All new for 2024 are five new designs and a revisit to an existing design where a crocheter wanted some changes. I took on the challenge and have been hooking away for really cool results. Get a preview of the up-and-coming free designs.
I revolutionized crochet by introducing the never-ending granny square. Frustrated with the pitfalls of slip stitching, I ingeniously intertwined multiple strands, creating a mesmerizing spiral. This technique not only captivates visually but also eliminates the need for tedious end-weaving.
In 2012, I officially documented my concept, showcasing three of its four envisioned versions – the graceful single-stranded, dynamic 3-stranded, and intricate 5-stranded granny squares. My crochet journey is a testament to the transformative power of innovation, turning a potential disaster for beginners into a canvas for boundless creativity.
The never-ending granny square symbolizes inspiration within challenges, waiting to bloom into a masterpiece of ingenuity.
See my free e-book below if you want to download a free copy of it.
Original Tutorials
Only available in the right-handed format. The 7-stranded was never filmed. You can tell by the original videos that my skills have greatly improved that including camera, lighting, presentation and technology. So pedestrian, eh!
In 2024, armed with the knowledge gained since my teenage years, I've honed my crochet skills to design more effectively and consistently. Recently, a fellow crocheter reached out, seeking a variation of my never-ending granny square concept for a fuller, baby blanket aesthetic. Eager to embrace the challenge, I revisited and reimagined my original concept to meet this new and delightful demand. Stay tuned for the unveiling of this enhanced and tender version, a testament to the continuous evolution and adaptability of creative pursuits.
Looking Backward
Upon carefully reviewing my basic crochet diagrams, I recognized a missed opportunity in the initial approach. The emphasis on incorporating several strands from one to seven revealed a flaw: for the concept to work seamlessly, an odd number of strands is essential. Rather than starting from scratch, I chose to pivot and delved into a focused study centred around the versatility of three strands.
Although the original designs have proven to be successful, I acknowledged the value of applying current knowledge to refine key structural points. This shift in focus allows me to enhance and optimize the intricacies of the three-strand concept, adding a layer of sophistication to the already established winning formula. In the ever-evolving crochet world, embracing the opportunity to refine and elevate my creations is a testament to the continuous growth and innovation within the craft.
New Design 1 - Reconfigured Never-Ending Grannies
I have yet to sample the new design, but the approach for how it will start will differ from the original design from my teenage years. It's currently a work in progress.
This blanket is 44" x 48". Using Caron One Pound yarn. You could make this bigger as I didn't use all of the yarn for this lapghan size. Use just 3 balls total. Use one ball of Canal, 1 Ball of Sky Blue and 1 Ball of Aqua. Use 5.5 mm / I/9 crochet hook.
Tutorial
New Design 2 - Transitioning Never-Ending Grannies
This design only uses three balls of Caron Colorama Halo. As the blanket gets bigger, the yarn balls themselves are transitioning individually in colour. It gives a completely different look on how it's finished based on the colouring that is applied to each ball. it was incredibly fast to crochet and really is light and airy.
This blanket is 42" x 48" using just 3 balls of Caron Coloram Halo yarn. 1 Ball of Graphite Frost, 1 Ball of Ultra Marine and 1 Ball of Amber Ocean. Use 5 mm / H/8 crochet hook.
Tutorial
Design 3 - Textured Never-Ending Grannies
In reviewing stitch-counts and doing problem-solving, I managed to think about how each colour is its own stitch. One colour always is one type of stitch, the next is another and the third is something else. It gives an incredible array of simplistic texture. 3 colours and 2 balls of each using Bernat Blanket. Of the group of new versions, I think people are going to be obsessed with this version. I know I was really super excited about it myself.
This blanket is 54" x 60". Using 10 mm / N crochet hook.
Use 6 Bernat Blanket balls total. 2 Balls of Vintage White, 2 Balls of Vapour Gray and 2 Balls of Misty Green.
Tutorial
Design 4 - Solid but Textured Never-Ending Grannies
Realizing I could do different stitches based on the colouring, I returned to a baby-size never never-ending granny. I crocheted this in one evening. The one pink colour is accessing the back bar of the stitch, giving the white a bit of lift. It provides a bit of texture but is very eye-pleasing. 3 balls of Bernat Blanket.
Using 8 mm / L/11 hook. Blush Pink, Tan Pink and Vintage White.
The blanket turns into 34" wide (short side) by 36" long (wide side). You can revolve around the blanket 6 times with all colours.
This answers the email request for reconfiguration to be a solid blanket instead of fingers and toes popping out everywhere.
