An Púcán

The original Aran sweater

An Pucan, a quaint craft shop located on the idyllic Inis Mór island in Ireland, is a haven for those in search of authentic, hand-knit Aran sweaters. Founded in 1977 by the visionary Frances Beatty, the shop exudes the nostalgia of a simpler time, while still remaining a relevant and thriving hub for Irish craftsmanship.

Crafted by Ms. Beatty’s network of knitters in Kilmurvey, each Aran sweater is made using Donegal wool. The fibers contain natural oils, a distinguishing characteristic that sets them apart from their imitations. The sweaters are a testament to the enduring art of knitting, one that has been passed down through generations of skilled craftspeople.

Despite the beauty and cultural significance of these sweaters, the craft of hand-knitting them is slowly fading away. Mary-Frances, Frances Beatty’s daughter, notes that the youngest knitter on her team is already 62, underscoring the need to preserve this tradition for future generations.