If you’re a Moomin fan planning a trip to Helsinki — or even a local — this fun and budget-friendly activity should be on your list!
To celebrate the 80th anniversary of the beloved Moomins, Oodi Library (Helsinki’s iconic central library) has a DIY heat press station where you can create your very own Moomin souvenir. Whether you’re visiting from abroad or exploring your own city, it’s a creative, hands-on experience that both adults and kids will enjoy.
Check out my detailed guide on the Best Things to Do in Helsinki & Espoo with Kids This Summer for even more family-friendly adventures!
🧵 What is it?
On Oodi’s second floor, next to the info desk (close to the sewing machines and infront of the printers), you’ll find a small worktable promoting this activity. It’s easy to miss if no one is using it — so keep an eye out!
The table can seat around six people at a time, and no reservation is needed. Just drop by and start creating!
You’ll get to choose from two charming Moomin designs to decorate fabric items like tote bags or your own t-shirt:
- 🏠 Moominhouse – more detailed and intricate. It takes a bit more time and patience, especially around the rooftops and Moomin characters.
- 🧸 Moomintroll – simple, adorable, and quick to apply! Perfect even for kids. Peeling off the extra vinyl took me less than 5 minutes.
- 🏠 Moominhouse – more detailed and intricate. It takes a bit more time and patience, especially around the rooftops and Moomin characters.
➡️ Tip: Tweezers are provided to help remove the extra vinyl cleanly without damaging the design.
🚫 IMPORTANT: Due to the official nature of this collaboration with Oodi and the Moomin Characters, you can only use the tote bags provided by Oodi. Personal items (like t-shirts or your own bags) are not allowed.
The workshop station is currently planned to be available until the end of the year, as we are celebrating 80 years of Moomin!
💶 How Much Does It Cost?
- Oodi’s tote bag 6€
- Oodi’s tote bag: €5
- Print design (Moominhouse or Moomintroll): €1
Can I bring my own item (like a t-shirt) ?
Sadly, no — this option is no longer available due to collaboration rights.
Yes, I brought my own shirt to customize — mostly because I already have way too many tote bags and didn’t have any Moomin t-shirts. But most importantly, I asked the staff and was told it was allowed! Later, Oodi’s staff kindly contacted me via DM to share the correct information.
I’m keeping the images and the original video because many of you have saved it for a reason! The tote bag is still a super cool activity to do when you visit Oodi, and so far I haven’t tried it myself. Honestly, I’m not sure if I will — I already have so many tote bags!
🛠️ How Does It Work?
The Moomin workshop station is on the second floor! It’s super easy, even if you’ve never done fabric printing before:
- Pick your favorite Moomin design — Moominhouse or Moomintroll
- Pay for your tote bag & Moomin print of your choice
- Grab one of Oodi’s tote bags
- Peel away the extra bits from the heat transfer sheet
- 🕒 Time Tip
- Moomintroll: under 10 minutes
- Moominhouse: allow more time — the design is more detailed and delicate
- 🕒 Time Tip
- Tell the staff when you’re ready — they’ll take you to the press
- Place the design on your tote bag, press it — and you’re done!
📹 Want to see the process before you go?
Watch the process (Instagram Reel)
🎥 Make your own Moomin t-shirt or customize Oodi’s tote bag — here’s how it works!
🚫 IMPORTANT: Due to the official nature of this collaboration with Oodi and the Moomin Characters, you can only use the tote bags provided by Oodi. Personal items (like t-shirts or your own bags) are not allowed.
👉 Follow me @mexicanmomtravels for more Helsinki tips and Finnish hidden gems!
📌 Is it worth to visit Oodi to do this Moomin activity?
Not only is this a charming and personal souvenir, it’s also a creative experience — perfect for Moomin fans, families, travelers, or anyone looking for something unique to do in Helsinki.
Plus, it’s located inside one of the city’s most beautiful and innovative buildings — Oodi Library — worth visiting on its own!
And this can be a great summer activity to do with your kids, family, or friends!
For example, my kids saw me using the heat press machine after they had spent an hour playing in the video room, and they immediately said they want to come back and make their own. Now they’re planning to return with my parents, who are visiting from Mexico!
📍 Add It to Your Helsinki Itinerary
If you’re looking for something fun, affordable, and full of Finnish charm, this DIY print station is a must. Whether you leave with a new tote or a custom Moomin shirt, you’ll take home a piece of the story.
Have you tried it already? I’d love to hear your experience — leave a comment or share your creation! You can tag me on instagram @mexicanmomtravels
