For today’s featured Kansas maker, I am so excited to share my interview with Lauren Wurm of Moon Maiden Mercantile, who knits up the most wonderfully whimsical clothing and accessories! Read on to learn more about how this creative got stuck on stitching…
Moth and Rust: How did you get involved with knitting?
Lauren: Like many others, I started knitting at the beginning of the pandemic. I dabbled in crochet as a child, but it never stuck. When I started knitting I immediately wanted to learn as much about it as I could. My first project was a little pouch. I still have it to remind me how far I’ve come.
M+R: Do you design any of the patterns you use?
Lauren: I’ve never fully designed a knitting pattern. I often will alter already made ones to fit the look I’m going for. I’m in awe of pattern writers. It is certainly something I aspire to do one day.
M+R: What inspires and influences your work?
Lauren: During the pandemic I discovered the most welcoming community of knitters on Instagram. Here I’ve found friends all across the world. They inspire me with their work everyday. I’ve made beanies from friend’s hand dyed yarn along with pattern testing a sweater. It has made me experiment with my art and shape me into the knitter I am today.
I also take inspiration from my everyday life. I have three beautiful kitties so naturally I had to start making catnip toys. I like to let them test the toys before I sell the product (they have way too many toys now).
Catnip toys by Moon Maiden Mercantile 
Testing the product!
M+R: What are some of the challenges or rewards of knitting?
Lauren: Learning to knit was HARD. When people think of knitting they think of a super relaxing activity. Well, there is a huge learning curve before it comes anywhere close to that. I remember looking at a pattern and thinking it was gibberish. I would drop stitches and make up rules as I went. You finally get to a point where things just click. It feels incredible to finish a project. Having a tangible item is the most rewarding thing. People buying the items you made with your own two hands is the best validation you could ask for.
M+R: How do you hope your work will influence others?
Lauren: When someone holds an item I make I want them to feel the love I put into it. I want them to admire the stitches and think about the time that was put into making every inch. That’s the best part of handmade items. Each piece is unique and has its own story to tell. I hope more than anything that it sparks joy inside them. Maybe if I’m lucky I’ll inspire someone to take up knitting!
You can support Lauren by shopping her beautiful handknits at Moon Maiden Mercantile. Follow her on Instagram @moonmaidenmercantile for behind the scenes looks, shop updates, and more.
