connects each new square to the previous ones while crocheting the last round, eliminating most of the sewing-up phase at the end. It is particularly popular for large blankets where sewing hundreds of squares together is tedious. The result is a flat join that looks neat from both sides.
The traditional flat slip-stitch or single-crochet join is worked after all squares are complete. It creates a visible ridge that can become a decorative design element if worked in a contrasting color. The whip-stitch join produces the flattest seam and is the fastest method for experienced makers.
Blocking Granny Squares
Blocking is essential for granny squares. Freshly crocheted squares are rarely perfectly square — they may have curved edges, uneven corners, or inconsistent sizing. Wet blocking (soaking in water, pressing out excess moisture, then pinning to foam mats to dry) will square up the corners dramatically and give the squares a professional finish.
Block individual squares before joining, or block the entire blanket as a single piece after assembly. Natural fibers (wool, cotton, alpaca) respond best to blocking. Acrylic yarns can be "killed" (permanently relaxed) with steam blocking — be careful not to touch the iron directly to acrylic as it will melt.