Aran Sweater.
Fisherman Sweater.
Irish Knitwear.
However you call it, the Aran Sweater is a timeless piece of winter garment. Its origin makes it a special kind of clothing. Its patterns and styles have a historic background to it and nowadays, the demand for Aran Sweaters continue to grow.
So how do you know which style to purchase?
Where can you buy Aran Sweaters?
What do you look for in an Aran Sweater?
Irish Clan Heritage
The Aran Sweater got its name from the place where it originated from – the Aran Islands. This place is at the mouth of the Galway Bay in the Atlantic Sea. Most of the population here are fishermen and farmers.
Back then, the Aran Sweater is linked to Irish clans and their identities. The combination of stitching seen on the sweater is a representation of the knitters and their families. It imparts certain information for those who know how to interpret them.
There is a compilation of these historic patterns which can be found in the Sweater Market in the Aran Islands.
The Aran Sweater Today
Over the years, the Aran Sweater continued to fascinate many people.
Its craftsmanship would make an owner very proud.
Aside from its classic look and timeless design, the demand for Aran Sweaters grows because of one inevitable reason.
There is now a lack of skilled knitters.
Thus, authentic hand-knitted Arans are beginning to become rare and valuable.
Buying Aran Sweaters
Before purchasing Arans, there are a few considerations. It is worth knowing that Aran Sweaters are not created the same. The distinguishing factor is the process of how they were made.
Hand Knitted Aran
Hand-knitted Arans are made by women at home. They started as a hobby and evolved as a family business over the years. Yet, the quality is maintained at a level of excellence. The stitching in these sweaters are tight and made from heavier yarn. These sweaters keep their shape and stitch definition for a long time. 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
Hand loomed Aran sweaters have a looser weave than the hand knit ones. The stitching is still fairly consistent, considering that hand-looming allows more complicated patterns. Stitch adjustments can be made between rows by the loom operator. Hand loomed Arans can be similar in appearance with the hand knit variety but upon closer look, they are thinner with less depth in the pattern. Price-wise, they are in the mid-range.
Machine Knit Aran
One thing to note when buying machine knit Arans is that they loosen with wear. When purchasing these kinds, make sure to buy a size lower. Machine knit Arans have a flatter appearance and made from fair quality wool or blended yarns. Generally, they are the least expensive option.
Any of these three kinds of Aran sweaters will be a great addition to your wardrobe. There are a number of choices for a man who is going for that classic look in the winter season. You will never go wrong with timeless style.
Aran Sweaters are available at aransweatermarket.com. They offer quality Aran Sweaters at best prices.
