tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-51703672799830653942024-03-13T00:25:56.078+00:00peak princessVintage style Liberty print children's clothes for babies, little girls and boys up to 9 years. Individually handmade in the Peak District.Lissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662651371888817357noreply@blogger.comBlogger108125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170367279983065394.post-41406627082259452432011-08-16T22:14:00.000+01:002011-08-16T22:14:34.026+01:00New blog<div style="text-align: center;">Hi everyone, I'll be blogging from <a href="http://www.peakprincess.co.uk/news/">my new website</a> from now on. best wishes, Lissa </div>Lissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662651371888817357noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170367279983065394.post-8691749648855195002011-04-14T09:20:00.000+01:002011-04-14T09:20:49.706+01:00bonny babies & chubby children<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DaIDx8IMn4E/TaarzCbfF-I/AAAAAAAAAs0/9fDFSDx5qwk/s1600/BBCBreakfast3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DaIDx8IMn4E/TaarzCbfF-I/AAAAAAAAAs0/9fDFSDx5qwk/s320/BBCBreakfast3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">The <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-13066252">first ever nationwide sizing survey</a> is out today and it shows children are significantly taller and fatter than their parents were at the same age. Both typical waist-lines and height have increased over the last 30 years. Girls are typically 2cm taller, with waist measurements up by 8cm, and boys are 4cm taller, with waists up by 7cm.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SFeH0ALNwf0/TaaryJpT7hI/AAAAAAAAAsw/SdH9Lghq628/s1600/BBCbreakfast.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="187" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SFeH0ALNwf0/TaaryJpT7hI/AAAAAAAAAsw/SdH9Lghq628/s320/BBCbreakfast.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">I was asked what I thought by reporter Tamsin Smith for BBC Breakfast TV. It's a sensitive issue and I'm sympathetic to parents with children who are larger than average as I was definitely a 'bonny' baby. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W7okkjJDt3c/TaasBRkwOII/AAAAAAAAAs4/iLZ7OGQZmzk/s1600/littlelissa_weblarge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W7okkjJDt3c/TaasBRkwOII/AAAAAAAAAs4/iLZ7OGQZmzk/s320/littlelissa_weblarge.jpg" width="236" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">a bonny me - apparently aged only 18 months!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;">In fact I recently found an old pattern for a dress that Mum used to make for me with sizing for girls and "chubbies"! I think it's affected my designs. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1aZ6AcOjff0/Taart0HEn3I/AAAAAAAAAss/xBLgQqMKem4/s1600/chubbies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1aZ6AcOjff0/Taart0HEn3I/AAAAAAAAAss/xBLgQqMKem4/s320/chubbies.jpg" width="320" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;">I try and make clothes that will flatter the skinniest minnies as well as covering little tummies. But undoubtedly I have a huge advantage over the mass manufacturers because I'm able to cut a bodice a little larger and mix and match it with a skirt that's a little longer to fit your child. But the high street retailers will have to adapt their sizing to reflect the changing shape of today's generation of children. <br />
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I'd love to know what you think.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Lissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662651371888817357noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170367279983065394.post-49515372823679852402011-03-18T00:10:00.007+00:002011-03-18T20:00:12.155+00:00cut your own Cloth<div style="text-align: center;">If you've ever fancied having a go at making your own clothes or simpler projects like scarves or bags then Cloth Magazine (www.clothmagazine.co.uk) is for you. This new, handy A5 size mag is packed with lovely ideas to inspire you to design, make and wear your own creations.<br />
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I was flattered to be asked to come up with a new design that readers could try for themselves. The result is <a href="http://www.peakprincess.co.uk/girls--browse-and-order%281758934%29.htm">my new 'Baby Annie' sundress</a>*. (Issue 7, spring). Mum and I put our heads together and I hope we've come up with a design that will encourage you to have a go. You can <a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1748310504">download the pattern here.</a> <br />
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If you don't feel up to it, I'm more than happy to make one for you - they are now available online in the Liberty print of your choice for £32.99. (The <a href="http://www.peakprincess.co.uk/userimages/girls--in-stock-and-reduced%281702737%29.htm">3 original samples</a> are also on sale from £9.99)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-4tmrV5znRaU/TYO5UJGIHzI/AAAAAAAAAsk/KVvtdgji0Qc/s1600/CLOTHpage1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-4tmrV5znRaU/TYO5UJGIHzI/AAAAAAAAAsk/KVvtdgji0Qc/s400/CLOTHpage1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-DrAamCHH0IE/TYO5XqS_uEI/AAAAAAAAAso/BcQTQeHO6H4/s1600/CLOTHpage2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-DrAamCHH0IE/TYO5XqS_uEI/AAAAAAAAAso/BcQTQeHO6H4/s400/CLOTHpage2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;">* Peak Princess fans will know that all my dresses are named after my friends' children. This latest one is named in honour of my friend Janneke's little girl. I thought it was apt as Janneke's a designer too.</div>Lissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662651371888817357noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170367279983065394.post-28695514171097443612011-02-09T09:46:00.000+00:002011-02-09T09:46:42.558+00:00how to tie a bow<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/VJv4Qh7zR3E?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> My <a href="http://www.peakprincess.co.uk/bridesmaids-and-page-boys%281999967%29.htm">handmade Liberty print bridesmaid dress collection</a> was inspired by a visit to the V&A Grace Kelly exhibition with my Mum in the summer. Nearly every dress had a beautiful big bow on it. <br />
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But when it came to actually tying the bows I had a nightmare. My Mum (a couture dress-maker) reassured me that she used to have exactly the same problem - which used to exasperate her boss who had to tell her over and over again. She patiently taught me and left me with example bows but every time - ribbon in each hand I'd nearly be in tears. She lives in London and it's not easy to explain over the phone. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(I do wonder if it's a dyslexia type thing. Mum has dyslexia and though I have no problem with my reading I'm terribly in the car with left-right directions, as my husband will testify.)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But by the power of You Tube I've discovered this fabulous video by this American gentleman's outfitters 'How to Tie a Bow Tie'. It's brilliant and I could listen to his gentle accent forever.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So for any customers - this is how you do it! Simple.