The Prayer Shawl Companion

What are prayer shawls? And why has knitting them become so popular?

Often people think that making prayer shawls comes from a specific religious tradition. Not so -- these lovingly knitted wraps are made for anyone and for nearly any occasion, from baptism to remembrance.

This collection features 38 beautiful and very different prayer shawl patterns that will inspire knitters of all skill levels with special designs for celebrations as well as times of solace. Projects range from simple to complex and include patterns donated by professional knitwear designers, including Kaffe Fassett and Nicky Epstein.

Authors Janet Bristow and Victoria A. Cole-Galo are at the heart of this popular movement -- their shawl ministry (www.shawlministry.com) is an all-inclusive online charity knitting group. It has become the place where many knitters join the movement that has always been a practical way to comfort those in need.

Like their Web site, this book includes many touching stories from knitters as well as inspirational words to knit by. It includes helpful information on choosing yarn, adding embellishments, blessing the shawl, and suggestions for wrapping and presenting a prayer shawl by yourself or with a group.

Here's a wonderful way to begin knitting a prayer shawl or to explore exciting new ideas when planning your next one.