Granny Stitch CAL: Free Winter Sweater-Inspired Crochet Square Pattern

There are affiliate links throughout this article. Purchasing through one of the links may provide me with a small commission, but it will not incur any additional costs for you. 

Cozy Winter Sweater Granny Square – Free Crochet Pattern

There’s just something about the granny stitch that feels timeless, and this 12” square is no exception. Inspired by the textures and patterns of a classic winter sweater, this design brings all the cozy vibes right into your blanket-making. It’s the perfect square to curl up with on a chilly day, and it fits beautifully into the Granny Stitch CAL hosted by Debbie of MadameStitch.

The full pattern for this square is forever free on my blog, so you can grab your yarn and hook and start stitching right away. But if you’re the kind of crocheter who loves having everything neat and tidy in one place (and let’s face it—who doesn’t?), there’s a PDF upgrade available.

For just $14.99, you’ll get:
✨ All 12 square designs in the CAL
✨ Step-by-step assembly instructions
✨ A beautiful border pattern to finish your blanket with flair

Yes, you can make the blanket 100% for free, but why not invest in yourself and your time? With the PDF, you’ll have everything at your fingertips—no hunting down links, no waiting, just smooth stitching from start to finish. Think of it as your personal pattern book, ready whenever inspiration strikes.

So whether you’re stitching along with the CAL or building your dream blanket at your own pace, this winter-sweater-inspired granny square will add just the right touch of warmth and charm.

Florida's Emerald Coast- Road Trip CAL 2025

WELCOME to 

FLORIDA'S  EMERALD COAST 

on this awesome Road Trip Around the World!!

all pictures credit to: getwallpapers.com

We're Soaking Up the Sunshine in Pensacola, Florida

Pensacola, FL, located on the Emerald Coast of the Gulf of Mexico, is a beautiful place to live. If you're dreaming of soft white sand and the sound of waves gently crashing on the shore, then Pensacola is your perfect beach escape. This coastal gem offers some of the most beautiful beaches in the country—calm, clear waters, powdery sand, and a laid-back vibe that’s hard to beat.

Pensacola feels like an overgrown small town, with friendly people and a diverse culture. We are the city of five flags, which represents the five different countries or military entities that have occupied Pensacola at one time or another since its establishment in 1559. Pensacola has been ruled by the Spanish, French, British, United States, and the Confederate army. There are amazing old forts to visit in the surrounding area. Fort Pickens, located by Pensacola Beach, is one of the most iconic and interesting to explore (and is my personal favorite).  

Whether you're walking along the water’s edge collecting seashells, catching a perfect sunset, or just enjoying the peaceful rise and fall of the waves, Pensacola is a slice of paradise that invites you to slow down and breathe deeply.

I used the inspiration that I felt from living in Pensacola to design the tenth strip of the Road Trip CAL Blanket. One of my favorite things to do is to sit on the beach early in the morning and listen to the waves. It calms my spirit, and the salty air washes away all my cares. Hopefully, you, as the maker, will feel the calm in the waves as you work the Emerald Coast strip. It is made using simple stitches like sc, hdc, dc, and tr. Once you get in the rhythm of the stitches, you will find yourself lost in the waves. 

🕮 Are you ready to take a crochet journey around the world, but you don't want to hop from site to site? The 2025 Road Trip CAL E-book brings together all 12 unique designs from 12 talented designers, plus a fun printable Road Trip Passport to track your adventure. While each pattern will always be free on the Main Event post, the E-book is a great way to have everything in one place—perfect for offline access or planning ahead. It's available for $19.99!

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Materials:

Lion Brand Heartland: 100% Acrylic (5 oz/142g, 251yd/230m)

Colors Used:

1.5oz Virgin Islands (turquoise/emerald blue)

1.5 oz White Sands (silver grey)

0.5 oz Indiana Dunes (brown)

1.0 Voyageurs (mid blue)

 

Specialty Stitches:

STsc- Standing Single Crochet: https://youtu.be/8MsVeIId2UY?si=ddWrQPyBy3qeNIUT

STtr- Standing Treble Crochet: https://youtu.be/GPBDDO-VYhI?si=2LafPzSAn11RZFIe

 

NOTES:

1-      -Ch4 at the beginning of a row is considered a tr (treble crochet) stitch.

