LAKES COAST VISITOR GUIDE | PAGE 37 TRARALGON The timeless charm of the granny square "Choo choo!" All aboard for a trip to Granny Square Central. The granny square is an iconic part of crochet history, loved for its colour, charm, and endless possibilities. Do you remember snuggling under a warm, colourful crocheted blanket as a child, trying to count every shade? Or perhaps there was a bright cushion or pillow sitting proudly on the leather couch—so cheerful it made you smile the moment you saw it. Are you still getting over the resurgence of the granny square in the 1970s? Bright lime greens fought with sharp red purples, while mission brown was lined up against yellow ochre, burnt orange and 'strike me pink'. Everything from coasters, scarves, ponchos to men's ties were part of the granny square craze. So brace yourself, it's all back again. The granny square is thought to have originated around the latter part of the 19th century. The first documented written pattern appeared in 1897. Some 12 years earlier an Afghan style crazy quilt was created by Mrs. Phelps - a member of the Housekeepers Improvement Club of Chicago. A similar granny square pattern was published in the April 1885 edition of 'The Prairie Farmer', a USA rural magazine. Its design was blocks of bright colours tied together by a black border. The 1930s came with a deep depression leading to hard times for people. In Europe these coloured squares being joined by a common colour border was known as "American Crochet" and the term 'granny square' was now popular. The name is thought to have come from the older woman or 'grannies' making clothes and houseware items from leftover scraps of yarn. Like most things that are simple and good, the granny square has endured the test of time. It's a great starting point for the beginner. It can be a square to be made into a beanie or joined with others to make a scarf. Squares can be joined to make a spectacular coat or blanket. A granny square is a great experiment in colours, anything from neutral shades of whites, greys, beiges and blacks, to vibrant red, yellow, orange, blue and green. They can be so much fun arranging and rearranging different colour squares, all the while learning about colour combinations and the way different arrangements can give a totally different look and feel. The bonus with Granny Squares is they can be made in small bites whilst travelling, or on the go. You could take advantage of the more affordable fares on trains and buses, that are currently on offer. Here at Miss Millys, we've seen a wonderful increase in workshop attendance, with people travelling from all over Gippsland to join our classes. Spring has sprung, and after a cold winter, it's the perfect time to get out and about. Travelling is even better when you have a small, portable project on hand—like granny squares. We offer one-to-one crochet classes for beginners through to advanced makers. Whether you'd like to learn new stitches, build confidence reading patterns, or explore different joining techniques, we'd love to help. Give us a call or visit our website to find more info on class times and availability. Miss Milly’s is seeing an increase in number at workshops, as the ‘granny square’ crochet phase is making a comeback. Extensive best brands range of wool, yarn, patchwork fabric & all types of threads and associated accessories. All year round classes to preserve the skills, knowledge & traditions of crafting. PB37843 Call for details on upcoming availability. Call in & have a browse! 1/74 Seymour St, Traralgon | 0419 321 479 | Shop Online! missmillysmytime.com.au
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