Irish Aran Islands Cable Knitting and Textile History
Quixotic Fibers
Learn Irish Aran Islands Cabled Knitting, or improve your existing cabling technique.
All knitters and skill levels are welcome in this class!
Discover the rich knitting traditions of Ireland’s Aran Islands while learning the timeless art of cable knitting.
In this hands-on class, you’ll explore the history and symbolism behind classic Aran motifs, including braided cables, diamonds, honeycombs, and textured stitch patterns that have been passed down through generations.
Students will learn how to read cable charts, work cable crossings with confidence, and create beautifully textured fabrics inspired by traditional Irish knitwear.
Whether you are new to cables or looking to expand your knitting skills, this class will guide you through the techniques needed to knit authentic Aran-style projects with ease.
Join us as we celebrate the craftsmanship, heritage, and enduring beauty of Irish Aran knitting while creating heirloom-quality pieces you'll treasure for years to come!
The class includes:
- All cabled knitting instruction delivered in person by textile historian Dr. Jennifer Daley, who has conducted knitting research in Ireland and in the Aran Islands
- Cabling knitting tips, tricks, and techniques
- An overview of the special qualities of wool for cabling
- An Irish Aran knitted hat-blocking explanation
- The opportunity to learn how to cable with or without a cable needle, tool, or hook
- Learn about the textile history of the Aran Islands, including the meanings behind different Irish cable patterns and motifs
Students are required to purchase one Irish Aran Islands cabled knitting pattern of their choice at www.knittingjenny.com, which they will be knitting during the class.
Bring to class your Knitting Jenny pattern, yarn and needles, and we will knit our way through the class!
Beware, there is homework! Prior to class, the “homework” in preparation is to cast on and begin knitting your Knitting Jenny pattern ---- and knit your project until the cabling begins.
When we meet in person in class, we will all begin knitting our Irish cables together.
That way, during class we can focus on cabling techniques, rather than spending time casting on or ribbing.
If you cannot (or do not want to) complete the “homework” prior to class it is ok, not ideal, but ok!
We want to encourage students to start the pattern before class, so that our in-person meeting time is most productive. What you do is your choice, of course!
This class requires a minimum of 15 students.
Registration and Cancellation Policies
If you prefer to register over the telephone, please call Quixotic Fibers at 903-564-3740.
If the minimum number of students have not signed up 3 days before the class, we will unfortunately have to cancel the class. We usually require a minimum number of students only for classes where the instructor has to travel some distance. If we have to cancel a class, you will be notified 3 days in advance and will be given a full refund.
Cancellation: There is a $2 cancellation fee. At least 3 days' notice is required for cancellation without additional charges. Cancellations with 24-72 hours' notice are eligible for a 50% refund. Cancellations with less than 24 hours' notice are not refundable.