2-      -Ch1 at the beginning of a row is not considered a stitch.

3-     - Be sure to check which side of your work is facing you when you are joining a new color.

 

 

Pattern:

With RS facing and using Color 1, join with a STsc in the first stitch.

Row 1: (RS) sc in each stitch across. (180 sc)

Row 2: (WS) ch1, turn, sc in the first sc, hdc in the next sc, dc in the next 2 sc, tr in the next 4 sc, dc in the next 2 sc, hdc in the next sc, (sc in the next 2sc, hdc in the next sc, dc in the next 2 sc, tr in the next 4 sc, dc in the next 2 sc, hdc in the next sc) 14 x, sc in the last sc. (180 stitches: 30 sc, 30 hdc, 60 dc, 60 tr)

Row 3: (RS) ch1, turn, sc in first st, sc dec, sc in the next 2 st, 2 sc in the next 2 st, sc in the next 2 st, sc dec, sc in the next st (sc in the next st, sc dec, sc in the next 2 st, 2 sc in the next 2 st, sc in the next 2 st, sc dec, sc in the next st) 14 x.  (180 stitches: 150 sc, 30 sc dec)

Row 4: (WS) ch1, turn, repeat Row 3.

Cut color, change to Color 2.

With RS facing and using Color 2, join with a STtr in the first stitch.

Row 5: (RS) tr in the next st, dc in the next 2 sc, hdc in the next sc, sc in the next 2 sc, hdc in the next sc, dc in the next 2 sc, tr in the next 2 st, (tr in the next 2 st, dc in the next 2 sc, hdc in the next sc, sc in the next 2 sc, hdc in the next sc, dc in the next 2 sc, tr in the next 2 st) 14 x. (180 st: 30 sc, 30 hdc, 60 dc, 60 tr)

Row 6: (WS) ch1, turn, sc in each stitch across. (180 sc)

Row 7: (RS) ch1, turn, sc in each sc across. (180 sc)

Row 8: (WS) ch4, turn, tr in the next sc, dc in the next 2 sc, hdc in the next sc, (sc in the next 2 sc, hdc in the next sc, dc in the next 2 sc, tr in the next 4 sc, dc in the next 2 sc, hdc in the next sc) 14 x, sc in the next 2 sc, hdc in the next sc, dc in the next 2 sc, tr in the last 2 sc. ( 180 st: 30 sc, 30 hdc, 60 dc, 60 tr)

Cut Color, change to Color 3

With RS facing and using Color 3, join with a Stsc in the first stitch.

Row 9: (RS) sc in the same stitch, sc in the next 2 st, sc dec, (sc in the next 2 st, sc dec, sc in the next 2 st, 2 sc in the next 2 st, sc in the next 2 st, sc dec) 14 x, sc in the next 2 st, sc dec, sc in the next 2 st, 2 sc in the 4^th chain of the ch4. (180 st: 150 sc, 30 sc dec)

Row 10: (WS) ch1, turn, sc in the first sc, 2sc in the next sc, sc in the next sc, sc dec, (sc in the next 2 sc, sc dec, sc in the next 2 sc, 2 sc in the next 2 sc, sc in the next 2 sc, sc dec) 14 x, sc in the next 2 sc, sc dec, sc in the next sc, 2 sc in the next sc, sc in the last sc. (180 st: 150 sc, 30 sc dec)

Cut Color, change to Color 4

With RS facing and using Color 4, join with a Stsc in the first stitch.

Row 11: (RS) hdc in the next sc, dc in the next 2 sc, (tr in the next 4 st, dc in the next 2 sc, hdc in the next sc, sc in the next 2 sc, hdc in the next sc, dc in the next 2 sc) 14 x, tr in the next 4 sc, dc in the next 2 sc, hdc in the next sc, sc in the last sc. (180 st: 30 sc, 30 hdc, 60 dc, 60 tr)

Row 12: (WS) ch1, turn, sc in each stitch across. (180 sc)

Row 13: (RS) repeat Row 12

Row 14: (WS) repeat Row 12

© Bizzy Crochet and Design 2025

 

Crafting Memories: The Border of the Memories Blanket CAL

                      

Crafting Memories: The Border of the Memories Blanket CAL

Here we are! This is the very last pattern for the Memories Blanket. This is going to be the subtle finish to your blanket that will let the rest of your hard work shine.

