Spike Stitch Granny Square
Instructions to make a granny square with spike stitches in the middle spaces for a striking closed square look. You can use any gauge yarn. The pattern shows up well whether using a single color, ombre, or changing colors each round.

Hook size: use corresponding hook size noted on yarn label

Commonly used terms:
ch chain
slst slip stitch
dc double crochet
yo yarn over

Make a magic ring

Round 1:
Ch3 (counts as first dc here and throughout), 2 dc in the ring - 1st cluster of 3, ch2. This starts your first corner. * 3dc, ch2 for next corner. * Repeat from * 2 times. Slst into the top stitch of 1st chain 3 to close round and complete first corner. Pull ring closed. Do not cut yarn or ring will reopen.

Round 2:
Ch3, make 2dc in the same corner. In next corner * 3dc ch2, 3dc * to make a new corner. Repeat from * in the next corner. In the final corner, 3 dc, ch2, slst to top stitch of 1st chain 3 of the round.

Round 3:
Begin same as round 2 (ch3, 2dc in the same corner) In the first middle space: 1 dc in the top of the 3rd dc in the 3dc cluster of the row below, make a spike dc stitch in the center of the middle space (yo, insert hook through the top of the 2nd dc of the 3dc cluster 2 rows below, yo from behind and pull the loop through, yo, pull through 2, yo, pull through 2), 1 dc in the top of the 1st dc in the 3dc corner cluster of the row below.
* In the corner, 3dc, ch2, 3dc. In the next middle space: 1dc in the top of the 3rd dc in the 3dc cluster of the row below, 1 spike dc (as instructed above) in the top of the 2nd dec in the 3dc cluster 2 rows below, 1dc in the top of the 1st dc in the 3dc corner cluster of the row below. * Repeat from * 2 times. In the final corner, 3dc, ch2, slst to top stitch of 1st chain of 3 of the round.

Repeat round 3 until the square is desired number of rounds.
Note: The number of middle spaces will increase by 1 on each side as your rounds increase. Ex: round 4 will have 2 middle spaces on each side of your square, round 5 will have 3 middle spaces on each side of your square.