</div>Lissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662651371888817357noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170367279983065394.post-49788248858048874272011-02-04T13:16:00.000+00:002011-02-04T13:16:19.560+00:00twit-twoo<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TUv6eBa30LI/AAAAAAAAAr8/C_K7YAf4nfM/s1600/IMG_5242.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TUv6eBa30LI/AAAAAAAAAr8/C_K7YAf4nfM/s320/IMG_5242.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TUv6fD-ldJI/AAAAAAAAAsA/Jm_0ZPjnjKM/s1600/IMG_5243.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TUv6fD-ldJI/AAAAAAAAAsA/Jm_0ZPjnjKM/s320/IMG_5243.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TUv6gyghxRI/AAAAAAAAAsM/5ZM0raUXwpo/s1600/IMG_5261.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TUv6gyghxRI/AAAAAAAAAsM/5ZM0raUXwpo/s320/IMG_5261.jpg" width="219" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TUv6hZUaJ7I/AAAAAAAAAsQ/Bd2g3wRaUH8/s1600/IMG_5263.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="221" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TUv6hZUaJ7I/AAAAAAAAAsQ/Bd2g3wRaUH8/s320/IMG_5263.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TUv6cWCqRzI/AAAAAAAAAr4/6QKV7R0wDwM/s1600/IMG_5241.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TUv6cWCqRzI/AAAAAAAAAr4/6QKV7R0wDwM/s320/IMG_5241.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TUv6gAbh4VI/AAAAAAAAAsI/GMfZdS5SzAw/s1600/IMG_5250.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TUv6gAbh4VI/AAAAAAAAAsI/GMfZdS5SzAw/s320/IMG_5250.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TUv6cOCX_EI/AAAAAAAAAr0/Y_g4jsGAXEk/s1600/IMG_5240.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TUv6cOCX_EI/AAAAAAAAAr0/Y_g4jsGAXEk/s320/IMG_5240.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TUv7YrCFISI/AAAAAAAAAsU/zOHfvsYD7cM/s1600/IMG_5247.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TUv7YrCFISI/AAAAAAAAAsU/zOHfvsYD7cM/s320/IMG_5247.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Been meaning to post these for a while - one of my lovely new prints (already nearly out of stock as some's reserved for a wedding but more in the pink version). It's called Eliza's Owls.<br />
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These are my Harvey Moonbeam dungarees - now available in smaller 3-6m and also a little ruffle pinafore (hopefully arrived in the USA already). Oh and not forgetting Emily Pickle's darling hair bobbles. </div>Lissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662651371888817357noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170367279983065394.post-67269938905738312212011-02-01T17:46:00.000+00:002011-02-01T17:46:22.107+00:00farewell Mark, welcome back Millie<div style="text-align: center;">I have finally used my last metre of Liberty's pink paisley Mark. I had to cut it extremely carefully but have managed to get a <a href="http://www.peakprincess.co.uk/userimages/liberty-allinones-NEW-AW10%281612279%29.htm">baby romper</a> as well as a <a href="http://www.peakprincess.co.uk/userimages/liberty-print-hats-and-bonnets%282027414%29.htm">baby hat</a> and a <a href="http://www.peakprincess.co.uk/hair-accessories-and-jewellery%281977302%29.htm">baby headband</a> out of it. (Hat pics coming soon - reversible with Milo - adorable).</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TUhFGy_gt9I/AAAAAAAAAqw/zUceThPyFtQ/s1600/BB_mark_wl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TUhFGy_gt9I/AAAAAAAAAqw/zUceThPyFtQ/s320/BB_mark_wl.jpg" width="237" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TUhFm1x2D5I/AAAAAAAAAq0/FdWYcYER2mk/s1600/headband_mark_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="137" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TUhFm1x2D5I/AAAAAAAAAq0/FdWYcYER2mk/s320/headband_mark_2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TUhE8u7TE-I/AAAAAAAAAqs/ShQDemLh2WM/s1600/BB_mark4_6cm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> The very last offcuts have gone to a lovely customer, Becky Warwick, who turns them into wonderful Isla Baby products like products like these <a href="http://islabbaby.blogspot.com/2011/01/love-is-in-air.htmlhttp://islabbaby.blogspot.com/2011/01/love-is-in-air.html">Valentine cards using Liberty Millie</a>. (I've just reordered a roll of Millie from Liberty which is one of my original and favourite prints).</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TUhGNEONbNI/AAAAAAAAAq4/cCafnZ-BQB0/s1600/IslaBabyLoveBird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TUhGNEONbNI/AAAAAAAAAq4/cCafnZ-BQB0/s1600/IslaBabyLoveBird.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TUhGNlZm_qI/AAAAAAAAAq8/inrOHaIsHaw/s1600/IslaBabyValentinegirl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TUhGNlZm_qI/AAAAAAAAAq8/inrOHaIsHaw/s1600/IslaBabyValentinegirl.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Click here to see <a href="http://www.peakprincess.co.uk/pick-your-liberty-print%282061418%29.htm">my full range of Liberty prints</a>.</div>Lissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662651371888817357noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170367279983065394.post-36690733358636965832011-01-10T15:19:00.002+00:002011-01-10T15:23:07.107+00:00new year, new liberty prints!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TSsiO-996OI/AAAAAAAAAp0/kKtVKUBx0q8/s320/elizas+owls+blue.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="237" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eliza's Owls - blue</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;">Happy New Year! It may be grey and dull outside but my sewing room's a cheerful riot of <a href="http://www.peakprincess.co.uk/pick-your-liberty-print%282061418%29.htm">new spring prints</a>. Liberty's new limited edition Arts Fabric range is inspired by children's literature so there are owls, puppy dogs and enchanted woods - perfect for little boys and girls alike. There's also a colourful patchwork print in pink or orange as well as good old fashioned sweet peas.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TSsiPaNImdI/AAAAAAAAAp4/WUkt2MUEbTc/s1600/elizas+owls+pink.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TSsiPaNImdI/AAAAAAAAAp4/WUkt2MUEbTc/s320/elizas+owls+pink.jpg" width="238" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eliza's Owls - pink</td></tr>
</tbody></table></div><div style="text-align: center;">As with all my handmade childrens clothes for girls and boys, it couldn't be simpler. Browse <a href="http://www.peakprincess.co.uk/">my online shop</a>, pick the style you like from my range of babywear, dresses, skirts, shirts trousers and tops, and then choose from <a href="http://www.peakprincess.co.uk/pick-your-liberty-print%282061418%29.htm">my range of more than 50 Liberty prints</a>.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TSsiREkTRvI/AAAAAAAAAqE/d6xwB2QXQMY/s1600/milopink.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TSsiREkTRvI/AAAAAAAAAqE/d6xwB2QXQMY/s320/milopink.jpg" width="293" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Milo - pink</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TSsiQpkGfxI/AAAAAAAAAqA/JOc2LHqzVn0/s1600/milo+orange.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TSsiQpkGfxI/AAAAAAAAAqA/JOc2LHqzVn0/s320/milo+orange.jpg" width="243" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Milo - orange</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TSsiSE_9hnI/AAAAAAAAAqM/4TfS3wYSEQY/s1600/miyako.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TSsiSE_9hnI/AAAAAAAAAqM/4TfS3wYSEQY/s320/miyako.jpg" width="242" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mirako - Toyko street scene</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TSsiSmcOzuI/AAAAAAAAAqQ/YmEWFCZppc4/s1600/moritz+pea+blue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TSsiSmcOzuI/AAAAAAAAAqQ/YmEWFCZppc4/s320/moritz+pea+blue.jpg" width="244" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Moritz Pea</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TSsiTBC_cAI/AAAAAAAAAqU/NgcIvu0nD8o/s1600/plum+dog+orange.