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Few crochet motifs spark joy quite like the sunburst granny square (also loved as the sunflower granny square)! Combining four textured rounds — a rich center, fluffy puff stitches, plump 4-dc cluster petals, and a squaring granny frame — this iconic motif turns scrap yarn into unforgettable tote bags, boho cardigans, and heirloom throws.
Why You’ll Love This Crochet Tutorial
- Plump, Touchably Soft Texture: Puff and cluster rounds give gorgeous 3D dimension.
- Endless Color Combinations: Try warm terracotta, honey mustard, and cream for autumn vibes, or pastel pinks and sage for spring!
- Easy Squaring Round: Uses treble crochets in the corners and half-double crochets on the sides to turn a circle into a crisp square.
Materials & Yarn Tips
For crisp stitch definition that is easy on your hands, pair Category 4 Worsted Cotton or Acrylic (4 colors) with an ergonomic 5.0 mm (US H-8) hook. If you are substituting from your stash, check our Crochet Yarn Weight Chart and Hook Size Conversion Guide so your finished gauge stays right on target.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Round 1: Warm Center Circle
With Color A (Terracotta or Espresso), work 16 double crochet stitches into a magic ring (starting ch-3 counts as first dc). Pull snug and fasten off.
Step 2: Round 2: Fluffy Puff Stitch Ring
Join Color B (Golden Mustard) in any stitch. Work 1 plump puff stitch + ch 1 in each of the 16 stitches around so you have 16 golden rays.
Step 3: Round 3 & Round 4: Cluster Petals & Squaring Frame
With Color C (Soft Peach), work 16 four-double-crochet clusters in the ch-1 spaces. Then join Color D (Cream) to square the circle using treble crochet corners, double crochets, and half-double crochets along the centers!
Pull your loops up to full double-crochet height when making Round 2 puff stitches — short, tight loops are the #1 reason puff stitches feel stiff!
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Finishing & Blocking Advice
Once your final stitch is fastened off, thread your yarn tail onto a blunt tapestry needle and weave it securely back and forth in three directions through the back of matching stitches. Pinning your finished piece to measurements on a foam mat with a light mist of water (or gentle hover-steam for acrylic) relaxes every loop so corners sit crisp and professional!
Frequently Asked Questions
How many sunburst squares do I need for a tote bag?
13 sunburst squares make a classic boho market tote bag — and they look gorgeous joined with flat slip stitch!
Sunburst Granny Square Crochet Pattern (Sunflower Motif)
Crochet a cheerful retro sunburst granny square featuring plush puff stitches, plump cluster petals, and a crisp cream border.
Materials
Tools
- 5.0 mm (US H-8) crochet hook
- Tapestry needle for weaving ends
- Scissors
Abbreviations (US Terms)
Instructions
- Round 1 (Color A): In MR, ch 3 (counts as dc), work 15 dc into ring. Join with sl st to top of ch-3, fasten off. (16 dc)
- Round 2 (Color B): Join in any st. Ch 2, puff in same st, ch 1. *Puff in next st, ch 1; repeat from * around (16 puffs). Sl st to 1st puff, fasten off.
- Round 3 (Color C): Join in any ch-1 sp. Ch 2, work beg CL, ch 2. *Work 4-dc CL in next ch-1 sp, ch 2; repeat from * around (16 clusters). Join with sl st, fasten off.
- Round 4 – Squaring (Color D): Join in any ch-2 sp. Ch 4 (counts as tr), (2 tr, ch 2, 3 tr) in same sp for 1st corner. *3 dc in next ch-2 sp, 3 hdc in next ch-2 sp, 3 dc in next ch-2 sp, (3 tr, ch 2, 3 tr) in next ch-2 sp; repeat from * around, omitting last corner. Join to top of ch-4 and fasten off.
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- Crochet right over your loose yarn tails as you work each new color round to cut end-weaving time in half!
Just finished 13 of these in mustard, rust, blush, and cream for a summer market bag! The instructions for squaring the circle in Round 4 are crystal clear.
Ooh Sofia, mustard + rust + blush + cream sounds like the dreamiest palette! Enjoy showing off your handmade bag!