Granny squares are a timeless crochet favorite, and using four colors is a great way to add bold, beautiful dimension to your projects. Whether you’re making a blanket, pillow, or a fun piece of wearable art, learning how to crochet a 4-color granny square opens up endless creative possibilities. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the basics, from color selection and setup to stitching and joining.
To start, you’ll need four yarn colors that complement or contrast nicely—this is where you can really get creative. Choose a consistent yarn weight, like worsted or DK, and make sure your crochet hook matches the recommended size. You’ll also want scissors, a yarn needle for weaving in ends, and possibly stitch markers if you’re just getting started. Prepping your materials helps keep your square clean and consistent.
Crocheting a 4-color granny square begins with a classic center ring, usually worked in one color. Each round introduces a new shade, making the color changes the star of the show. You’ll learn how to change yarns cleanly, carry or cut yarn between rounds, and keep your corners sharp and even. We’ll also go over how to keep your square flat and symmetrical as it grows.
Once your square is finished, it’s time to think about how you’ll use it. You can join multiple squares using techniques like whipstitch, slip stitch, or the join-as-you-go method. We’ll also share ideas for combining colors in creative ways, from bold rainbow vibes to subtle ombrés. With just four colors, a simple granny square can become a stunning foundation for your next crochet masterpiece.
Tutorial and photos of this 4 color granny square by: Ophelia Talks Crochet.