Shire Aran

Shire Aran Pullover Pattern by Glenna C

What is Being Made

The Shire Aran is a pullover sweater pattern available in both women's and men's sizing. This downloadable knitting pattern offers six size options for each gender, ranging from small to 3XL. The women's pullover measures between 33.5 to 56.5 inches at the chest depending on size, while the men's pullover ranges from 36 to 56 inches at the chest. Both versions are designed with moderate positive ease, intended to be worn with 2-4 inches of positive ease for women and 3-5 inches for men, allowing for comfortable layering and personal preference.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

The Shire Aran employs classic Aran knitting techniques, incorporating decorative cable charts as a primary design element. The pattern utilizes double moss stitch for the women's version and cable charts for the men's version, creating textured interest throughout the garment. These traditional techniques are characteristic of Aran sweater construction, which emphasizes dimensional stitch patterns and cables.

Stitches Used

The pattern features double moss stitch as a foundational stitch for the women's pullover, providing a classic textured background. The men's version incorporates cable charts, which are worked over the specified gauge to create the signature raised cable patterns typical of Aran-style sweaters. These stitch patterns work together to create visual depth and traditional aesthetic appeal.

Yarn and Needle Requirements

The Shire Aran is designed to be worked with Harrisville Designs Highland 100% Virgin Wool, which provides 200 yards per skein. Yardage requirements vary by size and gender: women's pullover requires between 1300 to 2200 yards depending on size, while the men's pullover requires between 1400 to 2400 yards. The pattern recommends purchasing extra yardage if uncertain of requirements.

Needles required include 4.5mm/US #7 needles for the main fabric, worked at a gauge of 18 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches in double moss stitch for the women's version, or 24 stitches and 32 rows over 4 inches over cable charts for the men's version. Additionally, 3.75mm/US #5 needles (two sizes smaller than the main needles) are needed for ribbing or other finishing elements. Knitters should always swatch to obtain proper gauge before beginning the project.

Pattern Details

• Designer: Glenna C
• Craft: Knitting
• Difficulty Level: Intermediate
• Format: Downloadable PDF
• Women's Sizes: S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL
• Men's Sizes: S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL
• Fiber Content: 100% Virgin Wool