The story began with founder Anne Kennedy, who had a simple but ingenious idea: print dressmaking pieces directly onto fabric, complete with clear, easy-to-follow instructions. By removing the complexity of traditional paper patterns, sewing became more accessible, more intuitive and far more enjoyable - and Clothkits was born.

By the late 1980s, Clothkits had grown into a thriving business, employing over 400 people at its Lewes headquarters. After a period of dormancy following a buyout by catalogue retailer Freemans, the brand returned to its Sussex roots in the late 2000s, revived with care and respect for its original spirit.

That revival took place under the direction of Kay Mawer, who has led Clothkits since 2007. With a background in Fine Art and a lifelong love of sewing, she helped bring the brand back into production, shaping it for modern makers while staying true to its heritage.

Today, Clothkits is a close-knit, women-led business with creativity at its heart. Everyone behind the scenes are makers themselves, and that shared experience shapes everything, from the kits and fabrics chosen to the advice offered to customers. Flexible, supportive ways of working have long been part of the Clothkits culture, reflecting the belief that creativity thrives when people are given space to balance work with everyday life.

While Clothkits is best known for its printed fabric kits, the collection has grown far beyond that original idea. The range now includes one of the largest selections of Liberty Fabrics, alongside carefully chosen dressmaking fabrics, haberdashery, yarn and tools - everything needed to sew a complete garment from start to finish. Dressmaking kits are also curated in collaboration with trusted independent designers, bringing together well-loved patterns and beautiful fabrics in thoughtfully assembled bundles.

Each kit is designed to make sewing feel achievable and rewarding, with everything included and clear instructions to guide the process from start to finish. The aim has always been to remove the guesswork while leaving room for creativity, whether tackling a first project or returning to a well-loved skill.

Alongside the online store, Clothkits has a welcoming bricks-and-mortar home in Chichester. The shop is a place to browse kits and fabrics, join workshops, and get friendly, practical advice from people who genuinely love to make. Everyone on the team brings their own creative experience, making guidance thoughtful, practical and grounded in real making.

From bold, timeless designs to carefully curated materials and expert support, Clothkits continues to champion sewing that feels calm, confidence-building and genuinely joyful - online and in store.