The Aran jumper

© F H Powell 2016

It’s quite easy to spot an Aran jumper, less easy to define what makes an Aran unique. The intricate stitches and cables can be used in many combinations that make an Aran jumper recognisable, but at the same time exclusive in it’s design. Also by design they are fashioned to provide protection from adverse weather.

The need for maximum warmth and protection from wind and rain stems from the origin of the Aran design. Inishmore, Inisheer and Inishmaan are the three islands which make up the Aran Islands, at the mouth of Galway Bay, on the west coast of Ireland. Traditionally an Aran Sweater is made from 100% wool and usually is off-white or cream in colour similar to undyed sheep’s wool.