One small tip before you move on: I would take the time to block my blanket before adding the border. If yours looks anything like mine did your edges look like the slide at a water park. I found it helpful to lightly block mine so my edges were straighter when I applied my border. This also helped my blanket to lay flat when it was completed.

The fifth textured section:

If you missed Section 5, click the picture below to go to the pattern: 

If you have already completed Section 5, we can move on to The Border. 

The border is going to consist of single crochet and chains. We will be making the Linen/Moss Stitch, which is a simple sc, ch1, sk1, repeat pattern. This is a great place to bring in colors you used throughout the blanket to tie it all together.

One tip, though! This section is going to require a lot of counting in the first round. I recommend breaking out your stitch markers so that you can keep track of where you are as you are crocheting your border foundation row. 

Let's talk colors! 

For this section, I used four different colors. I used this as an opportunity to highlight some of my favorite colors from the blanket. Contrasting Color 1 (CC1) is Sungold,  Contrasting Color 2 (CC2) is Desert Glaze, Contrasting Color 3 (CC3) is Brown, and my Main Color (MC) is Ivory. 

Have fun with it! You can make every row a different color or you can do like I did and use your main color in every other row which causes the contrasting colors to stack on themselves. 

If you want the whole pattern now:

We have made the entire pattern available to you now in a PDF upgrade that includes charts and bonus video links, as well as being available to download in either US or UK terms. It is available for the discounted price of $11.99 through the length of the CAL. You are not required to purchase the PDF- as the patterns will be forever free to view on our blogs in US terms. But, if you ever find yourself in need of extra guidance or inspiration, or you just want it all in one place, don't forget that the option is there to upgrade.

MAKE SURE YOU DOUBLE-CHECK WHICH VERSION YOU ARE CLICKING!!!

Because of the digital nature of the product, there are no refunds.

So, are you ready to finish building your Memory? 

Let's Go!! 

Crafting Memories: Section 5 of the Memories Blanket CAL

   

Crafting Memories: Section 5 of the Memories Blanket CAL

Oh my gosh!! It's the last week of the Memories CAL already!! I can't believe we are already at the last two patterns to be released (Section 5 and the Border). Let's soak up as much as we can this week and finish this awesome Memory off with a bang!

The fourth textured section:

If you missed Section 4, click the picture below to go to the pattern: 

If you have already completed Section 4, we can move on to Section 5. 

Section 5 doesn't have anything that should throw you off at this point. The first portion of this section is going to be rows of single crochet with FPtr in strategic spots that will create a textured diamond. The second portion will be mostly sc's, chains, and dc's. The stitches themselves are something I know that you will be comfortable with. The most fun part of Section 5 is being able to play with colors.

The only big tip I have for you is to make sure you watch closely which stitch post you put your first FPtr around as that will inform the rest of your stitches...and don't forget to skip the sc's behind the FPtr's. If you don't, you will add stitches to your rows. 

Let's talk colors! 

For this section, I used a solid in the diamond textured portion because solids seem to show off the texture better. But, in the second portion, I used four different colors because that portion just "calls" for colors! Contrasting Color 1 (CC1) is Light Sage,  Contrasting Color 2 (CC2) is Brown, Contrasting Color 3 (CC3) is Turquoise, Contrasting Color 4 (CC4) is Sungold, Contrasting Color 5 (CC5) is Cranberry, and my Main Color (MC) is Ivory. 

Have fun playing with the subtle textures created by the colors in this section!

If you want the whole pattern now:

We have made the entire pattern available to you now in a PDF upgrade that includes charts and bonus video links, as well as being available to download in either US or UK terms. It is available for the discounted price of $11.99 through the length of the CAL. You are not required to purchase the PDF- as the patterns will be forever free to view on our blogs in US terms. But, if you ever find yourself in need of extra guidance or inspiration, or you just want it all in one place, don't forget that the option is there to upgrade.

