Lori Holt's Granny Square Book: 13 Projects That'll Make You Grab a Hook
Sarah Miller ·
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Lori Holt's first crochet book, Granny Square Along, offers 13 cozy projects from pincushions to afghans. See the full list, needed skills, and Lori's favorite supplies.
## Lori Holt's Granny Square Along Crochet Book: 13 Projects That'll Make You Grab a Hook
If you've ever wanted to turn a simple granny square into something you'll actually use every day, Lori Holt's first-ever crochet book is here to show you how. *Granny Square Along* packs 13 projects that range from tiny pincushions to a full afghan, and every single one starts with the same humble square.
Lori learned to crochet from her grandmother, and the very first thing she made was a granny square. That was decades ago, and she's been hooked ever since. This book is her way of passing that joy along.
### What's Inside the Book?
You'll find 13 patterns, each with clear instructions and partial diagrams for those who prefer visuals over words. Here's the full lineup:
- Granny Square Pincushion (page 14)
- Granny Square Bunting (page 18)
- Granny Square Scarf (page 24)
- Granny Square Small Pillow (page 28)
- Envelope Granny Pillow (page 32)
- Patchwork Granny Pillow (page 38)
- Granny Canning Jar Cozies (page 42)
- Granny Square Afghan (page 48)
- Granny Square Stockings (page 56)
- Granny Square Bow (page 66)
- Granny Square Sewing Book (page 74)
- Granny Square Sewing Book – Open (page 74)
- Granny Square Project Bag (page 80)
- Granny Square Potholder (page 86)
Which one will you make first? I'm eyeing the stockings myself.
### Is This Book for Beginners?
Not quite. You'll need to know the basics of crochet before diving in. The patterns are simple and the instructions are easy to follow, but Lori assumes you already know how to hold a hook and make a stitch.
If you're brand new, don't worry. Lori has a free video tutorial that walks you through making your very first granny square. You can pause, rewind, and watch it as many times as you need. She also has a Crochet Series playlist on YouTube for extra practice.
### Skills You'll Need
Before you start, make sure you're comfortable with these stitches:
- Chain (ch)
- Single crochet (sc)
- Double crochet (dc)
- Half double crochet (hdc)
- Triple crochet (tc)
- Slip stitch (sl st)
The book also uses common abbreviations like sp (space) and st (stitch).
### Supplies to Gather
One of the best things about crochet is how portable it is. You only need a few tools to get started. Here are Lori's essentials:
- Chunky Crochet Thread Yarn (#2 weight) – the Cozy Crochet Series Sets give you a scrappy look without the guesswork.
- 100% Cute Comfort Grip Crochet Hook Set – most patterns use a 3.5mm (E/4 US) hook. For two-strand stitching, you'll need a 4.5mm (7 US) hook.
- 100% Cute Yarn Needles
- Coral Lori Holt 5-inch Scissors
- Project-specific supplies like a Covered Button Kit, felted wool, scrap fabric, Poly-Fil, and throw pillows in various sizes.
### Optional Notions That Make Life Easier
These aren't required, but they sure are nice to have:
- Lori Holt's Yarn Winder
- 100% Cute Point Protectors
- 100% Cute Stitch Markers
- Vintage Style Stitchy Reader Glasses
- Beehive Weighted Yarn Bowl
- Lori's Stitching Light
- Measuring Tape
- Foam Blocking Board
- Rustproof Blocking Pretty Pins
> "The granny square is timeless because it's simple, but you can do so much with it." — Lori Holt
### Ready to Start?
Whether you're making a gift or treating yourself, these projects are designed to be enjoyable from the first stitch to the last. Grab your hook, pick a pattern, and let's get crocheting.
Which project caught your eye? Let us know in the comments!