Q&A with Lyerly Spongberg Tuck: mom, dreamer and designer

Q: Who's the little moonjumper?

A: My first daughter inspired the "Mary Mary" design. Then I moved from balmy Atlanta to cold Chicago, and had another girl. I couldn't find the kind of blanket I needed for her stroller and carseat, so I got out my sewing machine and put together the first Little Moonjumper baby blanket with her name big and bold. A stranger stopped and asked me to make one for her granddaughter, and then her friend saw it and wanted one, and it went from there. Now that my 6 children are in elementary, middle, high school and college, Ive designed blankets for the older children as well for sleepaway camp and dorm rooms. I've done many designs now, sold thousands of blankets worldwide, and I still love putting colors and shapes together.

Q: Why did you design a 28" (plus trim) square?

A: Because moms are busy and these are hard-working blankets. They're made to wrap up newborns without extra bulk, and thick enough to put under babies on the floor. They tuck into carseats and strollers without getting caught in wheels and buckles. And they're easy for kids to carry around, bright enough to find quickly, and small enough to just toss in a diaper bag--or, more importantly, the washer.

Q: How else are your blankets different?

A: Babies crave the stimulation of bright colors and simple shapes. So I made these blankets fun, yuck-proof and personal, to boot. We're so de-personalized today that people--especially new, little people--need to shout out who they are. And what better way to do it, when you can't talk yet, than with your banky?

Q: Did you say "banky"?

A: (laughs) Oh, yes. And "B", "fuff," lovey," "soffy," and more. I've heard a hundred nicknames from moms and dads. Babies grow so attached to them, it's like the blankets become part of the family.

Q: Are your children grown?

A: My six children range from grade school to college. I'm around for them, and I love it -- but I need to stay in the adult world, too. I'm proud that my blankets are made in the US and I love that I'm helping to make babies and kids around the globe happier and more comfortable.

Lyerly would be happy to answer your emails. Email her with your questions or comments!