This rosary prayer shawl pattern uses cables for the “Our Father” beads to anchor the airier “Hail Mary” beads made with RS rows of yarn over increases and left leaning decreases. It is worked on the long side of a rectangular shawl.

This pattern is worked using 4 rows of pattern repeating, and starts and ends with the sign of the cross and the short strand, with the 5 decades repeating from a single pattern block. An optional Braided Cable can be used for the Sign of the Cross, and this makes the pattern work in 8 rows repeating.

I’ve generally worked this pattern in a worsted weight (4) acrylic yarn, which is preferred in my prayer shawl group. I have used lighter yarn (DK-3) without issue, using a smaller needle. I recommend using a set of circular needles with a long cable (29”), sized larger than called for by the yarn (6mm, US 10 or larger- I’ve gone up to 10mm-US 15). It does not need to be blocked.

A special thanks to Veronica Bryant and sarahannd for their help and advice!

This pattern is offered at no cost for personal use and use by individuals and prayer shawl groups distributing the finished work at no cost.