MAKE SURE YOU DOUBLE-CHECK WHICH VERSION YOU ARE CLICKING!!!

Because of the digital nature of the product, there are no refunds.

So, are you ready to dive into Section 5? 

Grab your yarn, your hook, and let's keep building a Memory!! 

Crafting Memories: Section 2 of the Memories Blanket CAL

 

Crafting Memories: Section 2 of the Memories Blanket CAL

I'm so excited!! Today, we are moving on to the second texture section of the Memories Blanket CAL!

Watch the live video where Deb and I discuss Section 2 and give you helpful tips and tricks:

The second square:

If you haven't done it already, make sure you grab the link to the second square of the week, the Cordelia Square. You'll need to complete your second 8-square strip to continue with the Section 2 pattern. Click the picture below to get this pattern:

If you have already completed your 8 square strip- then, it's time to focus on putting an edge on your squares, attaching it to Section 1 (instructions provided below in the pattern), and moving on to Section 2. 

We'll be incorporating some classic crochet stitches like US dc's and chains, but Section 2 will be our most challenging section of the whole blanket. The first portion of the pattern focuses on the Interlocked Diamond stitch, which can be a little tricky to start with but once you have the stitch pattern down- it's so much fun! It truly makes you feel like a crochet genius in the end because it's so simple to do, but looks way more intricate. 

There is a helper video linked below for you to get the hang of working the Interlocked Diamond, and unless you're already familiar with how to work it, I recommend giving it a look. The rest of the second section will focus on rows of chunky clusters and US dc's. 

Let's talk colors! 

For this section, I varied my colors up a bit more. I stuck with my Main Color (MC) in Ivory, but I used more contrasting colors to start incorporating more of the colors I used for the Cordelia Squares. Contrasting Color 1 (CC1) was the nutty brown again, Contrasting Color 2 (CC2) was the cheerful orange, Contrasting Color 3 (CC3) was bright turquoise, Contrasting Color 4 (CC4) was a light sage color, and Contrasting Color 5 (CC5) was a mustardy gold yellow. Of course, feel free to let your imagination run wild and incorporate as many colors as your heart desires!

As you work through Section 2, take your time with the new stitches and savor each skill you learn or continue to master. You are creating a new memory with this blanket and we want it to be a happy one!

If you want the whole pattern now:

We have made the entire pattern available to you now in a PDF upgrade that includes charts and bonus video links, as well as being available to download in either US or UK terms. It is available for the discounted price of $11.99 through the length of the CAL. You are not required to purchase the PDF- as the patterns will be forever free to view on our blogs in US terms. But, if you ever find yourself in need of extra guidance or inspiration, or you just want it all in one place, don't forget that the option is there to upgrade.

MAKE SURE YOU DOUBLE-CHECK WHICH VERSION YOU ARE CLICKING!!!

Because of the digital nature of the product, there are no refunds.

So, are you ready to dive into Section 2? 

Grab your yarn, your hook, and let's keep building a Memory!! 

Crafting Memories: Section 1 of the Memories Blanket CAL

 

Crafting Memories: Section 1 of the Memories Blanket CAL

Hey there crochet friends! Today, we're diving into the first texture section of this delightful project, and trust me, you're in for a treat!

Watch the live video where Deb and I discuss Section 1 and give you helpful tips and tricks:

The first square:

If you haven't done it already, make sure you grab the link to the first square of the week, the Mitered Square. You'll need to complete your first 8 square strip to continue with the Section 1 pattern. Click the picture below to get this pattern:

If you have already completed your 8 square strip- then, it's time to focus on Section 1. We'll be incorporating some classic crochet stitches like double crochet, single crochet, chains, and topstitching to create something truly special. There will be light texture in this section- but lots of fun color pops!

So, let's talk colors! 

