Getting started
How to Read a Filet Crochet Chart
Interpret open and filled meshes using the explicit 4-dc convention, and check mesh counts and row direction.
Check the 4-dc Mesh Convention
US terms: a filled mesh spans four dc including its edge posts. Adjacent meshes share the edge post. After the initial dc, each filled mesh adds 3 dc, and each open mesh adds ch 2 + dc. This release supports only this convention.
Distinguish Open and Filled Meshes
A dark cell or printed A is a filled mesh; an empty cell is an open mesh. Transparent image areas become open mesh. Eraser opens a mesh instead of removing part of the rectangular fabric.
Convert a Clear Silhouette
Upload a high-contrast image. Threshold controls which opaque pixels are dark enough to fill, and Invert reverses that decision. Click Generate pattern after changing either setting. Transparent pixels stay open in both modes.
Count Meshes and Shared Posts
Check that filled plus open meshes equal width × height. A row of N meshes spans 3N + 1 stitch positions, including chains. Do not use that number as a foundation chain count; foundation and turning chains are not supplied.
Read Rows from the Bottom
Select a starting direction and follow the alternating arrows. The row guide lists open and filled mesh runs in working order. The sample is a digital chart and still needs physical swatch validation.
Print and Test a Small Section
Save the project, print its convention and legend, and check chart-page ranges. Work a small sample with a tested foundation and turning method before enlarging the design.
Filet crochet Questions
Is this pattern maker free?
Yes. Free includes local conversion and editing up to 160 × 160, plus PNG, CSV, JSON and basic PDF printing without an account. Maker Plus supports up to 400 × 400. Cloud saving requires sign-in; Free accounts can save 5 cloud projects.
Can I design a name for a filet crochet curtain?
Yes. Start a blank mesh chart and use Add lettering. The built-in alphabet supports A–Z, digits and selected punctuation, not Chinese characters or other scripts. Letters become editable filled meshes. Plan the curtain’s borders, foundation and construction separately.
Can I draw my own chart online?
Yes. Start a blank filet chart, use Pencil for filled meshes and Eraser for open meshes, then review the row directions. Print / Save PDF includes the mesh convention and legend. One mesh is not one individual stitch.
Can I make a chart and save a printable PDF?
Yes. Create or edit your chart, open Export settings, choose A4 or Letter, then use Print / Save PDF. Select Save as PDF in your browser’s print dialog. Check the saved file; canceling the dialog creates no PDF.
What does each square represent?
One open or filled mesh using the 4-dc convention stated above. Dark squares are filled; empty squares are open mesh, not missing fabric.
Is one square one stitch?
No. Meshes share edge posts and include several stitch positions. The key states the convention on every exported project.
Does the tool calculate a starting chain?
No. It displays mesh counts and stitch-position span only. Use a tested foundation and turning-chain method for your project.
Can I use a photo?
Yes, but strong silhouettes work best. Adjust the threshold, invert if needed, and edit the converted meshes.
Practice with a Working Digital Sample
Pine cottage · 32 × 32 · 4-dc mesh convention (US terms) · Open: ch 2 + dc · Filled: 3 dc after the shared edge post
Filet crochet Guides & Help
Prepare a Photo for a Filet Crochet Chart →
Reduce a subject to open and filled meshes, compare threshold settings and check the silhouette manually.
Check Filet Mesh Counts and Row Direction →
Distinguish mesh counts from stitch positions and use the printed convention to review a filet chart.
Add Names and Short Messages to Your Pattern →
Preview block lettering, fit it to your chart and preserve the result in any of the five makers.
Save, Back Up and Resume Your Patterns →
Save local or cloud projects, keep editable backups and resume row progress across all five makers.
Choose PDF, PNG or CSV and Check Print Settings →
Pick the right export, match paper settings and review page boundaries before making your project.