Thanks for the link to Granite - fantastic tool.
Can create really warm and "analog" sounds compared to many other granular tools.
The intuitive way parameter automation works (and can be saved in presets) is brilliant as well!
Something else that I find helpful is http://hypermammut.sourceforge.net/paulstretch/
Slowing down stuff extremely is a great way to create textures.
Also fun: DFX Scrubby, Skidder and Transverb by Destroy FX: http://destroyfx.smartelectronix.com/
To mangle things that are just too even.
And if your sound got too muddy:
You Wa Shock! http://www.kvraudio.com/db/4270
ATM my favorite exciter...
But something else I can really recommend: go through your apartment, kitchen, cellar, garage and look for stuff to make into "instruments". A heavy steel-ruler here gives the most beautiful gong sound with a Scherfler contact microphone.
The same microphone on a sheet of chrome steel and some simple bendings - amazing
Or a normal household wire stretched over 2 meters or roof batten, played with a cello bow and made more resonant with the same above sheet of steel...
So much fun
Cheers!
Thomas