Filet crochet: from shawl to blanket
I have a question about whether the Zirka shawl pattern can be adapted into a rectangular shape, such as a scarf or a blanket.
The Zirka shawl is a triangular piece made using the filet crochet technique, starting from the bottom corner and working upwards with increases placed at the sides. There are a few possible methods to transform a triangular piece into a rectangular or square shape in filet crochet:
You can begin from a corner and crochet a triangle with increases on both sides until you reach the desired width. Then, start decreasing until you achieve a square shape (as shown in the left picture).
Another approach is to work in the round, starting from the center and crocheting outwards until you reach the desired size (as seen in the center picture).
The simplest method is to work in rows (as shown in the right picture).
FROM CORNER
The first option is fantastic for creating triangular filet shawls and offers a straightforward and quick start. It allows you to stop when you've reached the desired size or run out of yarn.
However, keep in mind that your piece may not be perfectly triangular due to variations in yarn, tension, stitch height, and chain length. Achieving a perfectly square piece can be challenging.
In the case of shawls, slight imperfections can be corrected through blocking. However, when creating square-shaped blankets, imperfections become more visible. Instead of a square, you may end up with something resembling a diamond, which can only be minimally improved through blocking.
FROM CENTER OUT
The second option, working in the round, faces similar issues, with the piece tightening at the center and having overly flared edges.
This method can work well for smaller motifs, but as your motif size increases, so does the potential for deformation.
SIDEWAYS
The last option, working in rows, is the simplest way to create large and accurate pieces using the filet crochet technique. It requires less complex blocking, typically involving stretching the piece in width or length to achieve a square shape.
I recommend using the last option as it provides a more predictable result. To help with your Zirka blanket in rows, I've provided a filet chart that you may find useful in your crochet journey.
If you're new to the filet technique, you can refer to the Zirka shawl pattern instructions and chart as a guide to understand how to use the simplified filet chart provided above.
My filet crochet shawls - each with its own character!
Zirka: A timeless star motif, bold and eye-catching. Always a perfect gift for the holiday season! I’ve made two... and somehow none stayed with me.
Syringa: Features two distinct stitch patterns: four-petal flowers (make a wish! 🌞) and sunbeams shining through. My dearest filet design.
Ice Bubble: When filet crochet meets bobbles for added dimension. The cutest one!
Limeade: Combines simple filet with textured edging stitches. The edging reshapes the rounded stitch pattern and turns it into floral motifs.
