If you’ve ever stumbled into Moominvalley - whether as a child or an adult - you’ll know it’s not just a place, but a feeling. Peaceful, a little quirky, and full of warmth. It’s a world where small things matter, differences are embraced, and adventure always lies just around the corner (usually with a pot of coffee and some philosophical musing thrown in).
At the heart of this magical world is its creator, Tove Jansson. An extraordinary Finnish-Swedish artist, writer and illustrator, she poured herself into the Moomins - quietly, cleverly, and with great compassion.
Tove was born into a creative household in Helsinki in 1914. Her father was a sculptor, her mother an illustrator, and from an early age she was immersed in art. She trained at art schools in Stockholm, Helsinki, and Paris, and originally made her living painting and illustrating for magazines. But it was the Moomins that truly captured her heart - and ours.
Each Moomin character feels like it’s stepped straight out of a dream - but there’s more to them than whimsy. Many were inspired by people in Tove’s own life.
Moomintroll, sweet and curious, was a reflection of Tove herself. Moominmamma, with her bottomless handbag and calming presence, drew on her own mother. Moominpappa’s longing for adventure? A touch of her father, Viktor. And Snufkin, the free-spirited wanderer with his harmonica and deep thoughts, was inspired by Atos Wirtanen, a political philosopher and one of Tove’s great loves.
Then there’s the sharp and practical Little My - fearless, tiny, and always ready to speak her mind. She may seem like the opposite of gentle Moomintroll, but she brings balance to the valley, and a good dose of fire.
Tove herself once said that she started writing the Moomins during a dark and difficult time in her life, as a way to escape the world around her. What began as a coping mechanism blossomed into a universe that has comforted and inspired generations.
Her background as a painter is clear in every illustration - sweeping ink lines, dreamy landscapes, and expressive characters that seem to move even when standing still. She didn’t just draw the Moomins - she lived with them, day after day, as both creator and companion.
And now, here I am, many years later, carefully translating Tove’s beloved world into thread.
Along with my dear friend (and long time CKC customer!) Heather, I'm currently working on a new book for Search Press, Moomin Embroidery - a celebration of these characters through the calming, absorbing craft of hand stitching. Here’s a sneak peek - I hope that each design captures a little of the quiet magic that makes Moominvalley feel like home.
Tove’s legacy isn’t just the Moomins - it’s a way of seeing the world. With kindness, with honesty, and with great love for nature, creativity, and being just exactly who you are.
If that isn’t something worth stitching into every day, I don’t know what is.
Take a look at our Moomin cross stitch and embroidery kits here!