One of the best parts of this CAL is the freedom to choose your own color palette. For my blanket, I envisioned a cozy mix of warm tones and vibrant pops of color. I did a Main Color (MC) of ivory, and I used a Contrasting Color 1 (CC1) in a rich nutty brown, Contrasting Color 2 (CC2) was a deep cranberry, Contrasting Color 3 (CC3) was a bright turquoise, and Contrasting Color 4 (CC4) was a cheerful burnt orange. Of course, feel free to let your imagination run wild and incorporate as many colors as your heart desires!

As you work through Section 1, take your time to savor each stitch and embrace the joy of creating something beautiful with your own two hands. And remember, this CAL is all about celebrating memories, so don't hesitate to infuse your blanket with personal touches and sentimental flair.

If you want the whole pattern now:

We have made the entire pattern available to you now in a PDF upgrade that includes charts and bonus video links, as well as being available to download in either US or UK terms. It is available for the discounted price of $11.99 through the length of the CAL. You are not required to purchase the PDF- as the patterns will be forever free to view on our blogs in US terms. But, if you ever find yourself in need of extra guidance or inspiration, or you just want it all in one place, don't forget that the option is there to upgrade.

MAKE SURE YOU DOUBLE-CHECK WHICH VERSION YOU ARE CLICKING!!!

Because of the digital nature of the product, there are no refunds.

So, are you ready to dive into Section 1? 

Grab your yarn, your hook, and let's start building a Memory!! 

Gingerbread House Christmas Sampler Crochet Blanket Pattern

Thank you to everyone who participated in this year's Christmas Blanket CAL! You made it amazing!

Options, options, options...that's the name of the game. Think of it in terms of decorating the walls of your actual gingerbread house. Do you like it with more or less frosting? Do you like lots of colorful candies or just a little? You can decorate your blanket any way you like. This will be a great time to play with color. 

There are more than 10 different stitch patterns in these blankets, with only four of them foundational. The rest of the stitch patterns are where you get to play. 

All of the pattern downloads will be available in both US and UK terminology.

The full pattern is now available for download: Ravelry, and my Website.

Frosting Theme

Candy Theme

Beach Theme

Silver and Red Theme

For your viewing pleasure...the Bizzy Testers:

Alisha used a short repeat gradient for her candy colors which helped her achieve her different colored bobbles.

Debbi kept her colors minimal and simple, choosing only a burgundy red for the center and all white for the rest of her blanket. 

Mik chose waves of green and red that created a fun contrast to the rest of her white frosting sections. 

Niamh made her sample out of crochet thread so she could use it as a table decoration for the holidays. She said it finished up at about 25" x 25".

Tiffiny went with a yummy dark chocolate cookie for her gingerbread house and changed up some of her frosting work to resemble peppermints. 

Vannessa chose a vibrant variegated yarn to achieve a colorful candy look in her blanket.

Wini chose a completely unique color palette that makes you think of pink frosted chocolate cookies with mint chips.  Yum! 

 Thank you to my amazing testers! 

Hopefully, you have found something to inspire you! 

2020 Bizzy Crochet Christmas CAL Preview

HEY!! It's that time of year again! The Bizzy Crochet team is gearing up for the 2020 Christmas Crochet-Along. I know it's only August, but it starts in October and that's going to be here before you know it. 

In this post, I am sharing some basic information concerning the CAL and pictures of this year's projects!

Exeter Gansey Cardigan CAL -Let's Talk Yarn!!

In November, I will be having a CAL (crochet along) for the Exeter Gansey Cardigan (which is part of Annie's Signature Design: 2019 Fall Collection) on Sunday evenings on my Bizzy Crochet Facebook page. I will be having a live chat each Sunday at 7PM CST and we will work through questions about the pattern and anything else you can think of.

I will be making the 2XL size, so I researched some of the yarns I could use to make my cardigan without breaking the bank. This is by no means a comprehensive list of yarns to use, but it is a good list, and a place to start in case you are planning to search for something different as well.

If you would like to join the CAL, you will need to purchase the pattern. You can get the pattern here:

Exeter Gansey Cardigan by Annie's.

Now, let's talk about the yarns you can use to make this pattern: 

Each of the yarns in this list varies in skein size and price, but each of them falls very closely within the parameters of the original yarn for gauge. Each link within the individual yarn descriptions will take you directly to that yarn. Some of the links are affiliates. 

