This week we are focusing on Aran yarn
Aran yarn – that gorgeous warming yarn that has you immediately picturing cream traditional cable knits. Whilst they may be the ultimate Autumn/Winter wear, the vast choice of yarns and colourways available these days present many options for the modern look. Flecked, hand-painted, tweedy, glossy to name but a few on offer.
Just look at the Aran Boucle above (on the right) from Kremke Soul Wool. I knitted a sleeveless cowl neck sweater in this and have to say it is the most complimented item I have ever produced. The Magnolia yarn from Lang produces similar comments, take a look at this stunningly vibrant sweater below
Aran is usually knitted/crocheted using 5mm needles/hooks so you will find your project grows at a surprisingly quick speed. I can comfortably produce an Aran knitted sweater within 2 weeks whilst still working full time (no complicated cables though !!) The huge number of natural yarns available in this weight is immense, many are certified GOTS too. For those who prefer to machine-wash their items you will find just as many choices for acrylic based yarns. Below, running from left to right, is Caron Simply Soft Aran, Stylecraft Special Aran and James C Brett Aztec Aran, all can be machine washed successfully.
So, moving on to patterns .. whether you favour bold self-striping, tweedy flecks or seasonal solids there will be a pattern to suit your yarn choice. A few of our favourites are shown below (click on any of the images on this page to find more information on each yarn & pattern).
