Our Knitwear

Channel Jumper in Alderney brings you the finest quality traditional sweaters.

The guernsey is the mainstay of the Channel Island's knitting industry and can be dated back to the late 15th century. Its primary use was as a garment for fishermen who required a warm, hard wearing, yet comfortable item of clothing that would resist the wind and sea spray. The hard twist of tightly packed worsted wool fibres in the spinning process and the tightly knitted stitches, mean that it is capable of repelling rain and spray.

Originally, the Guernsey would have been knitted by the fishermen's wives and the pattern passed down from mother to daughter through the generations. Each family would have their own unique pattern so that in the unfortunate event that a fisherman was lost at sea, he could be easily identified afterwards by his jumper.

Due to their warmth and durability, Guernseys are still a favoured item of clothing for those who appreciate its reliable qualities. There is also a gradual but definite move towards a preference for “environmentally friendly” clothing made from natural, sustainable clothing which a Guernsey satisfies completely.

Whether as a gift for a loved one or as a practical requirement, a traditional Guernsey is an item of clothing that will stand the test of time and can be enjoyed for many years to follow.

Subcategories

  • The Guernsey

    Made locally with 100% finest British Wool on the island of Alderney, Bailwick of Guernsey.

    The traditional Guernsey jumper has a story to tell.

    A Guernsey jumper, also known as a Gansey or a Guernsey, is a traditional knitted garment that originated from the Bailiwick of Guernsey islands of Guernsey, Alderney and Sark) in the English Channel. These jumpers have distinct characteristics that make them unique:

    • Fisherman's Design: Guernsey jumpers were originally designed for fishermen, and their patterns often reflect this maritime heritage. Traditional patterns include cables, ropes, and other nautical motifs. The symmetrical design on the front and back of the jumper is both functional and aesthetic. It reinforces the structural integrity of the garment. Additionally, the symmetry enhances the overall visual appeal of the jumper.
    • Tight-Knit Construction: Guernseys are knitted with a tight gauge, resulting in a dense and durable fabric. The tight knit helps to provide warmth and wind resistance, making it suitable for the harsh conditions at sea.
    • Natural Wool: Traditional Guernsey jumpers are made from natural worsted wool, which has excellent insulation properties. The wool used come from sheep breeds known for their hardiness and warmth, such as the Guernsey breed.
    • Drop Shoulder: Guernseys typically have a drop shoulder construction, where the sleeve is set lower than the natural shoulder line. This design provides ease of movement and contributes to the sweater's distinctive shape.
    • Square Neckline: The neckline of a Guernsey sweater is square-shaped. This feature is both practical and stylish, allowing for ventilation and easy donning and removal.
    • Unisex Design: Guernseys are unisex and have a loose fit, making them suitable for both men and women. The classic design is simple and functional, emphasizing durability and practicality.
    • Cuff and Hem Details: Guernsey jumpers feature ribbed cuffs and hems, providing a snug fit at the wrists and waist. This helps to trap warmth and keep the jumper in place during physical activities.
    • Functionality: The design of Guernsey jumpers is rooted in functionality. The patterns not only add a decorative touch but also serve functional purposes, such as helping to identify fishermen from a particular village and providing an extra layer of insulation in key areas.
    • Traditional Colors: While modern variations may come in a range of colors, traditional Guernsey sweaters are often found in natural, undyed shades of wool.
    • Hand-Knitted: Historically, Guernseys were hand-knitted and are still hand-crafted by skilled artisans today.

    These characteristics contribute to the enduring appeal and cultural significance of Guernsey jumpers, which have become iconic representations of traditional maritime knitwear.

  • Longis

    Guernsey-style jumper in a soft, special blend of pure new wool

  • The Jersey

    Made locally with 100% finest British Wool on the island of Alderney, Bailwick of Guernsey.

  • The Alderney

    Made locally with 100% finest British Wool on the island of Alderney, Bailwick of Guernsey.

    Our Alderney jumper is very special to us because the inception of the company was as a result of the desire to resume production of this very unique jumper. Our current design has developed from the original basic pattern following research into other knitting patterns that were in use at the time that the Alderney came into production. At the center of the pattern is a lion holding a sprig, the coat of arms of our island.

    The inspiration for our Alderney comes from the beautiful Island on which we live and the strong desire to maintain as much tradition and 'Island' way of life as possible. Although Alderney has always been strongly reliant on it's sister island Guernsey, it is fiercely independent and determined to keep its own identity. We believe that our Alderney jumper is a good representation of the love and passion we have for our Island and that this will be experienced by the wearer, even if they have never visited Alderney before.

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