Tucked away in the windswept village of Kilcar, County Donegal, Fisherman Out of Ireland has been quietly redefining Irish Knitwear since 1991. As part of the Blarney Woollen Mills family, it was founded with a clear goal: to take traditional Irish knitting into the modern era - without losing the craftsmanship or the soul.
" We might be situated on the edge of Europe in the middle of ‘nowhere’ but our 100% natural fibre, quality, contemporary Irish knitwear is shipped far and wide to the four corners of the world."
Location - Kilcar, County Donegal, Ireland
Located in the tiny Gaeltacht village of Kilcar, County Donegal, Fisherman Out of Ireland finds its roots in one of the most rugged and picturesque corners of Ireland. Perched along the windswept Wild Atlantic Way, the factory is surrounded by rolling hills, crashing waves, and weather that changes by the minute—a landscape that not only inspires the brand’s earthy colour palette but also shapes its identity. This remote setting is more than a backdrop; it’s a vital part of the story. The quiet rhythm of rural life, the traditions of local wool-working, and the wild beauty of Donegal are woven into every piece the team creates. It’s a place where old-world craftsmanship meets contemporary design, far from the distractions of fast fashion and closer to the heart of Irish heritage and traditional Irish Knitwear
The Process: Creating Traditional Irish Sweaters
At Fisherman Out of Ireland, every garment is made entirely under one roof—from the first design sketch to the final hand-finished detail. The process begins with selecting only the finest natural fibres, such as mulesing-free merino wool, cashmere, and alpaca, often spun locally in Donegal. Skilled craftspeople then knit each piece on-site using traditional techniques and modern equipment, ensuring a perfect balance of heritage and innovation. After knitting, each item is carefully linked, washed, and finished by hand to achieve a soft, luxurious feel. This fully in-house process allows for exceptional quality control, minimal waste, and garments that are truly made to last.
Sustainability at Fisherman Out Of Ireland
Fisherman Out of Ireland is deeply committed to sustainability making conscious choices at every stage of production to reduce environmental impact. The brand uses only natural fibres for their traditional Irish knitwear, such as merino wool, alpaca, and cashmere blends, which are biodegradable and renewable. By keeping all design and manufacturing in-house, they maintain tight control over waste and energy use, while supporting local employment in their coastal Donegal community. Their slow fashion approach—creating timeless, high-quality knitwear that’s built to last—helps combat overconsumption and promotes mindful purchasing. In a world of fast fashion, Fisherman stands out for putting the planet first, proving that style, tradition, and sustainability can go hand in hand.
“We don’t mass produce. We don’t compromise. We don’t chase trends. We make modern Irish knitwear—designed and made in Donegal, for people who value natural fibres, sustainable production and timeless style.”
Some Fun Facts
Crafted in Donegal Since 1991 – Based in the Gaeltacht village of Kilcar, the brand has over three decades of experience in high-quality Irish knitwear production.
Modern Takes on Traditional Techniques – Classic Aran stitches and cable patterns are reimagined in clean, contemporary cuts and flattering shapes.
Made Entirely In-House – From design and knitting to finishing and packaging, everything is done under one roof, allowing for full traceability and quality control.
Inspired by Nature, Grounded in Place – Yarn colours reflect the raw, wild beauty of the local landscape: moss, mist, sea spray, and stone.
Luxury Fibres Only – Garments are made with premium natural blends, including mulesing-free merino, alpaca, cashmere, and locally spun Donegal yarns.
Sustainably Focused – The team works with low-impact processes, natural materials, and mindful production to reduce waste and protect the environment.
Knitwear for All Seasons – The collections include breathable lightweight pieces for layering as well as thick, cozy styles for deep winter.
Unisex and Inclusive Design – Many styles are designed to be worn by anyone, making Fisherman’s clothing timeless in both fashion and function.
Irish Craftsmanship Meets Global Style – Loved by customers around the world, Fisherman Out of Ireland brings local skill to the international fashion scene.
A Close-Knit Team – Every piece passes through the hands of experienced knitters, linkers, and finishers, whose pride and craftsmanship show in every stitch.
What Irish Knitwear Garments Do They Make?
