Sunburst Granny Square Pattern

Mix And Match Details

• Yarn weight: #3 Light, with 12 WPI (wraps per inch)
• Hook size: 5mm (H/5)
• Finished size: 4 x 4 inches (10 x 10 cm)
• Number of rounds: 4
• Stitch count per side: 15 stitches and chain 2 corners

Explore other granny squares of similar sizes for potential pairings. You can search our collection of 4 inch granny squares for more options.

Are The Sunburst And Sunflower Granny Squares The Same Thing?

The terms "sunburst" and "sunflower" granny squares are sometimes used interchangeably, as both designs often feature a central circular motif resembling the sun with radiating "rays" or "petals" around it. 

While they share similarities in their overall look, the specific patterns and techniques used to create them can vary.

Sunburst granny squares usually have a more rounded, concentric circle design in the center, while sunflower granny squares typically have a more distinct flower-like appearance with individual petals like this sunflower granny square pattern.

The color choices for each design can also differ, with sunflower granny squares often using yellows and browns to resemble actual sunflowers and sunburst granny squares are made in many different colors.

Instructions For The Sunburst Square

Below are instructions for making this sunburst granny square pattern it is written for beginners with step-by-step pictures.

You will also find a summary at the end of each round using abbreviated crochet terms to help you get comfortable with reading crochet patterns.

Also, we have a free printable pattern with abbreviated instructions at the end of this page.

If you are new to crocheting you might like to read our guide on how to crochet for beginners, and then read our basic crochet stitches page and our how to read a crochet pattern for beginners.

What You Will Need

Yarn

We used a #3 Light (also known as light worsted, DK, 8ply) yarn weight, with 12 WPI (wraps per inch) in colors black (Color A), dark pink (Color B), orange (Color C), and white (Color B).

Hook

We use a 5mm (H/8) hook to make this crochet square.

However you don't need this specific yarn weight, you can practice with another yarn weight like #4 worsted weight yarn, and use the hook size recommended on the yarn label of the yarn you are using.

Pattern Size

This is a medium sized granny square that measures about 3.75 inches (9.52 cm) unblocked, using the yarn weight and hook size mentioned above.

If you like this crochet square you might also like this free solid granny square pattern with a diamond center.

Stitches And Abbreviations

Here are the stitches and the abbreviations that you will see in this sunburst granny square pattern.

• ch - chain stitch
• hdc - half double crochet
• dc - double crochet
• tr - treble crochet
• hk - hook
• sl st - slip stitch
• st/sts - stitch/stitches
• rnd - round
• rpt - repeat
• [ ]  - at the end of a round indicates the number of stitches in that round
• YO - yarn over hook
• puff - puff stitch (see special stitches section for instructions to make this stitch)
• dc3cl - double crochet 3 cluster (see special stitches section for instructions to make this cluster stitch)
• dc4cl - double crochet 4 cluster (see special stitches section for instructions to make this cluster stitch)

Special Stitches

Listed below are special stitches used in this sunburst granny square pattern with step-by-step instructions on how to make them.

Puff = puff stitch

A puff stitch is several loops pulled up in one stitch. The number of loops for a puff stitch can vary, patterns will have puffs made with as few as four loops or ten or more.

1. Yarn over hook (YO) and insert the hook into a stitch.
2. Yarn over the hook (YO), and pull the yarn back up through the stitch. You will have three loops on the hook.
3. Yarn over the hook (YO), and insert hook back into the same stitch, yarn over hook (YO), and pull yarn through the stitch., You will have five loops on the hook.
4. Yarn over the hook (YO), and insert hook back into the same stitch, yarn over hook (YO), and pull yarn through the stitch., You will have seven loops on the hook.
5. Yarn over the hook (YO), and pull through all seven loops, chain 1 to secure the puff stitch.
6. This completes a puff stitch.

