Ready for a New Challenge? Try Aran Knitting

Aran knitting

Aran knitting got its start in a group of three islands just off the west coast of Ireland named appropriately enough, the Aran Islands.

This style of knitting originates with undyed cream sheep's wool and features complex patterns containing cables, twists and bobbles. Today, Aran style knitting is common but no longer confined to using undyed cream sheep's wool. By using cables, twists, and bobbles in unlimited arrays of colors, you create an enormous range of interesting and unique patterns.

Three main elements exist to create this knitting technique.

Element #1: Cables make up the first group of elements

Knitting cables cross one group of stitches over or under another group. To use this technique you need to use cable needles. A cable needle holds the stitches on either the right or wrong side of the knitted fabric as you form the cables.

Element #2: Do the Twist

Another common element of Aran knitting is the twist. Twists work the same way as cables but cable needles are not necessary. Many knitters find working twists very easy to do especially when knitting in the round.

Element #3: Bobble knitting

Knitting bobbles create an interesting texture to your knitting, and is the third element to Aran knitting. There are several ways to create bobbles. So easily find the technique that you like best. Then use it to create and add them to your knitting project.

With these three Aran knitting techniques, you can come up with an infinite number of ideas to add spark and interest to any knitting pattern that you want. Don't be timid. Be adventurous and branch out with your knitting by trying this knitting technique.