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TSsiTBC_cAI/AAAAAAAAAqU/NgcIvu0nD8o/s320/plum+dog+orange.jpg" width="246" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plum Dog - green</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TSsiTnm7-jI/AAAAAAAAAqY/j0mzLpyb-_Y/s1600/plum+dog+pink.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TSsiTnm7-jI/AAAAAAAAAqY/j0mzLpyb-_Y/s320/plum+dog+pink.jpg" width="237" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plum Dog - pink</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TSsiVGQPSzI/AAAAAAAAAqk/gR8MrOc3QA4/s1600/Tuesday+Trees+blue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TSsiVGQPSzI/AAAAAAAAAqk/gR8MrOc3QA4/s320/Tuesday+Trees+blue.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tuesday Trees - blue</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TSsiVedclBI/AAAAAAAAAqo/2Qie_Kpjnic/s1600/Tuesday+Trees+pink.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TSsiVedclBI/AAAAAAAAAqo/2Qie_Kpjnic/s320/Tuesday+Trees+pink.jpg" width="242" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tuesday Trees - pink</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TSsiQL7EUfI/AAAAAAAAAp8/9xc3DhrBUoo/s1600/millie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TSsiQL7EUfI/AAAAAAAAAp8/9xc3DhrBUoo/s320/millie.jpg" width="306" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Millie</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TSsiRp1QHkI/AAAAAAAAAqI/on0HOOGZtEU/s1600/mirabelle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TSsiRp1QHkI/AAAAAAAAAqI/on0HOOGZtEU/s320/mirabelle.jpg" width="293" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mirabelle</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TSsiUp7zLUI/AAAAAAAAAqg/qxZNq-rV0Sc/s1600/Tom%2527s+Jet+blue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TSsiUp7zLUI/AAAAAAAAAqg/qxZNq-rV0Sc/s320/Tom%2527s+Jet+blue.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tom's Jets - blue</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Lissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662651371888817357noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170367279983065394.post-89359799701964732422010-12-14T20:44:00.000+00:002010-12-14T20:44:39.773+00:00bridesmaids galore<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TQfUYh4GcSI/AAAAAAAAAps/nBdqTk_ArCc/s1600/DSC_8917.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TQfUYh4GcSI/AAAAAAAAAps/nBdqTk_ArCc/s320/DSC_8917.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TQfTrsgPa5I/AAAAAAAAApQ/eXSkr7F56ZU/s1600/DSC_8859.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TQfTrsgPa5I/AAAAAAAAApQ/eXSkr7F56ZU/s1600/DSC_8859.JPG" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Somehow I can never quite believe that a roll of fabric in my sewing room can be turned into something as magical as a little girl's dream dress...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">...but this week I've had two lovely reminders of the magic of dress-making.<br />
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I met Shelley Baker (<a href="http://www.thestudio-mickleover.co.uk/">The Studio, Mickleover</a>, Derby) via twitter & was immediately impressed by her portfolio. So I was flattered when she asked if she could borrow two of my '<a href="http://www.peakprincess.co.uk/bridesmaids-and-flower-girls%281999967%29.htm">Bella Luella' puff sleeve bridesmaid dresses</a> for a photo shoot at <a href="http://www.langleypriory.co.uk/">Langley Priory</a>, near Castle Donington in Derbyshire. These are two of the pics (<a href="http://thestudio-mickleover.blogspot.com/">click here</a> to see more). Can't wait to see more. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And the cherry on my beautifully iced cake was opening my copy of <a href="http://www.bridesmagazine.co.uk/">Conde Nast Brides magazine</a> to see the exquisite summer garden party fashion shoot, styled by lifestyle ed, Polly Atkinson, featuring two of my new <a href="http://www.peakprincess.co.uk/bridesmaids-and-flower-girls%281999967%29.htm">'Grace Kelly' shirt-waister pleat pinafores.</a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TQfUPGrofaI/AAAAAAAAApo/e2vdZmcAAXk/s1600/bridesFRONT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TQfUPGrofaI/AAAAAAAAApo/e2vdZmcAAXk/s320/bridesFRONT.jpg" width="233" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TQfULPChaVI/AAAAAAAAApU/uwaup_e9GAA/s1600/brides1_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TQfULPChaVI/AAAAAAAAApU/uwaup_e9GAA/s320/brides1_2.jpg" width="244" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TQfUMLQ0iwI/AAAAAAAAApY/uzjV7PIsj1I/s1600/brides1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TQfUMLQ0iwI/AAAAAAAAApY/uzjV7PIsj1I/s320/brides1.jpg" width="249" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TQfUM7AjfqI/AAAAAAAAApc/LGS5rpFtn1E/s1600/brides2_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TQfUM7AjfqI/AAAAAAAAApc/LGS5rpFtn1E/s320/brides2_2.jpg" width="237" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TQfUNhKzsjI/AAAAAAAAApg/XF9_MlYVWXU/s1600/brides2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TQfUNhKzsjI/AAAAAAAAApg/XF9_MlYVWXU/s320/brides2.jpg" width="236" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div>Lissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662651371888817357noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170367279983065394.post-32273056360641418482010-12-10T10:01:00.002+00:002010-12-10T10:06:12.512+00:00A little bird......is one of a handful of websites and newsletters that I swear by to help guide me through the clutter of cyberspace shopping.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TQH1AOsb1uI/AAAAAAAAApM/hCHFhni0U6Y/s1600/Screen+shot+2010-12-10+at+09.35.55.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TQH1AOsb1uI/AAAAAAAAApM/hCHFhni0U6Y/s1600/Screen+shot+2010-12-10+at+09.35.55.png" /></a></div><br />
Like most people I sigh when another junk mail drops into my inbox but there are a select few that buck the trend - the only downside is being distracted from work while you coo and sigh over the latest delight.<br />
<br />
What distinguishes them is a love of what they do, knowledge and passion and a hefty dose of wit and humour. And though I've not had the pleasure to meet any of them personally, they all engage with their readers with sweet little messages on email or twitter.<br />
<br />
My latest pick of the bunch is <a href="http://www.a-littlebird.com/">A Little Bird</a>, set up by Daisy Garnett and a Francesca Martin who met at Vogue. They describe the site as<i> 'an opinionated guide to what's on'</i>. As a former BBC Radio 4 producer how could I resist any site described by the Guardian as <i>'Radio 4 meets Vogue online'</i>? Being opinionated is key - nothing more dull than the wishy-washy. Strong editorial opinion makes me trust what they say.<br />
<br />
Similarly Kate Carter's Fashion Statement for <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle">Guardian Life & Style</a> is a mid-week must read. Take for example last week's profile of fashion goddess Anna Della Russo. Though I confess I usually scroll straight down to the faux-pas of Fashion Graveyard.<br />
<br />
