Book Review: Ultimate Guide to Granny Squares by Leonie Morgan

There’s something rather magical about a granny square, isn’t there? On its own, it’s a neat little piece of crochet. Pleasant. Satisfying. Tidy. But put a collection of them together — especially in the hands of someone like Leonie Morgan — and suddenly you’re not just looking at squares anymore… you’re looking at fabric design. And that’s exactly what The Ultimate Guide to Granny Squares delivers.

BOOK REVIEWS

Carol Ibbetson

4/29/20263 min read

It’s Not Just Squares — It’s Colour in Action

What really stands out in this book isn’t just the individual motifs (although there are plenty to enjoy)… it’s what happens when those motifs come together.

Leonie has a real talent for colour.

Not just “that looks nice” colour — but intentional, graphic, almost architectural use of colour.

When the squares are joined, you start to see:

bold geometric effects
unexpected secondary patterns emerging
colour pathways that draw your eye across the fabric

It’s the kind of thing that makes you stop and think,
“Ah… this is why planning matters.

From Simple Motif to Show-Stopping Fabric

Many of the squares are approachable — you’re not battling wildly complex stitches here.

But the cleverness lies in:

how colours are placed within each square
how those squares interact when repeated
how contrast (or lack of it) completely changes the finished look

This is where the book really shines.

You could make the same square ten times…
or you could make ten squares that talk to each other.

And that’s the difference between a project that’s “nice”
and one that people ask you about.

**A Book That Teaches You to See Colour**

This isn’t just a pattern collection — it quietly trains your eye.

You start to notice:

which colours advance and which recede
how outlines form between motifs
how small changes create entirely different visual effects

And once you see it… you can’t unsee it (you’ve been warned!)

Practical, Inspiring, and Very Easy to Get Lost In

It’s the sort of book you pick up “just to have a look”
and suddenly you’re planning three blankets and a cushion.

The instructions are clear, the layouts are inspiring, and the photography does exactly what it should — it makes you want to pick up your hook immediately.

My Favourite...

I have so many, but I am inspired by one of the projects in the book. This cushion is beautiful as well as being a lesson on the use of colour! What do you think?

🧠 Final Thoughts

If you enjoy granny squares, this book will give you plenty to make.

If you enjoy colourwork, this book will give you ideas.

And if you’ve ever wondered how some crocheted pieces look so striking and cohesive… this book quietly shows you how it’s done.

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