Are Aran sweaters worth it?

Hand knit Aran sweaters are knit usually by women at home as a part-time enterprise, are the best quality and the most expensive. They tend to be knit tightly and from heavier yarn, so the patterns are very well defined. Hand knit Aran sweaters are long lasting, keeping their shape and stitch definition for many years.

Is Aran wool Irish?

Aran Sweaters are traditionally made from pure merino wool in Ireland, and are usually hand knitted.

What is special about Aran wool?

Unscoured wool retains its natural lanolin making it water resistant. Perfect for braving the harsh conditions of the unforgiving Atlantic Ocean and a far cry from the soft merino and pure wool yarns that are used today.

What does jumper mean in Ireland?

In Ireland a jumper is a pinafore and a sweater is a jumper. A buttoned sweater is a cardigan, and overalls are dungarees.

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 the best Aran wool?

Merino Wool
Merino Wool – Merino wool comes from the Merino Sheep in New Zealand and is one of the world’s toughest breeds of sheep. There are many benefits of merino wool that has seen it become the most popular yarn used in Aran sweaters.

What is the softest Irish wool?

Due to its soft texture, warmth, durability, price/value and breath-ability Merino Wool is the best choice for Aran Sweaters.

What do the stitches used in Aran knitting represent?

The most commonly seen Aran stitch is the cable, of which there are many variations. These are said to symbolise fishermen’s ropes. Plaited or braided stitches said to represent the interweaving strands of life. Diamonds to represent the shape of the fishing mesh, and wealth and success.