Use the filet crochet technique to create open spaces in your crochetwork. In filet crochet, the open spaces form the background, while filled blocks create the design. The spaces begin with a foundation chain, and then a double crochet stitch followed by a space of 2 chain stitches.
Crochet the foundation chain: Multiply the number of spaces in the row by 3.
When you read a filet-crochet chart, each space in the chart is actually three stitches. This means that each row of filet crochet has a multiple of 3 stitches plus 1 double crochet at the end to complete the last space or block.
Add 3 more chain (ch) stitches for the turning chain.
This turning chain is for the next row’s first double crochet (dc) stitch.
Start the first row of spaces: Chain (ch) 2 to create the top of the first space.
Remember that you already chained the turning chain for the first stitch in the preceding step.
Double crochet (dc) in the eighth chain from your hook.
This step makes the first space.
Chain 2.
Skip the next 2 chain stitches.
Double crochet in the next chain to make the second space.
Repeat the preceding step and this step across the row. You work your last double crochet in the last chain of the foundation chain, and you should have 5 spaces at the end of the row.
To work a second row of spaces, turn your work.
You’re ready to begin a new row.
Chain (ch) 3.
You use these stitches as the turning chain for your first double crochet (dc).
Chain 2 to make the first space.
Skip the next 2 chain stitches.
Double crochet in the next double crochet stitch to make the first space of the second row.
Repeat the preceding step and this step across the row. You should have 5 spaces at the end of the second row. Work each successive row the same way as the second row until you’re comfortable with this technique.
Filet crochet is a symmetrical design technique, and if the squares are skewed, then your whole piece will look out of kilter. If you find that you’ve made a mistake, tear out your work to that spot, and rework your design from there. You can’t hide mistakes in filet crochet.
