Oak Bay Knittery

The Aran design sweaters originated in the Aran Islands off the West Coast of Ireland. Fishing was the primary occupation of the islanders. As the majority of these men were unable to swim, a great number drowned and their bodies were unidentifiable by their bereaved family. A plan was derived for each family to design a particular pattern for the woolen sweaters which were worn by all the men, so that when the bodies were washed ashore, each victim could be recognized by pattern of his sweater. This tradition continues to this day.

Our warm and comfortable sweaters are hand knit by experienced Irish/Canadian knitters using 2 ply Briggs and Little wool spun at our local mill in Harvey, New Brunswick. The fisherman style sweaters are some of the original Aran Island design. Each item is hand made precisely to your specifications. We strive to supply to our customers, a product of the highest quality.