BEYOND THE BASICS
MORE IDEAS
Keep learning with some of these crochet techniques
FILET CROCHET
Originally known as square crochet
(because it is, fundamentally, made up
of squares), filet crochet is a brilliantly
decorative technique that combines open
mesh and solid blocks to create shapes and
images in fabric. The term ‘filet’ comes from
the French word for ‘mesh’. Usually worked
in one solid colour (often white), the stitches
aim to mimic lace and produce dainty
crochet fabric that’s ideal for home
furnishings such as doilies, edgings, table
runners and curtains. Although it may
appear complex, filet crochet is fairly
straightforward: it uses only chains and
treble crochet stitches. It’s best to use
smooth, solid yarns for this technique, to
make sure stitches are crisp and clear. This
way of working gives crocheters the freedom
to create all kinds of words, shapes and
pictures in a relatively neat, simple and
decorative way.
BEADED
CROCHET
Beaded crochet involves stringing beads
onto your yarn before it is worked, and then
forming the stitches around the beads one by
one. The earliest examples of beaded crochet
are miser’s purses from the 19th century.
Beads can be worked closely to create a solid
beaded fabric, arranged in a pattern, or they
can be distributed more sparsely to add
interest to a design. There are many different
methods of beaded crochet, including
traditional or tapestry, chain stitch, and
tubular, which involves working in the round
to create beaded cords for jewellery. With
such a wide variety of different methods to
try, the possibilities for getting creative with
beads are endless. Use them to highlight
delicate crochet edging or to embellish
accessories, motifs and decorations.