Moki Stitches Launches in West Duluth, Celebrating Local Craftsmanship

Moki Stitches, a new arts and crafts store, has officially opened its doors in West Duluth, located at 217 59th Ave. W. This vibrant shop, inspired by owner Brenna del Junco’s childhood nickname and gaming handle, aims to merge her passion for knitting with her love for video games.

A Unique Crafting Experience

Del Junco, 32, brings her personality to the forefront of Moki Stitches, which specializes in regional yarns and natural fibers. The store features an array of unique products, including equipment for creating skeins or center pull balls, as well as various accessories and “handmade” labels. “This is a 100% Merino wool that has been hand-dyed just outside the Twin Cities,” del Junco noted, presenting a vibrant Stardew Valley-themed yarn from Nerdy Knits. “All of her colors are inspired by video games, which was so my jam.”

In addition to offering distinctive yarns, Moki Stitches emphasizes supporting local artists. Del Junco features hand-dyed yarn from Kimber’s Cozy Creations in Iron River, Wisconsin, and Icelandic sheep wool sourced from Golden Hour Acres Farm in Carlton. “I really prefer working with local suppliers and getting to meet them in person,” she said. “It bolsters the community. It’s really important to support smaller artists.”

Providing a physical space for customers to experience the yarn firsthand is a key aspect of Moki Stitches. “If you go into a store, the staff are really knowledgeable about what they carry, and they’re able to help you fine-tune your search,” del Junco explained. “You’re buying the yarn that’s perfect for your project.”

Building a Community Through Craft

Del Junco is dedicated to fostering a welcoming community for knitters and crocheters of all skill levels, ages, and genders. “People have been hanging out, which I love,” she said. The store aims to create an inviting atmosphere resembling a “funky living room,” where customers feel comfortable spending time. Moki Stitches plans to host a range of workshops, classes, and gatherings, including queer stitch nights and multi-generational events.

The store is situated within the What We Saw Collaborative building, which houses several women-owned businesses, including a photography studio run by Michaela Rai. With two vacant rooms available for lease, del Junco hopes to attract complementary businesses to collaborate with her.

Prior to opening Moki Stitches in early November, del Junco co-owned Yarns Untangled in Toronto for four years before relocating to Duluth to be closer to family. She previously worked at Yarn Harbor in Lakeside. “The knitting community here is really active. I’m kind of surprised that there are only two stores,” she remarked, highlighting Minnesota’s reputation for knitting and crochet.

Del Junco noted that the area’s knitting styles reflect its European immigrant heritage, with a strong influence from Scandinavian designs, contrasting with the Japanese styles she encountered in Toronto.

A Lifelong Passion for Crafting

Del Junco’s journey into fiber arts began in childhood and blossomed during her high school years. “I wanted to make the first 150 Pokémon as dolls. That was my project, which was ill-conceived because that would take way too much time,” she recalled. Although she only completed 50, the experience taught her valuable design skills.

Among her favorite projects are sweaters, known for their versatility. Many of her patterns are available on Ravelry.com, although she has paused commission work to focus on personal projects. “People generally are not willing to pay for anything unless it’s knit with really thick yarn,” she explained, adding that intricate projects like socks often go undervalued.

To support her crafting passion, del Junco volunteered at the former Purple Purl, where she gained skills and knowledge from experienced crafters. “They were really instrumental in teaching me how to read patterns,” she said, expressing gratitude to former store owners Miko Schechter and Jennifer Campbell.

At only 18 years old, del Junco became the manager of Lettuce Knit in Toronto, a significant step given her limited work experience. “If she had not trusted me, I would not be where I am today,” she reflected.

Beyond her business endeavors, del Junco has participated in notable projects, including crafting a sweater for a Tim Horton’s food truck and contributing to the Gay Hair Sweater, which was worn by former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and is now housed in the Museum of Human History in Ottawa.

As Moki Stitches continues to grow, del Junco is committed to nurturing a community that supports local artists and fosters a love for knitting and crochet. With a unique blend of personal passion and professional expertise, Moki Stitches is set to become a vibrant hub for crafters in West Duluth.