The Aran Sweater takes its name from the set of islands where it originated many generations ago, off the West coast of Ireland. The Islanders who lived there were fishermen and farmers whose lives and livelihoods were deeply intertwined. Traditionally the jerseys were knitted from undyed, unwashed sheep wool, that still contained the lanolin making them waterproof which was very practical for the rugged conditions. The patterns incorporated in traditional Aran hand knitting have been handed down from mother to daughter for generations. These knitting designs symbolize the daily life of the islanders, their remote surroundings, and their beliefs. Each garment incorporates stitches representing age-old Irish traditions and culture.