There’s something about fall that makes me crave texture — that comforting, woolly kind of texture that only rustic yarn can deliver. So when I spotted the Autumn Valley Sweater by Drops Design, I knew it was the perfect match for a truly special yarn: Dachshund Daddy Knits Irish Aran, a treasure from a small mill in County Kerry, Ireland.

Just look at it — that rich, heathered twist, full of character and sheepy goodness. You can almost smell the countryside and feel the Atlantic breeze in every strand. It’s the kind of yarn that feels alive in your hands, just waiting to become something cozy and timeless.

I can already imagine the sweater taking shape: the sturdy stitches, the bold cables and textures that make this pattern shine, and that satisfying weight of a true Aran knit — not too polished, but full of soul. The yarn has that perfect rustic balance, straight from the sheep.

I’ll admit, I’m a little giddy about casting on. There’s something grounding about knitting with yarn that has a story — wool that’s traveled from Irish sheep to a tiny mill to my needles. It feels like participating in a small, beautiful circle of tradition and care.

So, here’s the plan: a few swatches (because gauge, my friends), a cup of coffee and a promise to enjoy every single stitch of this project. I’ll keep you posted as Autumn Valley comes to life — one rustic, Irish-flavored row at a time.