How to Crochet a Granny Square Pullover (Ages 1–5 Years)

Below is a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to crochet a Granny Square Pullover for children aged 1–5 years. The pattern is written in simple terms so beginners can follow it easily.

How to Crochet a Granny Square Pullover (Ages 1–5 Years)

A granny square pullover is a classic, cozy handmade sweater made by joining crochet granny squares. It is comfortable, adjustable, and perfect for toddlers and young children.

Materials Needed

• Yarn:

  • Medium weight yarn (Category 4 – worsted weight)

  • Soft cotton or acrylic yarn is best for children

  • Approximate yarn required:

    • Age 1–2: 250–300 g

    • Age 3–4: 300–350 g

    • Age 5: 350–400 g

• Crochet Hook:

  • 4.0 mm – 5.0 mm (choose based on yarn label)

• Other Tools:

  • Yarn needle

  • Scissors

  • Measuring tape

  • Stitch markers (optional)

Crochet Abbreviations (US Terms)

• ch – chain

• sl st – slip stitch

• sc – single crochet

• dc – double crochet

• sp – space

• rep – repeat

Step 1: Crochet the Granny Squares

Each pullover is made from basic granny squares.

Basic Granny Square Pattern

1. Magic Ring (or ch 4, sl st to form a ring)

2. Round 1:

   • Ch 3 (counts as first dc)

   • 2 dc into ring

   • Ch 2

   • 3 dc, ch 2 – repeat 3 more times

   • Sl st into top of ch 3

3. Round 2:

   • Sl st to next ch-2 corner

   • Ch 3, 2 dc, ch 2, 3 dc in same space

   • Ch 1

   • 3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc in next corner, ch 1 – repeat around

   • Sl st to join

4. Round 3+:

   • Continue same pattern

   • 3 dc in each side space

   • (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in each corner

Step 2: Square Size by Age

Crochet squares until they reach the following approximate sizes:

Step 3: Number of Squares Needed

Total squares: 4

Step 4: Joining the Squares

Lay the squares flat:

• Place front and back squares together

• Attach one square to each side for sleeves

Joining Method (Simple Whip Stitch or Slip Stitch)

• Use a yarn needle or crochet hook

• Join shoulders first

• Leave space in the center for the neck opening

• Join side seams, leaving space at the bottom for armholes

Step 5: Crochet the Sleeves

1. Attach yarn at the armhole

2. Crochet in rounds using:

   • 3 dc clusters (granny stitch)

3. Decrease gradually by skipping clusters every few rounds

4. Continue until sleeve reaches desired length:

   • 6–7 inches for ages 1–3

   • 8–9 inches for ages 4–5

5. Finish sleeve with:

   • 1 round of sc for neat edges

Repeat for the second sleeve.

Step 6: Crochet the Body Length

1. Attach yarn at bottom edge of pullover

2. Work granny stitch rounds evenly around

3. Crochet until desired length:

   • Age 1–2: 10–11 inches

   • Age 3–4: 12–13 inches

   • Age 5: 14 inches

4. Finish with 1–2 rounds of sc or dc for a clean border

Step 7: Neckline Border

1. Attach yarn around neck opening

2. Crochet 1–2 rounds of sc

3. Optional:

   • Add picot stitch or shell stitch for decoration

Step 8: Finishing Touches

• Weave in all loose ends

• Lightly block the pullover to shape

• Optional:

  • Add buttons

  • Add a hood

  • Use color-changing granny squares for a fun look

Tips for Best Results

• Always measure the child or compare with an existing sweater

• Choose soft, non-itchy yarn

• Keep stitches loose for comfort

• Adjust square size easily for growth

Conclusion

A granny square pullover is a beautiful and beginner-friendly crochet project for children aged 1–5 years. With just a few squares and basic stitches, you can create a warm, colorful, and handmade garment that grows with the child.

If you’d like, I can also:

• Write this as a PDF pattern

• Create a size-specific pattern

• Add pictures or stitch charts

• Simplify it further for beginners 😊

Watch tutorial: