What is Filet Crochet?

1. Basic filet crochet is crochet made up of blocks, usually using two different stitches. Double Crochet (US terminology) and Chains form these blocks. They can be constructed with a Double Crochet each side of one chain, or they can have two chains between the Double Crochets. My Mosaic Blanket uses one chain per block.

   The picture shown right is of my Mosaic Filet Blanket. This uses basic block filet crochet.

   Many filet patterns come in graph form only. The graphs are worked with odd rows from right to left and even rows from left to right.

   I do love a bit of filet crochet. Watching the pattern slowly appear is very satisfying. It can look fabulous if done in a neat manner, but getting those neat little blocks can be tricky. So if your filet work is looking more like a maze no one is ever going to get out of, below are some helpful little tips to keep it neat.

   Your initial starting chain needs to be the same tension as your rows will be. If you feel you tend to work your chain a lot tighter, then go up a hook size. If you don't, the beginning or bottom of your blanket may bow.

   Keep your tension the same throughout so your stitches can form the blocks in a neat manner.

   Keep your stitch height the same throughout. Tension and stitch height are not the same thing. If you have issues with stitch height, there are many helpful tutorials online.

   It is very tempting to use that chain loop to crochet around instead of into. If you want your filet to really pop, take the time to work any stitches that are placed as solid blocks into the chain (not around it).

   Ensure each Double Crochet sits squarely on top of the Double Crochet of the row below.

   Chaining 3 at the beginning of a row for that first stitch can look messy. A Standing Double Crochet (US terminology), Treble Crochet (UK terminology) can add neatness to your edges.

   Count your stitches each row and section. Finding out you have missed a stitch 10 rows back is no fun at all.

   Think about your yarn choice. Some colours tend to show the filet work better than others, and fibre content can also make a difference. A flat yarn such as cotton will show more defined stitches.

Filet Crochet doesn’t have to be limited to just open and closed blocks. Once you’re comfortable with the basics, you can explore more advanced techniques—like creating blocks that span two standard-sized blocks, using chains and Single Crochet (US terminology). The photos below show a close-up example of this technique. You can also learn how to increase and decrease blocks, as demonstrated in the picture below.

My 'Fishing for Luck' Shawl/Wrap is one of my most popular designs, incorporating added blocks to create delicate netting, from which small clover leaves hang.

At this stage in my design career, I’ve created approximately 185 designs, with a large portion featuring Filet Crochet.

If you haven’t tried Filet Crochet yet, grab your hook and give it a go!

Below are just a few examples. All of these patterns are available on Ravelry and Etsy, and those using Bendigo Mill cotton can also be found on their webpage. If you find these tips helpful, consider buying me a cup of tea—the button is at the bottom of the page.

An example of more advanced techniques that can be incorporated into Filet Crochet,