I have always loved the idea of making lovely clothes, but I am pretty useless when it comes to cutting patterns from paper models and I am not exactly the type you would see handling thread and needle. Sewing machines are a mystery to me and I wouldn’t know where to start. When I first saw Clothkits designs I was impressed with the colour of the fabrics and the prints, then I realised you actually had to make the models yourself and it sounded like fun. Those who simply don’t have the time or the inclination for sewing will be happy to know all designs are also available ready made.

Clothkits is a fashion design company that was very popular in the seventies’ and after a quiet period they relaunched a fresh collection in 2008 with great models for children and adults, as well as accessories. The fun part is that you make it yourself. Their kits include the design and everything you need to complete it: the fabric with the pattern lines printed on to avoid having to cut from a paper model and everything from buttons, to thread and ribbon.

Clothkits work with young British designers that bring a fresh approach and new ideas. For me the fabrics are the best part, all hand screen printed in the UK they are vibrant and arty.

I am tempted to try and order a kit, it sounds like fun! In the end I’ll probably go for the ready option. When you buy from their website there is the option to buy the model as a kit or ready made. Ready made items are 10 pounds extra and rightly so.