Design 5 - Flat Solid Never-Ending Grannies
This version is more square, using eye-pleasing colours. It has a different starting point and crochets up in a jiffy. This also answers the email request I got. This has no texture and lays completely flat. This uses just one ball each of 3 colours of Bernat Blanket. Using Bernat Blanket, this type of blanket can be made in one evening.
The blanket, as shown, is 36" along the short side by 38" along the long side. All yarns finish at the same corner. The colours revolve around 6 times.
Bernat Blanket colours used are Aquatic, Pale Gray and Vintage White. 1 Ball of each. Use 8 mm /L/11 hook to duplicate this sample.
Marcy says
Are there written instructions for the Flat Solid Never-ending Granny? It's not in the e-book.
Mikey says
The ebook was written over 10 years ago. I did the flat version just a couple years ago. The new solid versions are easier to watch how it's done as it's just a matter of getting started.
Laura Bengelsdorf says
I saw this photo and searched for a written pattern or video tutorial without success. Do you know where I might find the instructions? Thank you for any assistance you may offer.
Wendy Maruna says
We don’t have anything like that. I have seen the photo pop up in groups asking the same. I have only seen the response be a diagram.
Since that link was not from our website, I am not sure what advice to share to help it be located. Perhaps that website can answer the inquiry for you.
Shannon Cleary says
Hi! I'm trying to do a one strand never ending granny rectangle for a blanket. Can any pattern be adapted to make a continuous granny rectangle where I go around and around without slip knots and chains for each row? Thanks!
Mikey says
I'm unsure about that. You may have to select a pattern and try it to see. It's the only way to really know for sure.
Michele (Mickey) Bittner says
Where can I get the new updated pattern of "Crochet Nearly Square Spiral Solid Granny Bernat Baby Blanket"? I bought 6 skeins of Baby Bernat Blanket yarn to make it twice because I think, I'm going to love it but I can't find the new pattern to go along with your video. Please help me as soon as possible. I have two baby showers coming up and have to get them done.
Thank you for everything you do Mikey. I love working with your patterns and left-handed videos.
Michele (Mickey) Bittner
Wendy Maruna says
Hi Mickey,
I know I answered you on YouTube but I will share the answer so anyone else can see it here.
The newer pieces are available only on video at this time. Happy Stitching
Gretchen says
I like this pattern very much. I also like that you give me time to keep up with you as we make the pattern together.
Jodi Walker says
How do you get the Bernat Blanket yarn to look so nice? While I love using it, it never looks as good as yours. It almost looks like you "ironed" it. hahaha
Mikey says
I don't know... Could be like a miracle. I've never had the yarn look weird for presentation. Maybe I am just lucky. 🙂
Criss Desmarteau says
Love your patterns. They are my go to for every pattern. Of course I do use a few other designers, only if you don’t have what I am looking for. Such as a wearable.
Thank you for being you.
Bernadette Lucas says
did you start it with the original magic circle or something different? Can it be a rectangle instead of a square afghan?
Mikey says
The new versions are rectangle. I didn't start with a magic circle.
Nancy H says
This e-Book is well worth the time to download. During the pandemic, I was able to create many (over 12) small-sized afghans for the local Children's Hospital. This unique pattern was so fun to see come to life. Thanks Mikey
Ann says
No blue button
Marina King says
button added
Victoria M Guerra says
HI Mikey,
Thanks for teaching crocheting on youtube, etc, i think your great at it, you explain everything so well, you're not too fast or too slow, you have the knack of speaking before people camera etc. you make it so easy to follow and understand, can't thank you enough, i learned crocheting many years ago i really haven't made many things now that i'm retired i hope to make lots and lots and lots of things.
i do have a question I don't remember which video it was there are several different ways to attach when you want to change your yarn color or if you run out of your yarn: one is making a slip knot on the hook the other one is just laying the yarn over the hook and make the slip knot as you're attaching it and i forgot when you do this i remember you stating in the video that you would be able to notice it meaning being bulky i don't think its hidden as easily in some of the other pattersn, i don't remember which blanket or stitch etc can you help me out? when is that you use that method laying the yarn or the hook then slip stitch when attaching it?
Thank You so much for all that you do
Vicki
libby thompson says
I just wanted to share a method I use to finish one round and start another with the same yarn. On a regular granny square, I start the rounds in the corner by making a standing dc & 2 standard dc. At the end of the round I make a ch 1, then a sc in the top of the standing dc at the beginning. Then when I chain up to start the next round I am in the middle of the corner, so I make 2 dc and continue with the traditional pattern. If there is a color change, I just ch 2 and slip.
I've crocheted for almost 50 years and I find I still learn things from your videos - love them!
Mary Calabrese says
I love your Never Ending Granny Square, thank you for sharing.