Hello, fellow yarn lovers! If you are looking for a bright, cheerful project to add a pop of sunshine to your handmade collection, you are going to love this tutorial. Today, we are learning how to crochet a gorgeous lemon square!
This vibrant design combines a juicy citrus motif with a classic granny square background, making it both fun to stitch and endlessly versatile. Whether you want to whip up a handful for a summery blanket, turn them into coasters, or gift them to a friend, this project is sure to bring a smile to your face.
Materials & Tools Needed
- Yarn: Worsted weight yarn in yellow (lemon center), green (leaves), and a neutral shade like white or cream (background). Cotton yarn is recommended for crisp stitch definition.
- Crochet Hook: Size H/8 (5.0 mm) or the size recommended for your chosen yarn.
- Notions: Yarn needle for weaving in ends, sharp scissors, and optional stitch markers.
Abbreviations & Pattern Notes
- US Terms
- ch: chain
- sl st: slip stitch
- sc: single crochet
- hdc: half double crochet
- dc: double crochet
- st(s): stitch(es)
- Note: Rounds are joined with a slip stitch unless otherwise specified. Be sure to carry or change your colors cleanly for the best visual contrast.
Step-by-Step Pattern Instructions
- Round 1 (The Lemon Center): Using yellow yarn, start with a magic ring. Ch 2 (does not count as a st here and throughout), and work 12 dc into the ring. Join with a sl st to the first dc. Fasten off yellow.
- Round 2 (Shaping the Fruit): Attach your green yarn in any stitch. Ch 1, work 1 sc in the same st, then ch 3 and work 1 sc in the next st (creating a small leaf loop). Repeat this around to form your leaves and lemon edge. Fasten off green.
- Round 3 (Square Foundation): Attach your neutral background yarn in any corner space behind the leaves. Ch 3 (counts as first dc), work (2 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in the same space to form the first corner. *Work 3 dc in the next space along the side, then create the next corner by working (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc)*. Repeat from * to * twice more. Join with a sl st to the top of the initial ch-3.
- Round 4 (Expanding the Square): Ch 3, dc in each st across to the corner. In each ch-2 corner space, work (2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc) to maintain a crisp, square shape. Join with a sl st. Fasten off.
Finishing & Helpful Tips
- Maintain Even Tension: Keep your stitches consistent so your square stays flat and symmetrical without warping at the corners.
- Weave As You Go: Because this project involves multiple color changes, weaving in your yarn tails as you finish each section will save you time at the end.
- Block Your Work: Lightly steam or wet-block your finished lemon squares to straighten the edges and highlight the crisp geometric shape.
- Endless Possibilities: Join several squares together using your favorite joining method to create blankets, pillow covers, or vibrant table runners!
Watch the Step-by-Step Video Tutorial
Prefer visual guidance? Follow along with the complete video tutorial below: