Cowichan Sweaters are a symbol for British Columbia. Canadian prime ministers, US presidents, Hollywood stars, and members of the British Royal family have all been photographed wearing Cowichan sweaters.
Medium size. Chest 44", back 24", arm 31".
Each Sweater is unique and one of a kind. They are not standard sizes. The stated sizes are generalization. Consider that some sweaters are tapered at the bottom and some aren’t, and also the arm widths vary. The chest size of the sweater should be 3-6" larger than the size of the person wearing it. The back measurement is from the base of the neck to the bottom of the sweater. The arm is measured from the centre of the back-neck to the end of the sleeve.
After their traditional textile production largely ceased, Coast Salish women filled the void by taking up knitting needles, spinning machines and sheep’s wool. Adapting designs from their woven blankets and baskets, they knit warm sweaters, socks and toques for their families. Then began them trading with non-Native neighbours.
Coast Salish women have created an industry. Modern Cowichan sweaters are marketed nationally and internationally. Knitting sweaters puts food on the table and gives the women the freedom to practice their culture by taking caring of their families and attending ceremonies.
