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Fisherman sweaters
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When we think about the classic fisherman sweater, we tend to think of a Captain Birdseye character, wearing one of those thick wool fisherman sweaters. It all sounds very romantic, as he sets off in his fishing boat to outwit nature and earn a living from the sea.
We can’t be blamed for thinking there is something a little romantic in the modern day life of a North Sea fisherman. Just imagine the chug, chug, chug of the engine, sun setting behind you, and screaming seagulls following behind as you head home to the harbour.
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Fisherman and the elements
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Fisherman have always had to fight the elements. Warm fisherman sweaters were made out of necessity, not as a fashion statement, like many items of clothing today.
If we go back in time, say one hundred years, life for a fisherman was very hard. In those days, it could be just as hard for the womenfolk of fishing communities, who would accompany the men on the fishing trips.
The typical day was hard and long. In addition to such essential tasks as baiting the lines and gutting the fish, time would be set aside for knitting the classic wool fisherman sweater. This might be either for members of the immediate family, or to sell to raise a few extra shillings.
Great pride was taken in this knitting, especially the ‘Sunday best’ sweaters. These were knitted in different colours, not always the traditional navy blue. It must be the tribal instinct in all humans which lead to each fishing community having its own identifiable pattern. This is based on a selection of motifs related to the sea: nets, ropes, ladders, herringbones, and so on.
This can be seen clearly in the patterns of the classic aran sweater, with its famous ropes and ladder patterns. In large fishing communities, special patterns could even allow for the differentiation of families within that community. Indeed, it is perhaps not too great an exaggeration to say that fisherman sweaters helped foster the community spirit.
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The future of the fisherman sweater
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Today more than ever before, we look to the past in search of old fashioned quality and value. That spirit is alive and well in the fisherman sweater. This type of classically designed wool sweater is still popular, not only with those who work in them, but also with those who appreciate the workmanship, history, and beauty of these remarkably tough wool sweaters.
Fishermans Crew Neck Sweater £35
Fishemans V Neck Jumper £35
We promise you guaranteed satisfaction with our no quibble return policy
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