Another fabulous newcomer is <a href="http://chiclittlebaby.blogspot.com/">Chic Little Baby</a> blog. Also formerly of Vogue's parish, Maggie Westhead is Associate Shopping & Style editor of Time Out magazine, London. She seeks out the best sales, the coolest shops and the most delectable buys.<br />
<br />
If you're a print junkie who seems the pleasure of glossy pages, then <a href="http://www.angelsandurchins.co.uk/newsletter.php">Angels and Urchins</a> is for you. Editors Annie Reid and Emily Turner infuse the magazine with their personality. The quarterly publication's perfectly complemented by Claire Gill's weekly newsletter. A concise, colourful digest to what's hot in London.<br />
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If you want to dress up your home, rather than your children, take a peek at Ellie Tennant's <a href="http://homeshoppingspy.wordpress.com/">Home Shopping Spy</a>. <br />
<br />
For the man in your life, <a href="http://www.oipolloi.com/%20">Oi Polloi </a>can't be beaten. This Manchester retailer's enews letter is like Saville Row meets Noel Gallagher. Describing itself as the antidote to stale and uninspired menswear it's also a trail-blazer in how to sell online.<br />
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Last but not least word has to go to Times Top 40 blogger <a href="http://www.dulwichmum.net/profile">Dulwich Mum</a>. Relentlessly funny, DM has made twittering into an art-form.Lissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662651371888817357noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170367279983065394.post-32697870678459195482010-11-22T16:10:00.000+00:002010-11-22T16:10:58.362+00:00My ideal home<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TOqSfK0cOgI/AAAAAAAAApA/XtwDo5FoYww/s1600/idealhomeXMASfront.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TOqSfK0cOgI/AAAAAAAAApA/XtwDo5FoYww/s320/idealhomeXMASfront.jpg" width="233" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">A big thank you to Ellie Tennant, Deputy Ed Shopping Ed and <a href="http://homeshoppingspy.wordpress.com/">Home Shopping Spy</a> at Ideal Home for picking <a href="http://www.peakprincess.co.uk/userimages/liberty-print-cushion-covers%282029195%29.htm">my handmade Liberty print cushion covers</a> for <a href="http://www.idealhomemagazine.co.uk/">Ideal Home magazine's Christmas Gift Guide</a>. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">There's a certain irony in my being featured as I'm terribly organised when it comes to designing and making gifts for other people to give to each other but I never get round to making clothes, curtains or cushions for myself.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
My ideal home would be full of hand-made cushions, upholstered seats and patchwork quilts. Yet the cushions on our beaten up but beloved Chesterfield are shedding feathers and a desperate for new covers and I haven't had time to buy a single Christmas present - not even the smallest stocking filler. <br />
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And my god-son and god-daughter have only just got their birthday presents (from June and October respectively!). </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Perhaps making more for myself should be my New Year's Resolution!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TOqSf8Jx6eI/AAAAAAAAApE/w0r6bbG8mGA/s1600/idealhomeXMASinside.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TOqSf8Jx6eI/AAAAAAAAApE/w0r6bbG8mGA/s320/idealhomeXMASinside.jpg" width="237" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TOqShbjIl4I/AAAAAAAAApI/ZQ5bnT70Rbg/s1600/idealhomeXMASinside2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TOqShbjIl4I/AAAAAAAAApI/ZQ5bnT70Rbg/s320/idealhomeXMASinside2.jpg" width="259" /></a></div>Lissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662651371888817357noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170367279983065394.post-1191569181831251242010-11-18T21:57:00.000+00:002010-11-18T21:57:02.047+00:00I promise I will do my best...<div style="text-align: center;">...to make a dozen scrunchies simultaneously for a dozen girl guides.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I was a little apprehensive to say the least when Sarah asked if I'd teach <a href="http://www.chinleyca.org.uk/?Clubs:1st_Guides">1st Chinley Guides</a> how to sew for their Craft Badge.</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> So last week I piled lots of my Peak Princess dresses into a suitcase along with the wedding dress my Mum made me, along with pins, needles & thread. Sarah brought lots of pretty fabrics, elastic and ribbons. We had two very old sewing machines that had seen better days.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TOWd4eTYCOI/AAAAAAAAAo8/aRR9NeDg7wY/s1600/IMG_4649.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="155" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TOWd4eTYCOI/AAAAAAAAAo8/aRR9NeDg7wY/s320/IMG_4649.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">I think my teaching methods are best described as organised chaos but the girls took to sewing like ducks to water. A few were even enquiring about the price of sewing machines. (Personally, I love the <a href="http://www.johnlewis.com/230958290/Product.aspx">fuchsia pink John Lewis mini-machines</a> for just £50). </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TOWd3ZfUL0I/AAAAAAAAAo4/Tqnfuzqpljw/s1600/girlguides.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="185" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TOWd3ZfUL0I/AAAAAAAAAo4/Tqnfuzqpljw/s400/girlguides.jpg" width="400" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TOWd4eTYCOI/AAAAAAAAAo8/aRR9NeDg7wY/s1600/IMG_4649.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">This evening was part 2 with the second group. Some of the more adventurous went straight on to hair bands and hanging hearts. And Caitlin had even made herself a floral mini-tote bag over the weekend.<br />
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We started making newspaper patterns - wide and short for fatter, less gathered scrunchies and long and narrow for bunched up, thin ones. I suspect the scouts might find a few pins on the floor when they are next in. Next was pinning right-side to right-side (perpendicular to the machine needle); then seaming (a cm from the edge); pulling inside out with a safety pin; sewing ends rs to rs to form a tube; threading elastic and Bob's almost your uncle. Just a little outside seam and voila!<br />
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Thank you girls! <br />
<br />
</div>Lissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662651371888817357noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170367279983065394.post-46433985761403804112010-10-29T11:16:00.000+01:002010-10-29T11:16:37.605+01:00chic little baby update<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TMqdFyctK5I/AAAAAAAAAow/1OSHm6s156Y/s1600/IMG_3959.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TMqdFyctK5I/AAAAAAAAAow/1OSHm6s156Y/s320/IMG_3959.jpg" width="273" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Thanks to Maggie at <a href="http://chiclittlebaby.blogspot.com/">Chic Little Baby</a> for featuring my latest designs for <a href="http://www.peakprincess.co.uk/buy-madetoorder-for-boys%281817180%29.htm">boys</a> and <a href="http://www.peakprincess.co.uk/buy-madetoorder-for-girls%281758934%29.htm">girls</a> up to 8-9 years including my Finley Oskar long-sleeved boy's shirt. I'm very flattered as Maggie's not just a top blogger but also a top fashion journalist who's worked for Vogue. She's now the Associate Shopping & Style editor of Time Out magazine, London. Keep an eye on her blog for next month's competition for your choice to win a <a href="http://www.peakprincess.co.uk/userimages/liberty-print-shirts-NEW-AW10%281593613%29.htm">Peak Prince Liberty print shirt</a> or <a href="http://www.peakprincess.co.uk/userimages/liberty-smock-frock--NEW-AW10%281811794%29.htm">Peak Princess winter smock frock</a>.<br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TMqdHuG8JBI/AAAAAAAAAo0/7l2uqIHTpeU/s1600/IMG_4139.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TMqdHuG8JBI/AAAAAAAAAo0/7l2uqIHTpeU/s320/IMG_4139.jpg" width="208" /></a></div>Lissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662651371888817357noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170367279983065394.post-42383064384663422092010-10-22T17:31:00.000+01:002010-10-22T17:31:43.295+01:00I could do that!<div style="text-align: center;">One of the best things about starting my own business has been discovering the wealth of help and support that's out there.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TMG7RkRN3WI/AAAAAAAAAoo/Z8voK-8OKao/s320/bizlinkoct2010.jpg" width="234" /><br />
