Aran jumper

The Aran Sweater was popular in the fishing villages and island on and off the West coast of Ireland. Most of the people in these towns made their living from farming and fishing - with the harsh climate creating a need for warm protective and practical clothing.

Originally sweaters were knitted using un-scoured wool that retained its natural greases making the garments more waterproof. It was wives of the fisherman who, in the main, knitted the sweaters.

The aran sweater can be knitted in many distinctive patterns. Some patterns have a traditional interpretation often of religious significance. The honeycomb is a symbol of the hard working bee. The cable, an integral part of the fisherman's daily life, is said to be a wish for safety and good luck when fishing. The diamond is a wish of success wealth and treasure. The basket stitch represents the fisherman's basket, a hope for a plentiful catch.

The term "Aran" must come from the Aran Islands off the West Coast of Ireland.