5 questions for Lella from Mayflower
Here, Lella from Mayflower explains how the collaboration between Watoto Arts and Tröstemöss Sverige became a reality and why this project means something truly special to her.
"The idea started with yarn – and grew into something bigger"
1. How was the idea for the collaboration with Watoto Arts and Tröstemöss born?
Everything actually started with yarn. We at Mayflower already had a wonderful collaboration with Tröstemöss; every month, we send yarn to their fantastic initiative. But I had kept Watoto Arts in the back of my mind for a long time. I admired their work and often thought: "What if we could do something together?"
One day, the pieces fell into place!
I thought: what would happen if we brought Tröstemöss and Watoto together? The idea felt completely right from the start – and when I told Mette at Tröstemöss about it, she was immediately excited: "Let's do this!"
I also knew that Watoto Arts was considering creating a mini-doll – a smaller version of their fantastic, inclusive dolls. When we started talking, we all felt that this was something special. Small comfort figures that could both spread joy and security – and at the same time tell a bigger story.
It feels so wonderful to be able to support two such important projects – and to see what can happen when different creative forces meet. This collaboration is about more than just yarn.
2. What makes the yarn in the DIY kit special – both to work with and to give away?
We have chosen a yarn that is perfectly suited for the purpose, both for the hands that create and for the small hands that will eventually hold the figure close. It is 100% cotton in the classic 8/4 quality: soft, supple, and yet durable enough to withstand many hugs. It is actually the same yarn that we send to Tröstemöss every month – which says something about how much we trust it. It can be washed at up to 60 degrees, which is worth its weight in gold when it comes to figures that might accompany someone on both adventures and hospital visits. Giving away something you have created yourself with this particular yarn feels extra special – it is a material that lasts, both in the heart and in the hands.
3. What do you think makes this project unique compared to other yarn collaborations?
For me, this collaboration is a true labor of love. Both Watoto Arts and Tröstemöss do fantastic work – in different ways, but with the same underlying warmth and care. Bringing them together in a joint project feels almost magical.
The small mini-dolls are more than just figures. They are symbols of comfort, diversity, and creativity – small handmade friends that can mean so much, especially in tough moments. And yes, I think they are absolutely adorable!
For us at Mayflower, this project isn't just about yarn – it's about creating something that carries care, representation, and hope. That makes it unique in my eyes.
4. Have you tried crocheting a Watoto Mini yourself? How did it go?
No, I haven't actually had time to crochet one myself yet – but I have received a few from Mette, and at least one usually follows me in my pocket. There is something about them... That little figure in your hand can truly make a difference, regardless of age.
And it isn't just children who need comfort sometimes. Having something small, soft, and nice to hold – it can be more calming than you might think. They also work unexpectedly well as a fidget toy! Simply put, a little friend to carry with you.
5. What do you hope customers feel when they open this kit?
I hope they feel the joy of creation – that warm feeling that arises when you get to do something with your hands and your heart. That they are inspired by Watoto and Tröstemöss, but perhaps most of all that they are drawn into the magical world of needlework.
We know today that creating is actually good for your health – both physically and mentally. And when we create something for someone else... the effect becomes even stronger.
To me, it feels so wonderful that Watoto, which otherwise makes everything itself under its own roof, can now offer a kit that lets others create – at home under THEIR own roof. I also hope that even more people become aware of Tröstemöss!
Inclusive mini-dolls, crocheted with love, to provide comfort. It feels like a very beautiful circle to be a part of.
This collaboration is more than just yarn and figures – it is a tribute to the power of the hand, to care, and to creativity. By combining Watoto's inclusive dolls with the wonderful initiative of Tröstemöss, something unique is born: small comfort figures with great significance.
With the DIY kit, you don't just create something beautiful – you also become part of something bigger. A project that unites people, sparks creativity, and spreads comfort, one stitch at a time.
🧶 See the crochet kit here and choose your Mini-doll
🤝 Read more about Tröstemöss Sverige
Thank you Lella for a lovely chat ❤️