Book Review: Crochet Granny Square Tops, Bags & More by Salena Baca, Aug 2025

The Concept

Salena brings a fresh eye to this timeless technique, offering a collection of 10 projects that use granny squares in creative ways. Think trendy tops, chic bags, hats, shrugs, and more—each designed with an eye for wearability and modern appeal.

Granny squares are the perfect starting point for these projects: modular, portable, and easy to learn. Salena takes the classic motifs and shows how they can be stitched into something that feels current and polished, without losing their handmade charm.

The Projects

This book is full of vibrant, head-turning designs that are as fun to wear as they are to make. Highlights include:

• The Button Front Top – a lightweight, lacy garment that layers beautifully

• The Market Tote Bag – modern, bold, and practical

• The Side-Split Top – colourful and fun to wear, perfect for summer

• The Newsboy Hat – so cute!

Each pattern includes clear written instructions in US crochet terms, a materials list, detailed assembly guidance, and colour suggestions. Many designs are beginner-friendly, but there’s enough variation in shape and construction to keep intermediate crocheters interested too.

Style and Construction

Salena’s patterns strike a great balance between structure and drape. She’s also brilliant at turning flat squares into shaped garments through clever construction and easy joining techniques. Most projects are made with worsted or DK weight yarns, making them quick to work up and satisfying to finish.

The book includes a whole introductory session on creating the perfect granny square, with full written instructions as well as an accompanying chart.

When joining squares together not only does Salena give three options with full instructions (Join As You Go, Slip Stitch Join and Sewn Join), she also has step by step images for each technique from beginning to end.

My Favourite...

I had no problems with this one - The Button Front Top just jumped out at me and as I already have a selection of the yarn used, all I need to do is decide on the colour. Fantastic!

My Observations

This book is a real treat if you love granny squares but want to take them beyond the usual blanket. It’s playful, practical, and full of wearable inspiration.

Here’s what I especially loved:

• A variety of project types—not just clothing, but accessories too

• Modular construction makes many projects highly portable and beginner-friendly

• How to get the best fit for each wearable - either for a fitted style or oversize style

• Clear and accessible instructions with a clean, attractive layout

• All projects feel modern and wearable—not at all dated or overly “retro”

Summary

Crochet Granny Square Tops, Bags & More is a stylish and creative exploration of how versatile the humble granny square can be. With Salena Baca’s guidance, you’ll learn to turn these classic motifs into gorgeous garments and accessories you’ll be proud to wear. Whether you're a newer crocheter looking for your first wearable project or a seasoned stitcher looking to freshen up your wardrobe, this book offers plenty of colour, comfort, and creativity.

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