The Aran Sweater?

[Edward]

Jack.... if ever you'd stood on the Irish Coast of an Autumn morning and felt the wind whip in off the Atlantic or the Irish Sea (depending which side of the island you're on), you'd know exactly why they are made that heavy.

The one I got was a kind of slate blue. I wanted something that wouldn't show stains as easily. The vendor was from milwaukee but the sweaters were imported from Ireland.

Can't for the life of me remember which plant that was traditionally from, but yeah that's an authentic colour AFAIK.

I might see if I have any Irish roots and get one from that name.

See if any branch of your family traces back to Ned - or Jack Duggan, eh?

 

[Charlie Noodles]

See if any branch of your family traces back to Ned - or Jack Duggan, eh?

I went to Primary School with a Kelly related to Ned. Not sure how specifically.

 

[H.Johnson]

I salute you, sir. By purchasing in the traditional way you are assured of an authentic garment and are keeping alive a traditional indigenous craft. A 'thing of beauty and a joy for ever', I hope.

More to the point, I assume it will now be part of a fond memory of a truly beautiful part of the world that will stay with you for a long time. Longer, perhaps, than a trip to the local mall...

I purchased my Aran sweater on the island of Aran about ten years ago. I was directed to a home where the lady of the house made bespoke sweaters. She took my measurements and mailed it to me a month later. It is so warm, I cannot wear it often as Philadelphia does not get cold enough.

Just a thought... perhaps someone in the lounge has a Celtic clothing contact. If there is enough interest, a group of could get together and put together a large enough order to make it worth while to find a small group on Aran to make authentic sweaters and ship them. With international shippers today, one large impediment that formerly existed no longer does. Although I already own an Aran, I would purchase one for my wife. Best, Sam

 

[ukali1066]

My Grandma made one for my dad when he was in the army....it had arms that would have been too short for King Kong.....I think he only wore it when he had flu