Christmas sweaters are popular, but usually full of colour and made from synthetic fibres. I always dreamt of owning a sweater made from Irish grown yarn, full of beautiful Aran textures and able to stand the test of time.
When 2025 drew to a close, the perfect opportunity presented itself: Not only did we discussed this topic in our Galway Art-C Artisan crafter group, but Katarina Hruskova of Galway business Woolstore decided to apply for government funding to build Ireland’s first wool mill which will allow flexible batches of homegrown wool to be washed and carded, instead of having to be shipped abroad as it is the case currently. This funding needs to be matched by independent donations. I decided to at last design a truly Irish Christmas Aran sweater, by modifying traditional stitch textures for a contemporary look, and by making changes to some techniques for ease of knitting.
The “Aran Xmas Sweater” had its’ first outing at the Galway Wool Meitheal 2026, where visitors were able to pick up a free pattern as part of our promotion. The sweater is now for sale, with 100% of the sale to contribute to our own Irish Mini Mill.
If you are interested in purchasing the Aran Xmas Sweater, please contact me. You will greatly contribute to the future of Irish wool, and your donation will be thoroughly appreciated – never to mention your purchase of a lovely Christmas present for a dear one, or simply to treat yourself. If you would like to purchase a pattern to knit your own sweater, please contact me or check into my Ravelry account. The sweater is currently being test-knitted and patterns in S, M and L will be available from October.
Anja Sammon 