Filet crochet instructions
Many cross stitch or other counted pattern can be used for filet crochet.
See section : Monochrome patterns
The size of the finished project depends a lot on the crochet hook, the thread you will use, and your own crochet/tension style. My best advice is to try out a 10 x 10 square piece and measure it, then times it by the size of the chart. This will give you an estimate of the finished size, and do remember that a filet crochet block is more rectangular than square.
A little word of advice. When making a large item, like for example a table cloth, make sure you buy a brand of yarn that is easily available. I have sadly learned that lesson the hard way by one time starting on a table runner, with cotton yarn bought from a bargain bin. Sure enough I needed more and the shop was completely out! It was a leftover sale, and would not be available again, that project was never finished.......
Getting started
Filet crochet is quite simply a mesh( filet ) made in crochet, consisting of open and filled blocks.
For basic filet crochet all you need to know is how to make a ch (chain), and dc ( double crochet )
Each open space is made of 1dc, 2ch, 1dc
Each filled space is made of 4 dc
Here is the link to a wonderful post with all the photos and instructions needed for getting started: https://www.craftsy.com/post/how-to-filet-crochet/
How to find the count for the starting chain of a filet crochet chart.
1. Count the numbers of squares on the row you wish to start from.
2. Multiply by 3, add 1
3. If the starting square is an open square, chain 5 ( counts as the first double crochet, and the chain of the first open mesh )
4. If the first square is a solid mesh , chain 3 ( counts as the first double crochet )
For example the little MOM bookmark has 9 squares on the smallest side.
Multiply by 3, add 1. That would mean the starting chain would be 28 ch ( chain ).
Small bookmark made with a size 0.60 hook, and thread thin mercerized cotton.
Free Download for two bookmarks : Filet bookmarks
A small collection of 20 bookmarks for filet crochet ( or cross stitch)
Easy and quick to crochet, or stitch. You can make them in any color, or any yarn type, add a charm, a fringe.
A simple, but thoughtful handmade gift.
Free download: Bookmark collection
Filet crochet tablecloth made from the pattern 'The boar hunt'