What do the different stitches of the Aran sweater mean?

Every stitch has its own significance and meaning. First worn by fishermen for heat and protection against the wild Atlantic, the meanings of the stitches were influenced by the daily lives of the Aran Island fisherfolk and their surrounding landscape.

Below are the meanings of some of the most popular stitches found in your Aran sweater.

The links below each will show all available items we have in that stitch style.

• Cable stitch: A representation of the fisherman’s ropes symbolizing wishes for a plentiful catch at sea.

https://www.theirishstore.com/catalogsearch/result/?q=Cable+stitch

• Zigzag stitch: Symbolizes the twisting island cliff paths leading to the sea and the ups and downs of married life!

https://www.theirishstore.com/catalogsearch/result/?q=zigzag+stitch

• Diamond Stitch: A representation of the patchwork of farmers' fields, symbolizing wishes for wealth and success.

https://www.theirishstore.com/catalogsearch/result/?q=Diamond+stitch

• Trellis stitch: Representing the stone-walled fields and said to provide protection.

https://www.theirishstore.com/catalogsearch/result/?q=Trellis+stitch

• Blackberry Stitch: Symbolizing the fruits of nature and its beauty.

https://www.theirishstore.com/catalogsearch/result/?q=Blackberry+stitch

• Moss stitch: Representing the Carrigeen moss seaweed found on the islands’ Atlantic coast and used as a fertilizer for the farmer's fields. Symbolizing hopes for a bountiful harvest.

https://www.theirishstore.com/catalogsearch/result/?q=Moss+stitch

• Honeycomb stitch: A tribute to the hardworking honeybee, and symbol of luck and good fortune. 

https://www.theirishstore.com/catalogsearch/result/?q=Honeycomb+stitch