Known as the geansai in Irish, the stylish Aran sweater is familiar worldwide. What sets it apart is the intricate patterns woven into the wool with unique skill. With approximately 100,000 stitches, each piece is a work of art.
The romance of the Aran sweater
Over the years, the Aran sweater has become the subject of many romanticised myths; however, the traditional stitches and patterning used to create a fishermans sweater mens hold a profound cultural significance.
Some believe the patterns are influenced by Celtic art, while others suggest each family developed a unique pattern to distinguish its menfolk. This rich tapestry of cultural history makes the Aran sweater truly fascinating.
Aran sweater patterning
Most Aran patterns have a symbolic meaning relating to good fortune. The most commonly used stitch in the traditional Aran sweater is the cable stitch. This unique combination of knit and purl produces the effect of twisted knitting ropes, reminiscent of the ropes used by fishermen.
Most Aran sweaters, which are available from stores such as https://shoparan.com/mens-aran-sweaters, feature some version of a cable. This adds to the sweater’s aesthetic appeal and connects to the heritage of the rugged Aran Islands.
Cable stitch is often partnered with a zigzag stitch, which reflects the steep paths on the island and the ups and downs of a rural lifestyle.
The diamond stitch is said to have various meanings. Sometimes, it is said to represent the patchwork of fields on the islands and can be filled with moss stitch, which means abundance, growth, and the promise of a good harvest. Alternatively, it is said to resemble the mesh of traditional fishing nets alive with fish.
The honeycomb is traditionally a lucky stitch, representing the hard work of the bee and its sweet rewards. The blackberry stitch is another stitch representing nature. Like the ladder, plaited braid, and the Tree of Life stitches, it has a religious significance, symbolising the strands of everyone’s path through life.