1-King Cole Majestic DK yarn is the original yarn for the pattern. It is a 1.75oz/50g skein for 1.95 Pounds (1.11/oz) or $2.52 USD ($1.44/oz). I have not personally used this yarn, but it is a wool blend with some very pretty colors. The place I found that had the best price and the best selection for this yarn was Wool Warehouse- UK (this link will take you right to the yarn). They ship worldwide and provide amazing customer service!


2- Hobby Lobby Baby Bee Sweet Delight is the yarn I'm thinking about using. I've used this yarn multiple times in everything from blankets to sweaters and hats for babies. This is a very sturdy, but very soft acrylic yarn. The best part is that it's crochet gauge matches exactly to the original yarn used in the pattern. Now, that doesn't mean I'm not going to have to do my own gauge to make sure *I* match with the pattern, but at least I know my yarn is a near-perfect replacement for the original. The other thing I like about this yarn is that you get a lot more bang for your buck. I'm a blue-collar yarn girl, so I like a bargain! haha. Sweet Delight is a 4 oz skein for $5.29 USD ($1.32/oz). Where King Cole would cost me $78.12 USD, the Sweet Delight will only cost me $74.06, and if I watch Hobby Lobby for their every other week 30% off yarn sale, I can get it for $51.84 USD!! The downside to this yarn (for my non-US friends) is that Hobby Lobby only ships in the US.


3- Let's talk quick about my second choice for my sweater, even though is a slightly thinner, more delicate acrylic DK weight yarn than the Sweet Delight...Hobby Lobby's Soft & Sleek DK. I am currently using this yarn to knit the Gansey Stole (another gorgeous Annie's pattern) and it is fantastically soft. It is another one that would be a bigger bang for your buck, although I do worry that it is not a yarn that would stand up well to being sat on. This one might be better for the scarf you're going to want to make to go along with it! Annie's also has a crocheted Gansey Stole. This yarn is $4.99 USD ($1.25/oz) and is generously sized at 4oz. Trust me, this stuff is so soft you just want to snuggle the skeins. You'll get no judgment from me if you do!

Knit Gansey Stole
pattern link above
















Crocheted Gansey Stole
pattern link above

4- Another DK yarn that will hold up like gangbusters and won't break the bank is Stylecraft Special DK. It is acrylic, they have an amazing color range, and their skeins are 3.5oz/100 gms for 1.95 Pounds or $2.52 USD. The same price as the King Cole, but twice the size. I have not used this yarn, but I know lots of people who have and they swear by its durability and quality. Once again, Wool Warehouse UK had the best selection and the best price that I could find. Don't let the whole UK thing scare you, though. They have really reasonable shipping prices and they have a long track record of fairly quick shipping, even if you don't expedite it!


5- If you're looking for a non-acrylic, non-wool alternative, I have two cotton yarns that should work well for you. I would love to say Hobby Lobby again, but I can't. While I really do Love their Cotton yarn, it is too big for this pattern. So, instead, I am going to recommend two other brands. Both can be purchased through Wool Warehouse for very reasonable prices.
The first is Drops Cotton Light. It is a 1.75oz/50g skein of 50%poly/50%cotton blend. So, your shrinkage will be minimal. Best of all, it is a 1 Pound or $1.29 USD per skein. You can get a 2XL sweater for $40! That's not bad at all. I love Drops yarns. They are all beautiful and make lovely garments.
Second is Stylecraft Classique Cotton. This is a 1.75oz/50g skein of 100% cotton. They have a lovely selection of colors available. This is 1.79 Pounds or $2.31 USD/skein.

If you've made it this far into my yarn chatter, then I hope that you will have found something you can use. I didn't want to give you cheap choices that weren't going to hold up in the end. I also didn't want to just point you toward all the really expensive yarns. I wanted to give you some options that included some of my favorites and some unknowns with good reputations.

Good Luck! If you are joining the CAL, make sure you let me know on my Bizzy Crochet Facebook page! And make sure to tell me what yarn you end up choosing!