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Two key people helped me out in the very early days. One was Sue Scholes from our local <a href="http://www.businesslink.gov.uk/bdotg/action/home">Business Link</a>. She listened to my plans, made sensible suggestions and was a mine of information about the nitty gritty like Trading Standards. Regular meetings with her kept me focused and a free marketing course was the source of inspiration for my tagline ...with love sewn in. My google ranking jumped to page one after I learned the dark arts of Search Engine Optimisation at another of their free courses. They've just published an interview with me in their quarterly <a href="http://www.highpeak.gov.uk/business/">Business Connect magazine</a>.<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TMG7RkRN3WI/AAAAAAAAAoo/Z8voK-8OKao/s1600/bizlinkoct2010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TMG7TAcTtvI/AAAAAAAAAos/Wq-pRFSEsuY/s1600/enationoct2010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="175" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TMG7TAcTtvI/AAAAAAAAAos/Wq-pRFSEsuY/s320/enationoct2010.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Another was Emma Jones at <a href="http://www.enterprisenation.com/detail/Lissas_Story_I_could_do_that/3757/1.aspx">Enterprise Nation</a>. I was totally intimidated by business advice books by Dragons and other city big shots. Emma's '<a href="http://www.enterprisenation.com/shop/detail/Spare_Room_Start_Up/14/31.aspx">Spare Room Start Up</a>' was a breath of fresh air. Down to earth & full of common sense. I read it in one sitting (a late night!), took her advice and emailed her. She kindly interviewed me and posted it on the brilliant Enterprise Nation website. It was one of my first pieces of PR and a huge confidence boost. They've just done an updated interview with me (<a href="http://www.enterprisenation.com/detail/Lissas_Story_I_could_do_that/3757/1.aspx">Lissa's Story - I could do that!</a>).</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">But undoubtedly the biggest source of help and support has been friends and family. Mum's become my design consultant and quality controller, my in-laws are my graphic design team, my sister-in-law put me in touch with Liberty of London and is always at hand for astute advice on pricing, my older sister taught me to take half-decent photos, my younger sister's retail eye rescued my branding and I've now lost count of all the forebearing friends who've let me use their children for modeling and fitting sessions. Suffice to say, the biggest thanks has to go to little Tilly Toadstool - my god-daughter. Without her there would be no Peak Princess.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Lissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662651371888817357noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170367279983065394.post-77264338022305624182010-10-21T10:36:00.000+01:002010-10-21T10:36:16.600+01:00bye bye Mark<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
<img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TMAIEuTloNI/AAAAAAAAAog/o9cZdL_54Gk/s320/ARdenim_mark.jpg" width="262" /><br />
<br />
I've just cut this <a href="http://www.peakprincess.co.uk/userimages/liberty-shift-dresses-NEW-AW10%281248118%29.htm">'Anya Rose' denim shift with Liberty 'Mark' </a>print lining and pleat and realised I only have a metre of Mark left. How sad. Mark has a special place in my heart. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TMAIBD8LDfI/AAAAAAAAAoc/vEQaQzS4A_U/s1600/markpink.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TMAIBD8LDfI/AAAAAAAAAoc/vEQaQzS4A_U/s1600/markpink.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> It was one of my original collection prints and this is the dress that <a href="http://peakprincess.blogspot.com/2009/12/as-featured-in-sunday-times-style.html">Sunday Times Style</a> magazine featured. All good things have to come to an end. So goodbye Mark and hello Felicite, Pep, Lou Lou Isabella, Toria. (<a href="http://www.peakprincess.co.uk/pick-your-liberty-print%282061418%29.htm">Click here to see the full range of my prints</a>).<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TMAIHzuL6QI/AAAAAAAAAok/0ijaoS4K5Dk/s1600/style2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="282" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TMAIHzuL6QI/AAAAAAAAAok/0ijaoS4K5Dk/s320/style2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Lissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662651371888817357noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170367279983065394.post-4264129336283433532010-10-12T18:37:00.000+01:002010-10-12T18:37:25.846+01:00couture cock-ups<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sometimes you just can't figure something out - no matter how blindingly obvious.</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I've just spent two days trying to figure out how to put a simple welt pocket on my <a href="http://www.peakprincess.co.uk/userimages/liberty-lined-denim-jacket-NEW%282151455%29.htm">new 'Hugo Alexander' Liberty lined boy's denim jacket </a>- those lovely tailored pocket openings with hidden interiors. </div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Yesterday I gave up and called Mum. She was a couture designer and has the added advantage of being a very modern mother who lives in the centre of London and loves email & texting. I sent a pic taken on my mobile of my total cock-up.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TLSatTr-siI/AAAAAAAAAoU/uUYMfTr_8KY/s1600/welt+pocket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TLSatTr-siI/AAAAAAAAAoU/uUYMfTr_8KY/s400/welt+pocket.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">PS In case you're wondering it helps if you sew the welt fabric on the right side and don't cut a letter box sized hole twice as wide as you were meant to!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">PPS In my defence I did figure out how to make a lovely placket cuff for my <a href="http://www.peakprincess.co.uk/userimages/liberty-print-shirts-NEW-AW10%281593613%29.htm">new 'Finley Oskar' Liberty print long-sleeve boy's shirt</a>.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TLScKYAX7uI/AAAAAAAAAoY/wj8N0C5or2I/s1600/IMG_3965.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TLScKYAX7uI/AAAAAAAAAoY/wj8N0C5or2I/s320/IMG_3965.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Lissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662651371888817357noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170367279983065394.post-5709714572512050342010-09-27T17:45:00.000+01:002010-09-27T17:45:02.292+01:00liberty prints for little people<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">When I quit radio producing and started Peak Princess two years ago I was only going to make clothes for baby girls. Demand from customers meant that grew to girls up to 9 years old...then boys...then ladies. Now even my husband's asking for a shirt.<br />
