🧩 Granny Cluster crochet stitch

Groups of 3 that make the classic granny square. Beginner US: 3dc UK: 3tr

In US terms this is the Granny Cluster (3dc). In UK terms the same stitch is called the Granny Cluster (3tr). They are the identical stitch — only the name changes. Not sure which system a pattern uses? If it mentions a single crochet, it's US; if it mentions a half treble, it's UK. Convert any pattern with the US ↔ UK tool.

Video tutorial — pick your hand

Every stitch in Crochets has a mirrored lesson for lefties — no more mentally flipping videos.

🎬 Right-handed video by Maddy Marie on YouTube.

How to crochet the Granny Cluster — step by step

Work 3 dc into the same chain-space
Chain 1, move to next space
Repeat around, join with slip stitch

Instructions use US terms. Working left-handed? Do exactly the same moves as a mirror image — insert the hook from the same side of the stitch, working from left to right instead of right to left.

Where to use it

Granny stitches are cluster-based and fast, and they tolerate uneven tension better than anything else — which is why they're beloved by beginners and sellers alike.

Common mistakes with the Granny Cluster

Working clusters into stitches instead of into the chain spaces between clusters.
Skipping the corner chain in squares — corners need extra chains to lie flat.
Not blocking; a wash and a pin-out turn wobbly grannies into crisp geometry.

Planning a project with the Granny Cluster? Use the free yarn calculator to work out how many skeins you need, and the foundation chain calculator to get the width right the first time.

Related granny stitches

🌈 Granny StripeGranny clusters in rows — blanket speedrun.↘️ Corner to CornerBuild diagonally in blocks — graphghan engine.⛓️ ChainThe foundation of everything. Your very first stitch.

Frequently asked

What is the Granny Cluster in UK terms?

The Granny Cluster has the same name in UK and US terminology, abbreviated 3dc.

Is the Granny Cluster good for beginners?

It is a beginner stitch — you can learn it in your first week. Groups of 3 that make the classic granny square.

Can I crochet the Granny Cluster left-handed?

Yes. Left-handed crocheters work the same stitch as a mirror image — right to left becomes left to right. Crochets includes a left-handed video for the Granny Cluster, and its pattern tools write instructions in your working direction.

What is the Granny Cluster used for?

Granny stitches are cluster-based and fast, and they tolerate uneven tension better than anything else — which is why they're beloved by beginners and sellers alike.

Learn the Granny Cluster in your hand, at your pace

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