A Gentle Way to Learn Crochet During the In-Between Days ~ Free Granny Square Pattern

mavisandflo
Dec 28, 2025
3 min read

Updated: Jan 15

There is something very special about this quiet space between Christmas and the New Year. The days blur together, routines soften, and time feels slower ~ almost like an invitation to breathe a little deeper and move a little more gently. And to eat some more chocolate.

This in-between season is the perfect time to begin something new ~ like learning how to crochet ~ gently and without pressure.

Not because you need to be productive, or set big goals ~

but because you finally have the time and permission to go slow.

Neutral crochet granny square made with soft yarn, perfect for beginners learning crochet gently — A gentle place to begin — the humble granny square.

Eleven years ago, I taught myself how to crochet. I was a very slow learner, and for a long time I believed that was a big flaw. And I was so harsh on myself. It wasn’t until much later that I realised I simply learn best when I can move between written instructions, visual steps, and tutorials ~ at my own pace, without pressure.

Hand holding a crochet granny square in progress, showing slow and mindful crochet learning — Learning at my own pace, without pressure.

That understanding now sits at the heart of how I design and share my patterns.

And today, I wanted to go right back to the beginning. I also have a free tutorial where I show some crochet basics. You can find it here.

If you’re ready to begin, you can find the full free granny square tutorial ~ including step-by-step photos and a video — here:

Free Granny Square Crochet Tutorial

The Granny Square — Where Crochet Begins

If you’ve ever wanted to learn how to crochet, the granny square is the perfect place to start.

It teaches the foundational stitches, builds confidence quickly, and opens the door to endless creative possibilities. From a single square, you can create blankets, bags, jumpers, cushion covers — even small everyday pieces like washers or coasters.

With this free granny square pattern, you can choose how you learn:

A step-by-step photo tutorial, so you can pause and revisit each stage
Or a video tutorial, for visual, guided learning

There is no rush. No right or wrong pace. Just gentle repetition and the joy of watching something grow in your hands.

Person sitting comfortably and crocheting at home, enjoying a calm and creative moment — A quiet creative moment, just for you. (I sit here often)

A Creative Moment Just for You

Learning to crochet is more than learning a skill.It’s a way to carve out a small pocket of time just for yourself.

A way to rest your mind, move your hands, and immerse yourself in something creative ~ which is so nourishing for the heart and soul. For me crochet is like yoga for my mind and hands.

If you find yourself in that quiet post-Christmas lull, unsure what day it is, craving something slow and grounding — I invite you to begin here.

Pick up a hook. Choose a soft yarn. And let yourself learn gently.