Filet is the French word for net, and gives a strong clue to the overall look of filet crochet pieces. Just two stitches are needed to create beautiful works; the chain and treble crochet stitches (US name, double crochet).
By alternating these two stitches, a mesh is built up, row by row and a series of blocks appears. However, by “filling in” those blocks, with another treble stitch, rather than a chain, it’s easy for a pattern to emerge.
Block Sizes
Some crocheters prefer blocks made up of two chains, while other crafters prefer just one. Try the technique for yourself and see which you prefer; just remember to keep your block size consistent throughout.
To work Filet Crochet
(This instruction assumes a one-chain block)
Your foundation chain should be an odd number of stitches, plus three (for your turning chain)
Each block comprises two stitches which will either be a treble and a chain, or two treble, according to the requirements of your pattern. The final odd stitch, is always a treble. If you're simply working the background mesh, then this is made with a repeat of 1 treble, 1chain and finishing with a final treble.
Free Checkerboard pattern
To work a simple chequer board pattern
One chain block
Make a foundation chain using a multiple of 4 chain, plus 5
Foundation row: Work 1 treble into 4th chain from hook, 2 treble *1 chain, miss next stitch, 3 treble; repeat from * to end.
(NB – the four stitches of the repeat represent two blocks; one comprises a chain and a treble, the other comprises two trebles).
1st row: 4 chain (for first treble and chain), miss two stitches *3 treble, 1 chain, miss next stitch; repeat from * to last stitch, 1 treble.
2nd row: 3 chain (for first treble), 2 treble,*1 chain, miss next stitch, 3 trebles; repeat from * to end.
Repeat the first and second rows to form your pattern.
Two Chain Block
Make a foundation chain using a multiple of 6 chain.
Foundation row: Work 1 treble into 4th chain from hook, 3 treble *2 chain, miss next 2 stitches, 4 treble; repeat from * to end
(NB – the six stitches of the repeat represent two blocks; one comprises two chains and a treble, the other comprises three trebles).
1st row: 5 chain (for first treble and two chains), miss two stitches *4 treble, 2 chain, miss next 2 stitches; rep from * to last stitch, 1 treble.
2nd row: 3 chain (for first treble), 3 treble,*2 chain, miss next stitch, 4 trebles; repeat from * to end.
Repeat the first and second rows to form your pattern.
This simple pattern will get the crocheter started with this variation of the craft, but the possibilities are limited only by the imagination. Beautiful doilies and table runners can be made for the home, as well as stunning shawls and wraps incorporating pictures and designs worked in filet blocks.
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