With the weather warming up I start to naturally gravitate towards crochet projects that are airy and open. It’s either amigurumi or coasters because larger projects like blankets and sweaters are too hot to handle, right? Last year I shared my shroom shrug that was made up of filet crochet squares and is great for summer evenings. I also shared a filet crochet crop top that’s perfect for festivals and outdoor events. So with these projects in mind I thought I would share a quick tutorial on how to crochet filet crochet.

What is Filet Crochet?

Filet crochet is a technique that involves creating lacy fabric made up of open mesh spaces and solid blocks. You may have seen this technique used in decorative items like tablecloths, curtains, doilies, etc. Garments and accessories work great with filet crochet especially if you’re looking for summer crochet fashion. 

But that’s not all you can do! 

With filet crochet, you have the flexibility to create intricate designs and patterns beyond decorative items mentioned above. Because of the open mesh technique you can use graphs and charts to design all kinds of images outside of traditional vintage styles. I’m thinking of pixel art and the nerdy things that could be made with filet crochet 

I’ve seen some really beautiful as well as funky designs that I’m inspired to delve into but today, let’s stick with a beginner friendly crochet sample!

This tutorial will guide you in making a 4” x 4” square of simple filet crochet blocks. Once you’ve got the hang of it you can experiment with different yarn types and hook sizes depending on the project you’re working on and your preferences. Thinner yarn and a smaller hook will result in a more delicate fabric, while thicker yarn and a larger hook will produce a more substantial piece.

Materials

• Worsted weight (4) cotton yarn

• Size 4.00mm crochet hook

Stitch Notes

Filet crochet uses multiples of 2 plus 3 additional chains for turning.

How to Filet Crochet

Step 1: Begin by making a slip knot and chaining the desired number of stitches for the width of your sample. Remember to add 3 additional chains for turning. In this tutorial I’m starting with 19 chains (16 + 3)

Step 2: Double crochet into the fourth chain from the hook to create the first solid block.

Step 3: Chain 1, skip the next chain, and double crochet into the following chain to create the first open mesh space.

Step 4: Repeat Step 3 across the row and double crochet into the last chain. You will have a double crochet in the last two chains.

Step 5: When you reach the end of the row, chain 3 and turn your work to begin the next row.

Step 6: Double crochet into the next stitch, chain 1, skip the chain space and double crochet into the next double crochet.

Step 7: Repeat the pattern across the row and end with a double crochet in the top of the turning chain.

Repeat the pattern of double crochets and chain spaces across each row until your sample reaches the desired height. In this sample, I worked a total of 7 rows to get 4 inches in height.

Once you've mastered the basics of filet crochet it’s time to play and get creative! Experiment with different designs, motifs, and color combinations to create unique and interesting projects to express your creativity and skill.

Looking for more crochet stitch tutorials? Check these out:

How To Crochet the Trellis Stitch

How to Crochet the Zigzag Stitch

How to Crochet the Long Wave Stitch

How to Crochet the Moss Stitch

How to Crochet the Shell Stitch

How to Crochet the Grit Stitch Variation

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This tutorial is for personal use only. The photos may not be reproduced, distributed or resold, translated, published, altered, shared or posted in any way over the internet or offline.

You may sell finished items made from patterns designed by me as long as it is handmade by you, not mass produced, giving the credit to Pops de Milk / Patricia Castillo as the designer. If you have any questions, you can email me at patricia@popsdemilk.com