How to Figure the Starting Chain For Filet Work
From your Crochet Guide

When you know how to do this, you can translate many charts into filet crochet, whether the foundation chain was given in the instructions or not.

Difficulty Level: Easy    Time Required: 5 minutes

1. Count the number of squares across the first row that you will be working on the chart.
2. Multiply this number times 3.
3. Add 1 to the total you came up with in step 2.
4. The total that you now have is your starting chain.
5. Now add number of chains necessary for starting the first row: if the first square on the chart is a solid mesh, then chain 3 (counts as first double crochet of first mesh).
6. If the first square on the chart is an open mesh, then chain 5 (counts as first double crochet and the chain-2 of first open mesh).
7. Continue to follow chart. See first link below for help in crocheting the first mesh, then the rest of the first row.
   

Tips:

1. Charts are usually begun at the bottom of the chart. Work first row right to left, second row left to right, then continue alternating row direction in this manner as you work your way up the chart.
2. Many edgings are worked sideways (the short rows) so that the length can be decided as you go along. In that case, count the squares on one side edge of that chart to figure your starting chain.
3. The above instructions result in a starting chain for working a chart in 4 dc mesh. See the Basics link below for an explanation of 4 dc mesh versus 3 dc mesh.

Related Information:

• How to Do First Row on a Chart in Filet Crochet
• Basics in How to Do Filet Crochet
• Diagrams Show How to Increase in Filet Crochet
• Free Filet Crochet Charts on This Site
  

More How To's from your Guide to Crochet