<br />
But there's something especially sweet about making clothes for babies. Today I've sent my<a href="http://www.peakprincess.co.uk/userimages/liberty-blouses-NEW-for-AW10%281524763%29.htm"> new Caty Beth pleat blouse</a> (in Liberty's Paulie Parrot print) to Hokkaido in Japan. This little<a href="http://www.peakprincess.co.uk/userimages/liberty-blouses-NEW-for-AW10%281524763%29.htm"> 'Freya Bean' long sleeve smock blouse</a> (in the last of my 'Capel' print) and <a href="http://www.peakprincess.co.uk/userimages/puff-sleeve-liberty-dress%281246991%29.htm">'Bella Luella' puff sleeve dress</a> are on their way to London.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Talking of London, <a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-1315432/Women-forced-work-longer-hours-thanks-ruining-families.html">Gaby Hinsliff's article in Daily Mail</a> (<i>Women being forced to work longer hours</i>) in today's Mail really made me reflect on how much our life has changed since leaving London three years ago. I had a wonderful time and was terribly lucky to have the chance to be a Radio 4 producer. I miss the people but not the hours. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
<img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TKDGfsVRgSI/AAAAAAAAAoI/pgZNu_vu50Q/s400/IMG_3869.jpg" width="297" /><span id="goog_1587157269"></span><span id="goog_1587157270"></span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TKDGhMA2VNI/AAAAAAAAAoM/qQFd5MdzAQM/s1600/IMG_3877.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TKDGhMA2VNI/AAAAAAAAAoM/qQFd5MdzAQM/s400/IMG_3877.jpg" width="296" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TKDGiQcW40I/AAAAAAAAAoQ/dPchojAltBY/s1600/IMG_3888.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TKDGiQcW40I/AAAAAAAAAoQ/dPchojAltBY/s400/IMG_3888.jpg" width="260" /></a></div>Lissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662651371888817357noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170367279983065394.post-89543942356119434482010-09-24T18:57:00.000+01:002010-09-24T18:57:55.488+01:00paisley liberty cushion covers<div style="text-align: center;">I'm quite green with envy. Suzi Everall entered <a href="http://www.daisygreenmagazine.co.uk/">Daisy Green</a> magazine's competition to win a pair of my new <a href="http://www.peakprincess.co.uk/userimages/liberty-print-cushion-covers%282029195%29.htm">handmade Liberty print tana lawn cushion covers</a> (£34.99 each for a pair).<br />
<br />
I've still not had time to make myself any so she was lucky I managed to overcome the temptation to keep them for myself!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">She chose a very sophisticated green paisley print called 'Mark' from <a href="http://www.peakprincess.co.uk/pick-your-liberty-print%282061418%29.htm">my stock of about fifty prints</a> which I teamed with cover buttons and bottle green velvet ribbon.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TJzl4a1-kcI/AAAAAAAAAn0/dFFHtXJ6Y_A/s1600/IMG_3802.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="243" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TJzl4a1-kcI/AAAAAAAAAn0/dFFHtXJ6Y_A/s320/IMG_3802.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TJzl6dM79eI/AAAAAAAAAn4/LalrSmcJ0u0/s1600/IMG_3812.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TJzl6dM79eI/AAAAAAAAAn4/LalrSmcJ0u0/s320/IMG_3812.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TJzl7qTSPZI/AAAAAAAAAn8/i87-VmrZVmY/s1600/IMG_3814.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TJzl7qTSPZI/AAAAAAAAAn8/i87-VmrZVmY/s320/IMG_3814.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TJzl9egsHUI/AAAAAAAAAoA/It5S73sVFUg/s1600/IMG_3817.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TJzl9egsHUI/AAAAAAAAAoA/It5S73sVFUg/s320/IMG_3817.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TJzl-4RUKCI/AAAAAAAAAoE/6CxDrd8ydwE/s1600/IMG_3819.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TJzl-4RUKCI/AAAAAAAAAoE/6CxDrd8ydwE/s320/IMG_3819.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Lissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662651371888817357noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170367279983065394.post-28655942678649630422010-09-18T12:36:00.000+01:002010-09-18T12:36:07.583+01:00The Lady<div style="text-align: center;">Well, I had thought life was complete yesterday when I got to interview Blue Peter's Janet Ellis for <a href="http://www.highpeakradio.co.uk/">High Peak Radio</a>*. But I've just seen this week's <a href="http://www.lady.co.uk/">The Lady magazine</a> and read Bibi Berki's lovely interview with me about women who've as she puts it <i>"bitten the bullet, packed in the job and set out on a re-balanced life where you decide what you do each day and make money at the end of it". </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TJSja1yXGiI/AAAAAAAAAnc/3--m2_JegA0/s1600/TheLadySept2010cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TJSja1yXGiI/AAAAAAAAAnc/3--m2_JegA0/s400/TheLadySept2010cover.jpg" width="282" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TJSjggRXrLI/AAAAAAAAAnk/Tt6t-tLuYPs/s1600/TheLadySept2010a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TJSjggRXrLI/AAAAAAAAAnk/Tt6t-tLuYPs/s400/TheLadySept2010a.jpg" width="282" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TJSjkjMImSI/AAAAAAAAAns/JQGGeNTF0V8/s1600/TheLadySept2010b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TJSjkjMImSI/AAAAAAAAAns/JQGGeNTF0V8/s400/TheLadySept2010b.jpg" width="282" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">It also features the terribly talented Angela Armsby who moved to Cairo and set up <a href="http://www.angelily.com/">Angelily</a> making the most gorgeous Egyptian cotton pyjamas which I live in (though I try to have enough discipline not to spend the day sewing in them!).</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">By the way, I'm terribly impressed with how tech-friendly The Lady are - you can download a digital copy for just £1 - it takes seconds.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">*For those who are wondering, in my former life I was a BBC Radio 4 producer and now I read the news for High Peak Radio when the news ed's busy with his weekly evening football programme. I think of myself as the "half-day, mid-week during the football season substitute".</span></div>Lissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662651371888817357noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170367279983065394.post-23877827891183830612010-09-08T18:52:00.000+01:002010-09-08T18:52:38.529+01:00fashionable add-ons<div style="text-align: center;">A double delight today...first UK Handmade featured an interview with me (see below) and then my copy of <a href="http://www.angelsandurchins.co.uk/">Angels and Urchins magazine</a> drops through the letter box with my new Liberty print hair accessories in the Fashion News. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Fabric designer Kate Yorke of Emily Pickle makes them for me. (She lives in the village down the road so I run down with Liberty offcuts and she cycles back up with gorgeous clips, bobbles, bracelets and bags).</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TIfLs9qIaEI/AAAAAAAAAm0/IYXeuF4G1QA/s1600/angelsurchinsAW10front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TIfLs9qIaEI/AAAAAAAAAm0/IYXeuF4G1QA/s320/angelsurchinsAW10front.jpg" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TIfLpwiQ4OI/AAAAAAAAAmk/bX92xVrjUPQ/s1600/angelsurchinsAW10-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TIfLpwiQ4OI/AAAAAAAAAmk/bX92xVrjUPQ/s320/angelsurchinsAW10-2.jpg" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TIfLsChN8VI/AAAAAAAAAms/6tBYn41Qe0U/s1600/angelsurchinsAW10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TIfLsChN8VI/AAAAAAAAAms/6tBYn41Qe0U/s320/angelsurchinsAW10.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