Abbreviated version

Puff - YO, insert hk into st, YO, pull yarn through st (3 loops on hk). YO, insert hk in the same stitch, YO, pull up loop (5 loops on hk). YO, insert hk in same st, YO, pull up loop (7 loops on hk). YO and pull through all loops on hk, ch1.

Double crochet 3 cluster (dc3cl)

A double crochet 3 cluster is made by working three double crochets in the same space and completed as one stitch. This means that it does not change the stitch count.

1. Yarn over hook (YO), insert hook into a stitch, yarn over the hook (YO) and pull the yarn through the stitch. You should have three loops on your hook.
2. Yarn over the hook (YO) and pull the yarn through the first two loops on the hook. You should now have two loops on the hook.
3. Yarn over the hook (YO), insert hook into the same stitch, then yarn over the hook (YO), and pull the yarn through the stitch. You should now have four loops on the hook.
4. Yarn over the hook (YO) and pull the yarn through the first two loops on the hook. You should have three loops on the hook.
5. Yarn over the hook (YO), and insert the hook into the same stitch, yarn over the hook, and pull the yarn through the stitch. You should now have five loops on the hook.
6. Yarn over the hook (YO) and pull the yarn through the first two loops on the hook. You should now have four loops on the hook.
7. Yarn over the hook (YO) and pull the yarn through all four loops remaining on your hook.
8. Chain 2 to secure the stitch.
9. This completes a dc3cl.

Abbreviated Version

dc3cl - YO, insert hook in st, YO, pull up loop, YO, pull through 2 loops, (YO, insert hook in same st, YO, pull up loop, YO, pull through 2 loops) twice, YO, pull through all 4 loops on hook, ch1.

Double crochet 4 cluster (dc4cl)

A double crochet 4 cluster is made by working four double crochets in the same space and completed as one stitch. This means that it does not change the stitch count.

1. Yarn over hook (YO), insert hook into a stitch, yarn over the hook (YO), and pull the yarn through the stitch. You should have three loops on your hook.
2. Yarn over the hook (YO) and pull the yarn through the first two loops on the hook. You should now have two loops on the hook.
3. Yarn over the hook (YO), insert hook into the same stitch, then yarn over the hook (YO), and pull the yarn through the stitch. You should now have four loops on the hook.
4. Yarn over the hook (YO) and pull the yarn through the first two loops on the hook. You should have three loops on the hook.
5. Yarn over the hook (YO), insert the hook into the same stitch, yarn over the hook, and pull the yarn through the stitch. You should now have five loops on the hook.
6. Yarn over the hook (YO) and pull the yarn through the first two loops on the hook. You should now have four loops on the hook.
7. Yarn over the hook (YO), insert the hook into the same stitch, yarn over the hook, and pull the yarn through the stitch. You should now have six loops on the hook.
8. Yarn over the hook (YO) and pull the yarn through the first two loops on the hook. You should now have five loops on the hook.
9. Yarn over the hook (YO) and pull the yarn through all five loops remaining on your hook.
10. Chain 2 to secure the stitch. 
11. This completes a dc4cl.

Abbreviated Version

dc4cl - YO, insert hk in a st, YO, pull up loop, YO, pull through 2 loops, (YO, insert hk in same st, YO, pull up loop, YO, pull through 2 loops) three times, YO, pull through all 5 loops on hk, ch1.

Pattern Notes

• The sunburst granny square is worked in a series of joined rounds.
• The stitches are worked into the spaces between puffs and cluster stitches of previous rounds.

Pattern Instructions

Foundation Ring

Start the sunburst granny square pattern in color A (black yarn) and you can start the foundation of the square with one of the two methods below:

• A foundation ring - Chain 4, then insert the hook into the first chain stitch and join with a slip stitch to form a circle.
• A magic ring - Color A (black). If you like the look of a granny square without a center hole, make a magic ring, because you can tighten the loop after the first round has been made so it is barely visible.

Abbreviated version

Foundation (color A) - Ch4, sl st into 1st st to join. Or make a MR.

