Crochet star Molla Mills overcame her fears through crocheting—“I feel whole when I create something wonderful with my hands”

“My professor at the University of Art and Design once suggested I could crochet something bigger. The professor had noticed I always had a crochet project in hand. That comment opened my eyes. I realized I had been crocheting since I was young, and I was quite good at it. I got into taking on larger projects. I created big planters and integrated crochet into furniture. I wrote the first Virkkuri (Modern Crochet) book as the final project for my Master's degree in art.

Molla loves bringing color to a “rather gray” Finland, but her crochet instructions are used around the world. “Even in Hawaii, people want a Finnish pattern.”

Crochet supplies are an important source of inspiration for Molla. Her signature cotton yarn is produced by Suomen Lanka.

Bags have been Molla’s favorite thing to design since she was a child. “I’ve dreamed of designing crocheted bags for a major fashion house, like Prada.”

I quit my job at an interior design shop where I worked as a shop manager, began crocheting full time, and held workshops with a friend. Hosting my first workshop was a feat of strength for me. I’ve been an introvert my whole life. I was the quiet girl in the back of the classroom, and I’d panic if I had to stand up and give a presentation. It wasn’t so much about stage fright as it was about talking to people in general. Fear ruled my youth and held me back.

When I stepped in front of people to teach, I challenged myself to conquer my fear. I’ve become more spontaneous and discovered the teacher in me. I love being with people and watching them learn. My background is an advantage. Whenever I notice a student of mine hesitant to speak up, I share how I, too, used to want to run away in similar situations.

Molla says a successful crochet project calls for good work ergonomics and a colorful workspace. Her vibrant studio fits the bill.

It takes many practice pieces before a new pattern is ready.

Molla is meticulous about the proportions in her patterns. “If they’ve become distorted while crocheting, I might unravel three days’ worth of work and start over.”

For me, Crocheting is a driving force, and the spark hasn’t faded even though it’s now my career. However, it’s financially challenging. I’m constantly applying for various benefits and grants.

I receive more rejections than acceptances, so I have to do mental work to remain creative and trust that I can continue next year. As long as I have something to offer and receive positive feedback, I feel secure.

The old Singer sewing machine has been with Molla for over twenty years. Molla made the pieces on the shelf for her book Langankiertoja (“yarn over”).

I feel whole when I create something wonderful with my hands. At its best, crocheting gives me a primal sense of achievement. After my third book, I suffered from burn-out when my relationship ended. I packed up my home and left Finland. While abroad, I paused my book promotions to focus on finding my path. Still, I never stopped designing or crocheting.

Even if I tried something else, I’m sure I would always come back to crochet.”

New pattern ideas typically start in a sketchbook that Molla carries with her, and they only take final shape later. Once the design is ready, she likes to crochet it in one sitting.