Book Review – Granny Square Chic

The humble granny square has had quite the glow-up, and Granny Square Chic proves it’s more stylish than ever. This WeCrochet collection is a fresh take on one of crochet’s most beloved motifs, showing just how versatile and modern a simple square can become when stitched with creativity.

Inside, you’ll find 12 contemporary crochet patterns that elevate granny squares far beyond blankets. Think bold garments, playful accessories, and chic home décor pieces that make a statement without losing that touch of nostalgia we all love. Each design uses the granny square as a building block but takes it in unexpected directions—fashionable tops, colorful bags, and cozy wraps that feel trendy yet timeless.

The book is thoughtfully laid out with step-by-step instructions, charts, and clear photography. Even if you’re still relatively new to crochet, the projects are approachable, while more seasoned crocheters will appreciate the design twists and opportunities to experiment with color.

Why you’ll love Granny Square Chic:

12 modern projects beyond the classic afghan.
Stylish, wearable patterns that celebrate crochet’s heritage.
A perfect stash-busting collection—granny squares are made for scraps!
Great for adventurous beginners and experienced crocheters alike.

What I adore about this collection is that it feels fresh but also deeply nostalgic. It’s the kind of book that inspires you to dive into your yarn stash, whip up a stack of squares, and start building something fabulous.

You can grab your copy of Granny Square Chic over at KnitPicks, and it just might change the way you look at granny squares forever.

Let’s be honest, red pandas already look like they were designed by someone with a yarn stash — rusty orange fur, tiny masked faces, fluffy striped tails, and just enough mischief to make them irresistible.

If you love woodland amigurumi, animal crochet patterns, or quick crochet gifts for kids and animal lovers, a red panda crochet pattern is such a sweet project to add to your list. Most of these designs use simple amigurumi shaping, with the real personality coming from the colour changes, face details, and that very important fluffy tail.

I’ve gathered together a mix of free red panda crochet patterns and paid PDF patterns, including beginner-friendly plushies, mini keychains, chubby no-sew styles, and more realistic designs for makers who like a bit of detail.

Red Panda Crochet Patterns To Try

Red Panda Amigurumi – Free Crochet Pattern
This free red panda amigurumi pattern from StringyDingDing is a lovely starting point if you want a classic stuffed animal style. The design uses medium-weight yarn and has that sweet rounded amigurumi look that works well for gifts, nursery décor, or a handmade animal collection. StringyDingDing also notes that their site offers hundreds of free amigurumi patterns, which makes it a useful source for crochet toy makers.

Rumi the Red Panda
Rumi is especially nice for newer amigurumi makers because the pattern uses basic stitches such as single crochet, increases, decreases, and the magic ring. The finished red panda has a soft, gentle look rather than a highly detailed realistic style, which makes it a cute choice for beginners who still want something with personality.

Flynn & Rumi – The Tale of a Fox and Red Panda
This is a sweet two-animal option if you like themed makes or want matching woodland toys. The red panda and fox patterns are described as beginner-friendly and use basic amigurumi techniques, so this would be lovely for a gift set or a woodland nursery shelf.

Free Red Panda Crochet Pattern
This mini red panda keychain from DIY Fluffies is a great scrap-yarn project. It is designed as a small amigurumi keychain and the designer says it can be made in about an hour, so it’s perfect for market prep, stocking fillers, or those “I need a quick cute thing” moments.

Adzuki the Chubby Red Panda
Adzuki has that wonderfully round, squishy look that makes chubby amigurumi so appealing. The pattern description highlights the spherical shape and small limbs, making it a good pick if you prefer cute and simplified rather than realistic.

Tashi Realistic Crochet Red Panda Pattern
This one is better for crocheters who enjoy detail. Tashi is a more realistic red panda design made with fuzzy wool yarn, and the designer notes that the finished animal measures about 6 inches from nose to bottom. This would be a beautiful choice for someone who likes their amigurumi to look more like a collectible handmade animal.

Roxy Red Panda Crochet Pattern
This paid Etsy PDF pattern includes detailed instructions, materials, and step-by-step photos, according to the listing. It is a good option to include if you want a polished paid pattern alongside the free designs.

Crochet Red Panda Patterns On Etsy
Etsy has a wide range of red panda crochet patterns, from plush chenille toys and loveys to low-sew amigurumi and keychain-style designs. It’s worth browsing if you want paid PDF patterns with a very specific style, such as chunky plush, baby-safe lovey, realistic red panda, or no-sew market make.

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