Behind The Brand: POPKIT
What inspired you to start your business/brand?
As a designer, I’ve always believed that fashion should be an expression of creativity and individuality. When I saw how much time children spend in front of screens, I felt compelled to create something that would pull them back into hands-on, imaginative play. That’s when I started POPKIT, a mess-free, sustainable kit that empowers children to explore fashion design in a fun, engaging way. My own background in textiles, coupled with the inspiration I drew from growing up in a creative household, shaped the vision behind The Peel Off Print Co. My goal is to inspire children to embrace creativity and independence while fostering a sense of environmental responsibility.
What are your brand’s values?
At The Peel Off Print Co., our core values are creativity, sustainability, and independence. We believe every child has the potential to express themselves through fashion, and POPKIT is designed to unlock that creativity without the need for screens or mess. Sustainability is also at the heart of our brand. Our kits are produced locally in the UK, and we provide eco-friendly top-up packs to ensure that the fun can continue without adding waste. Lastly, we value independence, encouraging children to explore their unique style through hands-on design.
What is your biggest motivation?
My biggest motivation is seeing the excitement on children’s faces when they create something truly their own. I’m driven by the idea that POPKIT allows kids to turn their ideas into fashion while learning important skills like problem-solving, resilience, and self-expression. Seeing how much fun they have while developing confidence in their abilities keeps me going. I want to continue offering them innovative, sustainable ways to express themselves and stay away from screens.
Where did the inspiration for your product(s) come from?
The inspiration for POPKIT came from my desire to blend my love of fashion and design with something that could directly benefit children. I wanted to create a product that was not only fun but also educational, sparking kids' imaginations and teaching them about sustainability. I’ve always been passionate about working with bright colors and playful designs, and I wanted to share that joy of creation with the next generation of designers. My love for Millport—a place of freedom and creativity—also inspired the core ethos behind our kits.
What has been a highlight whilst creating and building your brand?
One of the most exciting moments was seeing our first product come to life and watching children interact with it for the first time. Their enthusiasm confirmed that we were onto something special. Another highlight was showcasing POPKIT at our first major trade show, where we received incredible feedback from both buyers and parents who saw the value in our product. It's been rewarding to watch our business grow while staying true to our mission of fostering creativity and sustainability.
What advice would you give to business owners, creators, designers, and brand owners just starting out?
I would tell anyone starting out in this industry to stay true to their vision and to persevere, even when challenges arise. It’s important to stay passionate about what you’re doing, especially in creative industries. Finding your unique voice and being consistent with your values will help you stand out. Surround yourself with a strong support network and always be open to learning along the way—there’s no such thing as a straight path to success.
At the Spring/Summer edition of Top Drawer, will you be launching any new collections, and if so, can you give us a sneak peek?
We’re incredibly excited to be launching new designs in our POPKIT range at the Spring/Summer edition of Top Drawer! These new kits will feature even more vibrant colorways and fresh, playful designs that continue our commitment to sustainability. We’ll also be showcasing our new “Pop Party” packs, which are perfect for group activities or special occasions, allowing multiple children to create their own fashion pieces together.
What is your personal favorite from your new collection?
I’m really proud of the new “Pop Party” pack. It takes everything that’s great about POPKIT and makes it a fun, collaborative experience for kids. It’s a joy to watch them work together, share ideas, and see how their creativity bounces off each other. It’s a true celebration of what our brand stands for—creativity, fun, and collaboration.
If applicable, how do you operate your brand sustainably?
Sustainability is at the core of everything we do at The Peel Off Print Co. Our products are manufactured in the UK, reducing our carbon footprint, and we use eco-friendly materials wherever possible. Our top-up packs allow kids to refresh their designs without needing to buy an entirely new kit, minimizing waste. Additionally, we encourage upcycling, as our kits are perfect for breathing new life into pre-loved clothing, promoting both creativity and responsible fashion choices.