Do Irish wear Aran sweaters?
The traditional Irish Aran sweater was fashioned in this environment and has since been passed down through generations to be considered the ultimate Irish Clan Heritage symbol. It is still very popular today in many knitting circles and is also worn by those who appreciate its origin and symbolism.
What is special about Aran sweaters?
These sweaters were traditionally knit in the natural colour of sheep’s wool, an off-white or cream colour. The natural sheep’s wool retained their oils making these sweaters waterproof and perfect for the Irish weather.
What style of knitting is Irish Aran?
Aran knitting patterns are heavily textured knitting patterns which are named after the Aran Islands, which are located off the west coast of Ireland from County Galway and County Clare. The patterns are knitted into socks, hats, vests, scarves, mittens, afghans, pillow covers, and, most commonly, sweaters.
Are Aran jumpers itchy?
If you are wondering whether your Aran Sweater will itch, you can rest assured that a real Aran Sweater, made from the highest quality merino wool, will not be itchy against your skin.
Why are Aran sweaters so expensive?
They are very durable. There are Aran patterns so intricate that can only be done by hand. Because of such factors, hand-knitted Arans are expensive. Hand loomed Aran sweaters have a looser weave than the hand knit ones.
What is a gansey in Ireland?
The jersey to which he referred was known in western Ireland as a gansey, from the Irish word ‘geansai’, meaning Guernsey. Here lies the strongest evidence that Irish wool sweaters originated from the thick, water-resistent knitwear already popular among fishermen from Britain and the Channel Islands.
Do Aran sweaters shrink?
Tips for Hand-Washing Aran Sweaters Use tepid water, and never expose the sweater to direct heat as it promotes shrinkage. Never wring or stretch wool when wet. While wool is elastic, it can be pulled out of shape permanently while being washed.
What colour is Aran?
A traditional Aran Jumper usually is off-white in colour, with cable patterns on the body and sleeves.
What does Aran mean in knitting?
Aran yarns are also called “medium yarns”. They are thicker than the DK yarns and are often stronger and more rigid. If you need a heavier yarn that looks kind of delicate, you could use Aran. Sometimes this term gets mixed up with the original Aran sweaters.
Is Aran yarn soft?
A 100% acrylic, aran weight yarn designed specially for babies and toddlers, Sirdar Supersoft Aran is best described by its name: super soft!
How good are Aran sweaters?
They tend to be knit tightly and from heavier yarn, so the patterns are very well defined. There are some Aran stitches too intricate for any machine and thus only seen in hand knit sweaters. Hand knit Aran sweaters are long lasting, keeping their shape and stitch definition for many years.
Are Irish clan sweaters real?
Whatever the marketing message, Irish wool sweaters are beautiful and distinctive. The idea that Aran sweaters (also known as Irish wool sweaters) contain special stitches to identify the wearer’s family or clan is pure fiction.
What is the best Aran knit for a baby?
Baby Handknit Aran Crew Sweater- adding an adorable finishing touch on this baby Irish sweater is the cuddly sheep motifs and a three cut brown buttons on the side by the collar. Baby Shepley Hand Knit Cardigan- this stunning Aran knit cardigan features the classic Aran diamond and cable stitches and a lovely sheep detail.
Can I Knit a clan Aran sweater for my family?
Now you can enjoy the deep satisfaction of knitting your very own Clan Sweater for all the family with our ClanAran knitting patterns. Each knitting pattern comes in a word document complete with the meaning of the Aran stitches, stitch glossary and instructions.
What is an Aran sweater?
Aran Knitting: The Aran sweater takes its name from the Aran Islands off the west coast of Ireland. A traditional Aran Sweater usually is off-white in color similar to a sheep’s wool and is made from 100% wool.
What kind of wool is used to make Aran?
Baby Aran Sweater Hand Knit- this lovely Aran sweater is handmade from 100% pure merino wool and is knitted together in the traditional Aran stitch, a beloved Irish style. A sweet three-button shoulder detail allows for easy dressing and compliment with style.