Sweaters – including crew necks, funnel necks, roll necks, and v-necks for both men and women
Cardigans – classic and contemporary styles, buttoned or open front
Hats – knitted beanies and ribbed caps made from luxurious natural fibres
Scarves – soft, warm scarves in a range of melange-dyed tones
Jumpers – traditional and modern interpretations of Irish knitwear
Vests – sleeveless knitwear for layering
Accessories – including neck warmers and other small knit pieces
Seasonal Collections – limited edition styles and colourways inspired by the Donegal landscape
Fisherman Out of Ireland is a modern expression of Ireland’s rich knitting heritage. Their small family-run factory produces an exceptional range of contemporary Irish knitwear. Every garment—from luxurious merino wool jumpers to alpaca blend scarves and ribbed beanies—is fully designed, knitted, and hand-finished in-house.
What Makes Fisherman Out Of Ireland So Unique?
Made in Kilcar, County Donegal – Each piece is designed, knitted, and finished in a small, family-run factory nestled along Ireland’s rugged Atlantic coast.
Rooted in Tradition, Designed for Today – Fisherman Out of Ireland blends classic Irish knitwear heritage with a clean, contemporary aesthetic.
Sustainable from Start to Finish – The brand uses only natural, biodegradable fibres and operates a low-waste production model under one roof.
Inspired by Nature – Colour palettes and textures are drawn directly from the Donegal landscape—think stone, moss, seafoam, and mist.
Luxury Natural Fibres – Garments are crafted using premium materials like merino wool, alpaca, and cashmere blends, many of which are locally spun, contributing to the authenticity of their Irish knitwear.
Full In-House Production – Everything is done in-house, ensuring full traceability, consistency, and attention to detail.
Timeless, Gender-Inclusive Designs – The collections feature versatile Irish knitwear that suits a wide range of styles and wardrobes, for both men and women.
International Appeal, Local Roots – Though based in a remote part of Ireland, the brand has gained a loyal following worldwide for its authenticity and quality craftsmanship.
Part of a Legacy – Fisherman is a sister brand to Magee 1866, continuing a long-standing Donegal tradition in textile innovation, excellence and fine Irish Knitwear
“Each Fisherman piece is more than just Irish knitwear—it’s a quiet tribute to the Irish coast, crafted with care, shaped by tradition, and made to be worn for years to come.”
How to Care for Your Traditional Irish Knitwear
Washing Guidelines
Hand wash only unless otherwise indicated on the care label.
Use cold water (never hot) to prevent shrinking or felting.
Choose a mild, wool-specific detergent . Avoid standard laundry detergents or fabric softeners, which can damage the fibres.
Gently submerge the garment and lightly agitate it— do not rub, twist, or wring .
Let it soak for about 5–10 minutes , then rinse in clean, cold water until all detergent is removed.
Drying Instructions
Do not wring out the water. Instead, press the garment gently between clean towels to remove excess moisture.
Lay flat on a dry towel, reshape to original dimensions , and leave to air dry flat in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or heat sources like radiators.
Never hang your knitwear to dry—it can stretch and lose its shape.
Storage & Additional Tips
Store folded in a cool, dry place
For off-season storage, place clean knitwear in a breathable cotton bag or storage box to protect from dust and moths.
Add cedar balls or lavender sachets to deter moths naturally.
Pilling is natural with wool garments— remove gently with a fabric comb or sweater stone , never a razor.
If wrinkled, use a cool steam setting or lay in a steamy bathroom— never iron directly .
Summary: A Quick Recap:
Contemporary Irish knitwear brand based in Kilcar, County Donegal.
Known for blending traditional craftsmanship with modern design .
Uses luxurious, natural fibres like merino wool, alpaca, and cashmere blends.
Knitwear is designed and made in Ireland , supporting local industry and heritage.
Styles include chunky fisherman knits, soft crew necks, and modern silhouettes .
Each piece reflects the rugged beauty of Ireland’s west coast .
Ideal for those seeking timeless style , comfort, and authenticity.
Brand represents the evolution of Irish knitwear — heritage with a modern twist .
Sold at Irish Design House, Toronto - both in-store and online. Imported directly from the workshop in Donegal to the store in Toronto.