Round One

Round 1, image 1 - Chain 3 (counts as 1 double crochet), then make 15 double crochets in the center ring. 

Round 1, image 2 - Join the round with a slip stitch in the top of chain 3, then chain 1, cut the yarn from the ball and pull up through the loop and pull tight to fasten off. 

[You should have 16 double crochets in this round.]

Abbreviated version

Rnd 1, Ch3 (counts as dc), make 15dc into the foundation ring, sl st in top of ch-3, cut yarn, and fasten off. [16dc]

Round Two

Note: For this round refer to the special stitch instructions above for details on how to make a puff stitch.

Round 2, image 1 - Join color B on any double crochet stitch of round 1. To join yarn make a slip knot and slide it on the hook, then make a slip stitch into a stitch of the previous round.

Round 2, image 2 - Chain 2, then make a puff stitch in the same stitch as the chain 2.

Round 2, image 3 - Then make a puff stitch in each of the remaining 15 stitches from round 1.

Round 2, image 4 - Slip stitch into the space between the first and second puff stitch, chain 1, then cut yarn leaving a 6 inch (15cm) tail, pull yarn through loop to fasten it off.  

[You should have 16 puff stitches and 16 chain 1 spaces.]

Abbreviated version

Rnd 2, join color B on any dc st of rnd 1 - Ch2, puff in same st as ch-2, make puff in each of next 15-sts, sl st into sp between 1st and 2nd puff, ch1 cut yarn, fasten off. - [16 x puffs and 16 x ch-1 sps.]

Round Three

Note: For this round refer to the special stitch instructions above for details on how to make dc3 clusters and dc4 clusters.

Round 3, image 1-3 - Join color C in between any of the puff stitches in round 2.

To join yarn make a slip knot and slide it on the hook, then make a slip stitch into a stitch of the previous round.

Then chain 2, and make dc3 cluster (this first cluster stitch counts as dc4 cluster) into the same space as the chain 2.

Then make a dc4 cluster in each space between the puff stitches from round 2.

Step 3, image 4 - Then make a slip stitch into the chain 2 space between the first and second dc4 cluster, chain 1, cut yarn and fasten off.  

[You should have 16 x dc4 clusters and 16 x chain 2 spaces.]

Abbreviated version

Rnd 3, join color C in between any of the puff sts in rnd 2 - Ch2, dc3cl (counts as dc4cl) in same sp as ch-2. * (dc4cl) in each sp between puffs from rnd 2, rpt from * to end, sl st into sp between 1st and 2nd dc4cl, ch1 cut yarn, and fasten off. [16 x dc4cl and 16 x ch-2 sps.]

Round Four

The fourth round turns the circle you just created into a sunburst granny square. To do this you will be working with stitches in different heights to give it a square shape.

Round 4, image 1 - 2 - Join color D in between any of the chain 2 spaces of the round below.

To join yarn make a slip knot and slide it on the hook, then make a slip stitch into a stitch of the previous round.

Next, chain 4 (this counts as the first treble) then make 2 treble stitches in the same space (this is the first half of corner one).

Round 4, image 3 - *In the next chain 2 space work 3 double crochet stitches. 

Then in the next chain 2 space work 3 half-double crochet stitches. Then work 3 double crochet stitches in the next 2 chain space.

In the next chain 2 space (corner 2) work 3 treble stitches, chain 2, 3 treble stitches, repeat from * until you come back to the first corner space.

Round 4, image 4 - Into the first corner space make 3 treble stitches and chain 2, slip stitch into top of first chain 4 made, chain 1, cut yarn and fasten off.

