Start with a slipknot
Chain 4
Join with a slip stitch in the first chain to form a ring
Chain 3 (counts as the first double crochet)
Work 2 more double crochets into the ring (total 3 double crochets)
Chain 2
Work 3 double crochets into the ring
Chain 2
Work 3 double crochets into the ring
Chain 2
Work 3 double crochets into the ring
Chain 2
Join with a slip stitch to the top of the chain 3
Cut yarn and pull through if making a “round 1” only, or continue to the next round
For round 2: slip stitch to the space between chain-2 from the previous round
Chain 3
Work 2 double crochets in the same chain-2 space
Chain 2
In the next chain-2 space, work 3 double crochets, chain 2, repeat for each side
At the final side, work 3 double crochets into the last chain-2 space, chain 2
Join with a slip stitch to the top of chain 3
For each additional round: repeat the same pattern
In each chain-2 corner space: work 3 double crochets, chain 2
In each non-corner chain-2 space: work 3 double crochets, chain 2
Continue until the square reaches your desired size
Finish: cut yarn, pull through, and tighten
Weave in ends with a yarn needle
