Have you ever come across a crochet pattern that follows a rule of six? While working on a pattern called Which Way Up Filet Pattern, I found it rather confusing to remember where each filet stitch should go. So, I came up with a solution!

It turns out that there are six simple rules to follow to achieve this beautiful pattern. Once you become familiar with them and they become part of your muscle memory, I promise you won't need to keep referring to the pattern instructions.

If you'd like to try it yourself, you can find the Which Way Up Filet Pattern in my pattern collection. Just to clarify, this is not my original design. I'm simply one of the many people who enjoy crocheting this lovely pattern.

Which Way Up Filet Pattern – Rule of 6

Rule No. 1

• Each corner space must have 2 double crochets, 2 chains, and another 2 double crochets consecutively.

This rule is non-negotiable. It must be followed; otherwise, you won't achieve the square shape in your pattern.

This rule begins in Round 1.

Rule No. 2

• Each group of 6 double crochets must have 2 chains on each side.

This rule begins in Round 2. Using the corner double crochet stitches, you can work up to 6 double crochets on each side of the square.

Round 2 determines how the stitches in the following round will align, allowing you to apply the next set of rules.

Rule No. 3

• The top of the first 2 double crochets must not have any stitches worked into them.

This rule begins in Round 3, where you'll use the group of 6 double crochets from the previous round as your point of reference.

But how do you achieve this while maintaining the correct stitch count and keeping your square in shape? The solution is to compensate with 2 chains.

Rule No. 4

• The first stitch of the next group of 6 double crochets must begin on the third stitch of the group of 6 from the previous round.

This rule begins in Round 3, immediately after Rule No. 3.

By remembering this rule, you can confidently continue crocheting your next group of 6 double crochet stitches.

Rule No. 5

• The last 2 stitches of each group of 6 double crochets must always block the gap created in the previous round.

This rule actually begins in Round 3, although Rule No. 1 already achieves this in that round. The effect becomes much more noticeable from Round 4 onwards.

Rule No. 6

• The gaps created throughout the rounds must align directly with the gaps formed by the left corner stitches.

This rule begins right at the start, in Round 1, but becomes more visible from Round 4 onwards.

And there you have it! The six rules of the Which Way Up Filet Pattern.

You'll notice that each rule plays an important part in creating the overall design. Without following all six, the pattern simply wouldn't come together in quite the same way.

Once you've practised a few rounds, these rules will become second nature, allowing you to enjoy crocheting without constantly checking the instructions.