Abbreviated version

Rnd 4, join color D in any ch-2 sp of the previous rnd - Ch4 (counts as tr), 2tr in same sp, *(3dc) in next ch-2 sp, (3hdc) in next ch-2 sp, (3dc) in next ch-2 sp, (3tr, ch2, 3tr) in next ch-2 sp, rpt from * 3 times, (3dc) in next ch-2 sp, (3hdc) in next ch-2 sp, (3dc) in next ch-2 sp, (3tr, ch2) into same sp as ch-4, sl st into top of ch-4, ch1, cut yarn and fasten off. [60dc]

Finishing

Once you have completed the granny square, cut the yarn from the ball leaving a 6-inch (15 cm), and pull it through the last stitch. Use a darning needle to weave in the loose ends.

Adding Extra Rounds To Your Granny Square

If you want to increase the size of the granny square you can work additional rounds after completing round 4.

If you want to continue in the same color as round 4 don't cut the yarn.

Unlike the fourth round the fifth and additional rounds will be worked in double crochet.

How to start round 5 if:

Using the same color yarn as round 4

If you are using the same yarn color as in round 4 don't cut the yarn and change the way join the round at the end.

Instead of making a chain 2 and slip stitching into the top of chain 3 to join the round, you would chain 1 and make a single crochet into the top of chain 3.

This will position the starting 3 chain in the center of the first corner rather than on the edge.

Using a different colored yarn.

Join the yarn in any chain 2 to corner space.

How to work round 5 and additional rounds

Step 1 - Chain 3 (this counts as double crochet), then make 2 double crochets into the corner chain 2 space. This is the first half of the first corner, the other half will be completed at the end of the round.

Step 2 - *Next, work 3 double crochet into each of the next spaces between the stitches of the previous round until you get to the next corner. Then into corner chain 2 space work 3 double crochets, chain 2, and 3 double crochets. Repeat * two more times. 

Step 3 - Then work 3 double crochets into each of the next spaces until you come to the first corner.

Step 4 - Next, into the first corner chain 2 space work 3 dc and chain 2, then join the round by making a chain 1 and make a single crochet into the top of chain 3.

Repeat steps 1 - 4 for as many other rounds as you would like to make.

Variations

This free crochet pattern can also be used to make a sunflower granny square by using yarn in sunflower colors of brown, gold, yellow, and white.

What To Make With Sunburst Granny Squares

Sunburst granny squares can be used to create a variety of projects, such as:

1. Blankets - By joining multiple sunburst granny squares together, you can create a beautiful and colorful blanket. Check out our FAQ section below to see how many squares you need for various-sized blankets.
2. Pillows -  Sunburst granny squares can also be used to make decorative pillows. Simply sew or crochet several squares together, stuff them with a cushion insert, and you have a colorful pillow.
3. Bags - Use sunburst granny squares to make a unique and colorful bag. You can crochet multiple squares and join them together to form the bag or use a single square as a decorative panel on a plain bag.
4. Coasters - Sunburst squares can be used to make cute and colorful coasters. 
5. Clothing - create unique and eye-catching clothing items, such as vests or ponchos. Simply crochet the squares and join them together to form the desired garment.

Overall, the possibilities are endless with sunburst granny squares. You can use them to create any number of beautiful and colorful projects.

Frequently Asked Questions

Color Variations

A sunburst granny square can be made in other colors than the ones I have chosen for this project.

For some color ideas take a look at the links below:

• You could make a blue, yellow and grey sunburst square.
• Or use fresh colors like green, light yellows and whites as this sunburst square.
• Give it a modern look using green, orange and grey.
• Use soft colors like purple, blue and white to create a lovely feminine look.

More Free Crochet Patterns

• Free crochet bookmark patterns
• Small crochet drawstring pouch
• Reusable crochet face scrubbies
• Crochet granny heart coaster
• 8 petal crochet flower coasters
• Small crochet basket pattern with handles
• Moss stitch crochet dishcloth
• Crochet basket with handles
• Granny square bag patterns

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Printable Pattern

Crochet Sunburst Granny Sqaure

This blog post will teach you how to create a stunning sunburst granny square using crochet techniques.

The pattern is easy to follow and perfect for anyone who wants to add some colorful and unique touches to their crochet projects.

