In the vast world of tweed yarn, Arranmore Light is the gold standard. Today's post explores why, and what kinds of knitting it is best suited for.
The Ingredients
What's not to love with luxury ingredients like cashmere, silk, and Merino in a nubbly blend? This combination is undoubtedly more than the sum of its parts, Merino and cashmere are both known for their softness. The merino provides loft and breathability, while cashmere gives the blend a slight halo. Silk fiber lends strength and sheen to the blend. There's also a bit of silk noil for a touch of Donegal homespun. The resulting yarn is actually soft enough to wear against the skin, and somehow resists pilling. My "Cloisters" sweater is living through its second winter now, with plenty of wear and tear (we have a new puppy) and yet nary a pill to deal with!
Stitch Definition
Because of their round cross-section, three-ply yarns are typically best for stitch definition. However, Arranmore Light also has excellent stitch definition for all kinds of cables and traveling stitches. As you can see here, the cables show up even on a darker colorway as in this swatch of Arranmore Light in Brannagh.
In addition to cabling, Arranmore Light works equally well for lace patterns. The photo below shows it worked up in the Shetland lace pattern "Spider's Web", worked up in the "River Esque" colorway.
Favorite Patterns
"The Cloisters" has become my go-to sweater to throw on over jeans or a pair of black trousers, and be out the door in five minutes -- sometimes ten when I forget earrings.
And the Fibre Co has several classic designs which also showcase the best qualities of the yarns they offer. "Cherry Bark" and "Rathbone" are two of my favorites.
Summing Up
A quote from The Knitter captures the essence of Arranmore Light --
“Wrap yourself up in heathered tweed luxury with this gorgeous DK from The Fibre Co. With a colour palette evocative of Irish landscapes, Arranmore Light features beautiful shades full of tweedy neps that add depth and interest to the fabric. The sumptuous blend of fibres blooms beautifully with washing, and has fantastic softness and drape.” – The Knitter, Issue 115
Yours in Knitting,
