In-person course
in Oxford Maker & location details

Learn the principles of Aran knitting

Description

Aran knitting is a rich and intricate tradition that has its roots in the Aran Islands off the coast of Ireland. The patterns typically feature a variety of textured stitches, often symbolising elements of nature, such as the cable patterns representing ropes (for fishermen), or tree motifs representing family or heritage. Despite the complexity of many finished Aran designs, the foundation is built on the basic knit and purl stitches. Key Principles of Aran Knitting: Knit and Purl Basics: All Aran patterns are built on variations of the basic knit and purl stitches. These stitches form the foundation for more intricate designs like cables, diamonds, and other textured motifs. Texture Over Colour: Aran knitting focuses on creating textures rather than using multiple colours. The beauty of these sweaters comes from the interplay of knits and purls, along with cables and lace patterns. Cable Stitching: One of the most iconic elements of Aran knitting. Cables involve knitting stitches from the past or future to create intricate twists and braids. They are usually worked with a cable needle to temporarily hold stitches while others are worked, then return the held stitches to form the twist. Symmetry and Repetition: Many Aran patterns follow symmetrical motifs. Repeated patterns across a garment create a sense of unity and balance, often used in different areas of a sweater (like the front, sleeves, and back). Four Basic Aran Stitch Patterns: Cables: Cables are the signature pattern of Aran knitting. The classic cable pattern involves crossing two or more groups of stitches over each other to form a twisted rope-like effect. Common cable types include 2-stitch cables, 4-stitch cables, and even larger cables. Example: A simple 2-stitch cable could be worked by holding the first two stitches on a cable needle at the front of the work, knitting the next two stitches, and then knitting the two held stitches. Basketweave: Basketweave is a block pattern created by alternating groups of knit and purl stitches. It often looks like a woven basket. Example: Work a 4-stitch basketweave by knitting 4 stitches, purling 4 stitches, and then alternating that sequence across the row. The following rows would mirror this pattern. Diamond Motif: The diamond motif is formed with a combination of cables and knit/purl stitches to create a diamond-shaped texture. This motif is often used on the body of a sweater or in specific panel sections. Example: A simple diamond pattern might involve creating a central 4-stitch cable and surrounding it with purls and knits arranged to form a diamond shape. Ribbing: Ribbing is used both for texture and elasticity in the cuffs, hem, and neckbands of Aran garments. The most common ribbing patterns are k1, p1 (single rib) or k2, p2 (double rib). Example: For a k2, p2 rib, you alternate between knitting two stitches and purling two stitches across each row. Combining the Patterns: Once you have mastered the basic stitch patterns, you can begin combining them to create your own Aran sweater design. Many Aran sweaters feature a central panel with a large, complex cable design, flanked by smaller motifs like basketweave or diamond patterns. You might use ribbing at the edges and to separate larger designs. The key is to plan how the patterns flow together across the piece, maintaining balance and symmetry. Aran knitting is all about creativity within structure, using these basic patterns and combining them in endless ways. The beauty lies in the texture and how each pattern complements the others, creating a garment that is both beautiful and functional.

What's included in the price?

A ball of Aran yarn, the knitting needles and set of cable needles required. Morning pastries and tea and coffee on arrival, and further refreshment if required through the morning.