With step-by-step instructions and helpful tips, this blog post will guide you through the process of making your own sunburst granny square.

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced crocheter, you'll love the beautiful and intricate design of this classic pattern.

Print Pin Rate

Skill Level : Easy

Makes: 1 sunburst granny square

Author :Harriet

What You Will Need

Yarn (small amounts)

• We used a #3 Light (also known as light worsted, DK, or 8ply) yarn weight, with 12 WPI (wraps per inch) in the following colors: 
• Color A (black)
• Color B (dark pink)
• Color C (orange)
• Color D (white)

Hook

• We used a 5mm (H/5) hook
• Note - you can use another yarn weight and use the hook size recommended on the yarn label.

Notions

• Scissors
• Yarn needle

Finished Size

• Our square measured - 4 inches (10 cm) wide, unblocked, using the yarn weight and hook size mentioned above.

Stitches and Abbreviations Used (Us Terms)

• MR - magic ring
• ch = chain stitch
• dc = double crochet
• hdc = half double crochet
• tr = treble crochet
• hk = hook
• st(s) = stitch(es)
• sl st = slip stitch
• rnd = round
• rpt - repeat
• [ ]  - at the end of a round indicate the number of stitches in that round
• YO - yarn over hook
• puff = puff stitch (see special stitches section for instructions to make this stitch)
• dc3cl = double crochet 3 cluster (see special stitches section for instructions below to make this stitch)
• dc4cl= double crochet 4 cluster (see special stitches section for instructions below to make this stitch)

Special Stitches

• Puff - YO, insert hk into st, YO, pull yarn through st (3 loops on hk). YO, insert hk in the same stitch, YO, pull up loop (5 loops on hk). YO, insert hk in same st, YO, pull up loop (7 loops on hk). YO and pull through all loops on hk, ch1.
• dc3cl - YO, insert hook in st, YO, pull up loop, YO, pull through 2 loops, (YO, insert hook in same st, YO, pull up loop, YO, pull through 2 loops) twice, YO, pull through all 4 loops on hook, ch1.
• dc4cl - YO, insert hk in a st, YO, pull up loop, YO, pull through 2 loops, (YO, insert hk in same st, YO, pull up loop, YO, pull through 2 loops) three times, YO, pull through all 5 loops on hk, ch1.

Instructions

• Foundation (color A) - Ch4, sl st into 1st st to join. Or make a MR.
• Rnd 1, Ch3 (counts as dc), make 15dc into the foundation ring, sl st in top of ch-3, cut yarn, and fasten off. [16dc]
• Rnd 2, join color B on any dc st of rnd 1 - Ch2, puff in same st as ch-2, make puff in each of next 15-sts, sl st into sp between 1st and 2nd puff, ch1 cut yarn, fasten off. - [16 x puffs and 16 x ch-1 sps.]
• Rnd 3, join color C in between any of the puff sts in rnd 2 - Ch2, dc3cl (counts as dc4cl) in same sp as ch-2. * (dc4cl) in each sp between puffs from rnd 2, rpt from * to end, sl st into sp between 1st and 2nd dc4cl, ch1 cut yarn, and fasten off. [16 x dc4cl and 16 x ch-2 sps.]
• Rnd 4, join color D in any ch-2 sp of the previous rnd - Ch4 (counts as tr), 2tr in same sp, *(3dc) in next ch-2 sp, (3hdc) in next ch-2 sp, (3dc) in next ch-2 sp, (3tr, ch2, 3tr) in next ch-2 sp, rpt from * 3 times, (3dc) in next ch-2 sp, (3hdc) in next ch-2 sp, (3dc) in next ch-2 sp, (3tr, ch2) into same sp as ch-4, sl st into top of ch-4, ch1, cut yarn and fasten off. [60dc]
• Finish - Once you have completed the granny square, cut the yarn from the ball leaving a 6-inch (15 cm) and pull it through the last stitch.  Use a darning needle to weave in the loose ends.