Where do Aran Sweaters Come From

Aran Sweaters originated on the Aran Islands, about 9 miles off the west coast of Ireland. These islands are a barren, windswept landscape with little to no trees.  A special garment was required to provide shelter form the elements.  The Aran is a style of sweater, also known as a fisherman’s sweater.  These sweaters or jumpers (Irish: Geansaí Árann) were traditionally knit in the natural colour of sheep’s wool – an off-white or cream colour with cable patterns on the body and sleeves. Over the centuries the popularity of the Aran was such that farmers and labours found the sweater well suited to the harsh Irish weather. 

Originally the jumpers were knitted using unscoured wool that retained its natural oils (lanolin). This made the garments water-resistant and meant they remained wearable even when wet.

The Aran Sweater is water repellent, not feeling wet even after absorbing 25% its weight in water. The wool used in Aran jumpers is truly remarkable. Natures original breathable material. A wonderful insulator that keeps warm in winter and cool in summer.   

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wool sweater

The Making of an Irish Aran Sweater

The intricate stitch patterns make are challenging to knit. Handknitting an Aran sweater can take between 3 to 6 weeks to complete.

As popularity grew, more and more stitches were introduced.  Cable,  honeycomb, diamond lattices, plates, zig zag, ropes, and Celtic Knot design. For example, a typical sweater will have over 100,000 stitches. The three dimensional effect of the twisted stitches also increased the warmth of the clothing by creating air pockets.

As it evolved, the Irish sweater was manufactured with thicker yarn. The sweaters were knitted flat and seam is sewn together, and the stitching became looser. This decreased the amount of time it took to knit a sweater, thus increasing the Arans production.

The origin of the Aran sweater can be traced back to Guernsey, an island in the english channel off the coast of Normandy.  Guernsey relied heavily on fishing and is credited with the original sweater.

The cable patterns on Aran sweaters are said to have had practical functions. For example, the diamond pattern is believed to represent the small fields on the island, while the honeycomb pattern is thought to symbolize the hardworking bee. The zigzag pattern, known as the “tree of life” pattern, is said to represent the roots of an ancient Irish family tree.

The Aran sweater gained popularity beyond the Aran Islands in the 1950s and 1960s, when it was featured in fashion magazines and worn by celebrities such as Grace Kelly and Steve McQueen. Today, the Aran sweater is still a popular garment in Ireland and around the world, and it is often worn as a symbol of Irish heritage and craftsmanship.

The Aran Sweater has been passed down from generation to generation. It is the  ultimate symbol of Irish heritage.

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irish wool sweater