A&U's a must-read, even if you don't live in London. Editors Annie and Emily always make sure it's packed with great fashion and interesting articles. The summer edition had me giggling with their review of Brazilian waxing. This edition's got a great article on buying computer equipment for kids.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">And if you get impatient in-between the quarterly editions, then sign up for their colourful, inspiring <a href="http://www.angelsandurchins.co.uk/newsletter.php">weekly email newsletter.</a> I'm doubly impressed that a&u online ed Claire Gill's modelling maternity wear in the mag and looking fabulous.</div>Lissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662651371888817357noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170367279983065394.post-56615929801338000112010-09-08T10:05:00.001+01:002010-09-08T10:06:36.661+01:00farewell Millie, Sarah, Tracey, Poppy and Daisy<div style="text-align: center;">It's so sad when I get to the end of a roll of fabric. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">The upside is that Liberty of London supply me direct so every few months I have the great pleasure of receiving a box packed with beautiful new prints. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Over the past few weeks I've used the last of the beautiful red floral check Millie and the delicate Sarah's Secret Garden as well as the bold blue Poppy and Daisy. I have just enough of Millie and Poppy and Daisy for hair accessories but not enough for clothes. Tracey's a fabulous 50s style butterfly print that I picked up from the offcuts bin at Liberty just as I was starting out. She's going to a good home - cushion covers for my sister-in-law, Sophie.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TIdRTrhABzI/AAAAAAAAAmc/2McW0-i-ddo/s1600/poppyanddaisyblue.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TIdRTrhABzI/AAAAAAAAAmc/2McW0-i-ddo/s320/poppyanddaisyblue.JPG" width="290" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TIdRI-fZovI/AAAAAAAAAmE/A5e6Q8ltxHY/s1600/millie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TIdRI-fZovI/AAAAAAAAAmE/A5e6Q8ltxHY/s320/millie.jpg" width="306" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TIdRLrvUAlI/AAAAAAAAAmM/xn9BNjKWjqA/s1600/tracey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TIdRLrvUAlI/AAAAAAAAAmM/xn9BNjKWjqA/s320/tracey.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TIdRPQ9PweI/AAAAAAAAAmU/NV74bc5174M/s1600/sarahsecretgarden.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TIdRPQ9PweI/AAAAAAAAAmU/NV74bc5174M/s320/sarahsecretgarden.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">PS If you'd like to read more about Peak Princess and have a peek into my sewing room, read my interview with <a href="http://ukhandmade.blogspot.com/2010/09/meet-lissa-cook-of-peak-princess.html">UK Handmade</a>. </div>Lissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662651371888817357noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170367279983065394.post-47091130955958313042010-08-30T09:32:00.002+01:002010-08-30T09:34:10.655+01:00cosmo bride<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/THtsHDq3U_I/AAAAAAAAAl0/eT_VxT1tmrg/s1600/cosmobridecover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/THtsHDq3U_I/AAAAAAAAAl0/eT_VxT1tmrg/s320/cosmobridecover.jpg" /></a></div>I'm covered in paint after a traditional British bank holiday weekend of DIY. So it's a delight to see two of my <a href="http://www.peakprincess.co.uk/peak-princess-bridesmaids%281999967%29.htm">handmade Liberty print bridesmaid dresses</a> in the Fashion News of the <a href="http://www.youandyourwedding.co.uk/about/latest-issue-cosmo-bride-O-N">October/November issue of Cosmo Bride</a> (out now). <br />
<i><br />
"What's hot in the wedding world, right here, right now. Cutie Pie - We can't resist these handmade Liberty print flowergirl dresses from Peak Princess - choose from 30 prints."</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/THtrhlxOP-I/AAAAAAAAAlk/rZDbHnYlo5c/s1600/cosmobridesoct2010-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/THtrhlxOP-I/AAAAAAAAAlk/rZDbHnYlo5c/s320/cosmobridesoct2010-2.jpg" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/THtr2b6TxqI/AAAAAAAAAls/HkWoR33U2b8/s1600/cosmobridesoct2010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/THtr2b6TxqI/AAAAAAAAAls/HkWoR33U2b8/s320/cosmobridesoct2010.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
PS One more coat of paint and then I'm back in the sewing room to finish off the collection. (Do you think Vivienne Westwood does her own painting?)</div>Lissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662651371888817357noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170367279983065394.post-44846388801079608642010-08-25T20:42:00.000+01:002010-08-25T20:42:43.995+01:00kitten chaos<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/THVv17Om9pI/AAAAAAAAAlE/qZpQYZcmtkQ/s1600/IMG_0842.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/THVv17Om9pI/AAAAAAAAAlE/qZpQYZcmtkQ/s320/IMG_0842.jpg" /></a>Our lovely Norwegian Forest cat has returned or rather been returned. He disappeared for 3 weeks in May and was found at a farm in Chapel (2 miles away) only to disappear again last week when we went to the Lakes. This time we knew he'd gone back for a 'farm stay' stay break so we borrowed a cat trap from the lovely people at the <a href="http://www.windyway.org/">Windyway Trust animal rescue centre</a>. We've now tagged him so he's a proper ASBO cat. Next time he runs off hopefully we'll be able to hear his collar chip beep!<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, our London street cat, Mr Enos Knibbs has been taking part in a feline 'Who Do You Think You Are?' or rather, 'Who Do You Think You Are Named After?'. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Last week Alan Jackson got in touch because he's writing an article about the real Enos Knibbs for the <a href="http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.ancestry.com/%7Eknibbetc/page3c.htm">K/Nibb/S One Name Study</a> and was intrigued how we'd come across the name on my Peak Princess website.</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
