A close-fitted, seamless fisherman's sweater knitted in the round on five needles from tightly spun worsted wool, traditionally in a single dark color, named for the Channel Island of Guernsey where the style and its knitting industry can be traced to at least the late fifteenth century. Ganseys are worked at a very tight gauge for wind and water resistance, feature an underarm gusset for freedom of movement, and carry textured knit-and-purl stitch patterns, rather than colorwork, concentrated on the yoke and upper body, historically varying enough by fishing community that a sweater could identify a wearer's home port.
Facts
OriginTraceable to Guernsey's knitting trade from at least the late fifteenth century, adopted across British and North Sea fishing communities, each often developing its own yoke patterning. 1 Distinguishing Technique or ResultKnitted seamlessly in the round at a very tight gauge in a single color, with textured knit-and-purl stitch patterns, rather than color changes, concentrated on the yoke. 1 Connections
Associated With
Tools Used
Knitting Needle is used in Gansey (Guernsey) Sweater Pattern.
Sources
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