Alan takes up the story on his website:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"A former BBC Radio 4 producer of 'The World at One', and 'PM' its sister programme</i> [me!], <i>'inherited' from a colleague a cat called Mr Knibbs, named after the Jamaican umpire <a href="http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.ancestry.com/%7Eknibbetc/page3c3.htm#EK">Enos KNIBBS</a>. Bloggers of the programmes were effusive when given the news that 'Mr Knibbs is tired of London life so <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/pm/2007/01/it_is_with_deep_and_profound_r.shtml">we're moving to the country</a> which means that with great sadness I have to hand in my notice as PM's Blog Editor'. <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/pm/2007/01/and_so_we_say.shtml">Eddie MAIR</a> (host of 'The PM Programme - Window on Your World') duly thanked her for her services. </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>One blogger, who heard an edition of the lunchtime programme on Valentine's Day 2007, posted increduously that the announcer had given a <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/pm/2007/02/alarming.shtml">production credit to none other than 'Enos Knibbs'</a>. </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>The original owners of the cat</i> [our friends Roger and Bibi Sawyer] h<i>ad heard the cricket commentator Jonathan AGNEW ('Aggers') talking about a notable Test Match in the West Indies. He ran through the teams and named the umpire. They decided then and there that their next animal would be called Enos Knibbs" </i><br />
<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/THVv81HBQUI/AAAAAAAAAlM/pNPuh_qJNfI/s1600/IMG_1007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/THVv81HBQUI/AAAAAAAAAlM/pNPuh_qJNfI/s320/IMG_1007.jpg" /></a><i> </i></div><div style="text-align: center;">(*In case you're wondering Otso is a Finnish Lapphund named after the Finnish Bear spirit.)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/THVx14eq8yI/AAAAAAAAAlU/YxzYWFvf8pk/s1600/IMG_1110.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/THVx14eq8yI/AAAAAAAAAlU/YxzYWFvf8pk/s320/IMG_1110.jpg" /></a></div>PS And this is Moses our older Finnish Lapphund<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/THVx4PFx0tI/AAAAAAAAAlc/qOncdBCcMfk/s1600/IMG_1006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/THVx4PFx0tI/AAAAAAAAAlc/qOncdBCcMfk/s320/IMG_1006.jpg" /></a></div></div>Lissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662651371888817357noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170367279983065394.post-68126684550122773672010-08-06T18:10:00.000+01:002010-08-06T18:10:59.844+01:00chic little babies<div style="text-align: center;">I've had an afternoon locked in my sewing room with my Mac. I'm in danger of getting RSI from uploading all <a href="http://www.peakprincess.co.uk/pick-your-liberty-print%282061418%29.htm">my lovely new Liberty prints</a> onto my website. So it was a lovely end to my day to meet a new customer, Caireen, who came to pick up two baby rompers in Millie and Fairford print, and then to discover that Maggie Westhead (Associate Shopping & Style editor of Time Out magazine, London) has featured my new autumn/winter designs on her <a href="http://chiclittlebaby.blogspot.com/2010/08/print-princess.html">Chic Little Baby blog</a>. <br />
<i><br />
Maggie says: "My life has changed in the most exciting way since giving birth to Evie last May. I have a book out called '101 Things to Buy Before You Die'. This summer, I officially launch my style blog for babies featuring quirky fashion, cool accessories and baby shopping events. Don't do motherhood without it!" </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TFxB5a9p7AI/AAAAAAAAAk8/2-Z9fceFpJk/s1600/chiclittlebabyBLOG.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="341" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TFxB5a9p7AI/AAAAAAAAAk8/2-Z9fceFpJk/s400/chiclittlebabyBLOG.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Lissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662651371888817357noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170367279983065394.post-70217027906820831142010-07-29T13:21:00.003+01:002010-07-29T13:25:02.375+01:00roll on autumn<div style="text-align: center;">I know it's still July but in my sewing room I'm dreaming of leaves turning golden-brown, conkers, roast chestnuts and dare I say it, even snow.</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">That's because I've been unfolding and rolling my gorgeous <b>new Liberty prints</b> and started my first design for autumn/winter 10/11. It's a pleated skirt based on a pattern my Mum used to make for me.<br />
It's called <b>'Amy Tallulah' </b>- like all my clothes, they are named after friends' children.<br />
I'll be making it silky soft tana lawn, poplin and cord - this is <b>'Pep'</b>. Orangey-red flowers on an almost black/navy background. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TFFxbIc5cUI/AAAAAAAAAkc/ES6AkG_OdW4/s1600/IMG_1991.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="292" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TFFxbIc5cUI/AAAAAAAAAkc/ES6AkG_OdW4/s400/IMG_1991.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TFFxdaZ2T2I/AAAAAAAAAkk/sYpt-w-VlnU/s1600/IMG_1992.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TFFxdaZ2T2I/AAAAAAAAAkk/sYpt-w-VlnU/s400/IMG_1992.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">The daisies are called <b>'Koharu and Miyuki' </b>in pretty and practical 'City Poplin'. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TFFxfNc_2SI/AAAAAAAAAks/DREGcsrrBXs/s1600/IMG_1993.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TFFxfNc_2SI/AAAAAAAAAks/DREGcsrrBXs/s320/IMG_1993.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TFFxgCtyjFI/AAAAAAAAAk0/j-6pe5gdXL4/s1600/IMG_1998.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TFFxgCtyjFI/AAAAAAAAAk0/j-6pe5gdXL4/s320/IMG_1998.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">I'll also be making it in snug & soft Kingly Cord.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Iron in the pleats for a formal preppy look or leave them soft for a floaty feel. You choose. </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Join my email newsletter list via <a href="http://www.peakprincess.co.uk/">my website</a> or email me (mail@peakprincess.co.uk) for preview samples which will be coming soon.</div>Lissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662651371888817357noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170367279983065394.post-30757396904736065162010-07-22T18:18:00.000+01:002010-07-22T18:18:57.806+01:00what I've sewn today<div style="text-align: center;">1) <a href="http://www.peakprincess.co.uk/userimages/liberty-print-pinafores%281247087%29.htm">Two Tilly Toadstool pinafores</a> - one in Liberty Mirabelle print (with satin bow-tie) & one in Liberty Millie print <br />
2) Two <a href="http://www.peakprincess.co.uk/userimages/liberty-smock-frock-NEW%281811794%29.htm">Megan Jane smock frocks</a> in Sarah's Secret Garden print<br />
3) halfway through a <a href="http://www.peakprincess.co.uk/userimages/liberty-print-skirts-NEW%281789682%29.htm">Lily May twirl skirt</a> in Sarah's Secret Garden print...<br />
4) big bag of <a href="http://www.peakprincess.co.uk/userimages/buy-liberty-offcuts%281599519%29.htm">Liberty print offcuts</a> to post to Quimper en France<br />
<br />
My sewing room was filled with loveliness until I had to pack them away to post to customers. Always a slightly wistful moment.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TEh8mPOfeLI/AAAAAAAAAkU/afWi25os2GQ/s1600/IMG_1971.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TEh8mPOfeLI/AAAAAAAAAkU/afWi25os2GQ/s400/IMG_1971.jpg" width="232" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TEh8JtU6pBI/AAAAAAAAAkM/_TZTyOdyLxM/s1600/IMG_1967.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xfBlcgmmlFs/TEh8JtU6pBI/AAAAAAAAAkM/_TZTyOdyLxM/s400/IMG_1967.jpg" width="226" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> PS The bow necessitated a panic phone call to Peak Princess' consultant (aka my Mum). For some reason, no matter how many I tie, I have bow dyslexia.</div>Lissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662651371888817357noreply@blogger.com0